Introduction and question about REKO vs Hi-Lo

Hi Folks,

First, thanks to all the great contributors here who have an incredible amount of knowledge and are willing to share it here. A great site.

As a matter of introduction, I'm a long time player (blackjack, that is), have used Hi-Lo exclusively, and am considering a move to REKO based on its apparent relative simplicity.

I play 6d games almost exclusively, where the rules are S17 with no surrender unless I hit the occasional $25 games in the high limit rooms of some stores that I frequent, in which case there are occasional H17 games available. I understand $25 isn't exactly whale territory, but also understand the bankroll requirements at such a bet level. I have a good bankroll and it is replenishable, although obviously I'd prefer not to have to. I also understand the extreme importance of penetration and usually can find acceptable games in that respect.

Basic strategy is no issue - got it. Index plays are admittedly a challenge to me and I'll say I need to practice that area more aggresively. Thus the appeal of the simplified index structure of REKO.

My results are typical - good days and bad days. I'll admit that I do enjoy the social and "fun" aspects of the game and am not superhuman - I am fully capable of losing the count should a smokin' hot waitress saunter by. There, I said it.

A question about REKO: Since the starting count is -20, how do you guys approach the early shoe? It would be difficult and possibly obvious to just sit there and await the necessary count in order to jump in. MSE is not a problem, but tables are usually busy and just hanging out at a seat could be an issue.

Very interested in your thoughts and comments. And thanks again for such a knowledgeable group!
 

blackjacktilt

Well-Known Member
I'm not familiar with REKO....
If you already know Hi/Lo, move on to KO or Hi-Opt.
This REKO sounds a little silly to me, but I'm just a plain Hi/Lo guy.
Good Luck
 

southAP

Well-Known Member
If you look at the structure of the Hi/lo index plays you find that some have patterns and stick with the same few numbers especially if they indexes you play are floored. By patters i'll give you an example
splitting 10s vs 4,5,6 if you look at that sequence in reverse 6,5,4 those are your index plays. so 4=+6, 5=+5, 6=+4. If you look at the index charts like this, it will be much easier to remember them. There are also a bunch like 16v 10 and 12v4 that have a very low index play so the count only needs to be a little in either direction to remember to play it.

Another suggestion is to get a set of indices and write them on flash cards and go through them for about an hour a day. After about a week you will find yourself starting to recall them with little effort.

There really is no need to change counting strategies if you have one down solid. The only time I would suggest learning a new one is if you get into a situation where the discards arent able to be seen and you have no way to get a true count, then switch to another system that doesnt require the conversion like KO.
Hope this helps

-south
 
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