What Happens If You Get 5 Cards in Blackjack

Blackjack is a game of strategy and luck, and one of the most exciting moments in the game is when you’re one card away from a “five-card charlie” – getting five cards in your hand without going over 21. But actually what happens if you get 5 cards in blackjack? Let’s find out.

The Legend of the Five-Card Charlie

In blackjack folklore, the five-card charlie is a mythical beast. Some players believe that it’s the holy grail of the game, while others think it’s an urban legend. But regardless of what you believe, there’s no denying that getting five cards in your hand without going bust is a rare and impressive feat. If you do manage to pull it off, you will simply win and that is it.

The Rules for a Five-Card Charlie

If you do manage to get five cards in your hand without going bust, you’ll automatically win the hand, regardless of the dealer’s hand. This is because the rules of blackjack dictate that the dealer must hit on any hand that totals 16 or less, and if you have five cards without going over 21, it’s unlikely that the dealer will be able to beat your hand.

The Odds of Getting a Five-Card Charlie

As with any hand in blackjack, the odds of getting a five-card charlie depend on a variety of factors, including the cards in your hand and the dealers up card. According to basic strategy, the odds of getting a five-card charlie are around 1 in 20,000, which makes it a pretty rare occurrence. However, if you’re playing with a liberal set of rules (such as a casino that allows you to hit on a soft 17), your odds of getting a five-card charlie might be slightly higher.

The Perks of a Five-Card Charlie

Aside from the obvious thrill of winning the hand, there are a few other perks to getting a five-card charlie.

The Glory of Victory

Let’s face it: getting a five-card charlie is a pretty impressive feat. You’ll likely be the envy of the table, and other players might even ask to take a photo with you (or, at the very least, ask you how you managed to pull it off).

The Potential for a Big Payout

Depending on the size of your bet and the specific rules of the game, a five-card charlie can lead to a pretty sizable payout. For example, if you bet $10 and get a five-card charlie, you might win $50 or more, depending on the rules of the game.

Conclusion: What Happens If You Get 5 Cards in Blackjack

While it’s certainly not a common occurrence, getting a five-card charlie in blackjack can be an exciting and lucrative experience. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual player, it’s always worth shooting for the moon – you never know when lady luck might smile upon you.