Update
Thought I would give an update.
As far as books go, I have read (and reread some of):
"Professional BJ" Wong
"BJ Bluebook II" Renzey
"BJ Blueprint" Blaine
"Blackjack for Blood" Carlson
"Big Book of BJ" Snyder
"Blackbelt in BJ" Snyder
"Blackjack Attack" Schlesinger
They are all great in different ways. One thing to keep in mind is they each (some) promote different systems. It is good to get familiar with the different systems and keep an open mind. I started with HiLo and after all my readings I may start with Mentor as it looks like a good trade off for increased EV with minimal effort. (Renzey does a good mentor intro in Bluebook)
For a noob I would recommend the reading in this order:
1)
Big Book of BJ - it gives a great overview of the game and its history
2)
BJ Bluebook II- It is very simple and makes the theory of advantage play easy to understand, and a good basis for basic strategy.
3)
Blackjack for Blood- very easy to read and informative
4)
Blackjack Blueprint - I read this one 2x's. it has a lot of great learning drills and is full of practical info.
5)
Blackbelt in BJ- another great Snyder book
6)
Professional BJ- a must have. I constantly refer to it when drilling
7)
BJ Attack- wow, some heavy reading. All the math u could want to explain it all/everything BJ
I would also read the sticky info
here and
here.
I have played a ton (~25 days) since I started this thread. At first I just played BS and got familiar with the casino environment. I then started working on counting while talking to dealers and PB's and watching tv. (good camo) whenever I am about to see a PB look my way I look up at the TV to look into the game etc. I now can play perfect BS and keep a count and use at least 20 indices for HiLo. At first I lost money playing at a Dis.Adv. but turned it around and am now in the black. The only drawback to all the real practice is the exposure I have gotten.
I have been playing mostly SD and It is way easier keeping a count than 6D. In 6D if you lose count it is costly waiting for a new shoe. I bought a shoe and discard tray and practice with it in anticipation of playing 6D.
My advice to others wanting to get into Counting. Don't.
The environment is deteriorating for successful counters.
I did it cuz I am single and do not party anymore, I quit daytrading, I live near casinos I go to anyway, I am a dreamer.
I will stay with it but have no illusions of being able to do it full time.
Happy counting,
War