Hard 18 vs Dealer 7
Basic strategy says stand. Here's what the math looks like across common rule sets.
Want to see this play out across 100,000 hands?
Configure the exact rules and bet spread in the simulator.
Run Simulation → Configure the exact rules and bet spread in the simulator.
Why Stand Is Correct
Hard 18 stands against every dealer upcard — the cost of drawing a bust card outweighs the handful of improving cards that could get you to 18+. Let the dealer work for it against 7.
How the Play Changes Under Different Rules
The correct play is consistent across every common rule set for this hand.
| Rule Set | Best Play |
|---|---|
| 6-deck · H17 · no surrender | Stand |