Recent content by Sam Bench

I count using the simple Hi-Opt I system. I have used this counting system many times and am now very comfortable keeping track of the running count and varying my bets accordingly. I have been playing my hands using basic strategy. I am now ready to move to the next level and vary how I...

Extremely Slow Play -- Incompetent Dealers I spent a day at Mountaineer earlier this week. The game is identical to Atlantic City with 8-deck shoes. The play is extremely slow. I never appreciated Vegas or Laughlin dealers before. The dealers make each round take forever. The lay each...

Thanks, Farook, and good luck. I live about 2 hours away and will likely visit in the next week or 2. I figured that they would have 6 deck shoes since there is no competition close by. It wouldn't even surprise me if they use continuous shufflers. I am spoiled since I have recently been to...

The Mountaineer in West Virginia will start blackjack on Dec 20. Does anyone have any idea what types of games they will have? Nothing specific on their web site. Thanks.

I will be visiting Harrah's Grand in Tunica next month. I haven't been there for about 3 years. What are the playing conditions like? I enjoy double deck games with modest minimums. Thanks in advance.

Dealers I like dealers who are very competent, deal at a nice pace, and keep their mouths shut!! I hate it when a dealers slows the game to make small talk with some ploppy. Some dealer think they are amateur comedians and babble continuously. Also, I hate it when I'm asked "Where are you...

I just got back from a 4 day trip and learned a new trick. I spent lots of time playing double deck heads-up against the dealer. I pretended that I was big time superstitious. I kept saying things like "I have a hunch that a 9 is coming", etc. When the count on a given deck got sufficiently...

Laughlin I just got home from a 4 day trip to Laughlin. I found very nice double deck games at Harrahs ($15 min) and Aquarius ($5 min). I really enjoy Laughlin. It is my favorite place to play. It sure beats the 8 deck shoes at Atlantic City!!

I will be visiting Laughlin from next Tuesday, May 22 through Saturday. Where are the best playing conditions in Laughlin? I like single and double deck. Easier to count!! Thanks.