Ace and Jack of Spades cards

All existing varieties of blackjack can be divided into two major categories. In English, they are called pitch blackjack and shoe blackjack. The word "shoe" is known to all blackjack fans, but the "pitch" can amuse beginners. The reason is that it is pretty rare, although it denotes a widespread concept. 

Shoe Blackjack and Pitch Blackjack

In general, the topic is simple.

  1. The more common versions worldwide fall under the definition of the shoe blackjack. In most casinos, blackjack is played with six or eight decks using a device known as the shoe. It is a shoe blackjack. It makes no sense to explain the basic rules. We hope you know them.
  2. A pitch blackjack is a variant with one or two decks held by the dealer. Many casinos do not offer it to everyone, only in the VIP halls where high rollers play.

But I do not think these are the only differences between the two varieties of blackjack. Some other peculiarities are more critical than the aspects mentioned above.

First, card dealing and handling principles in these games are fundamentally different.

  1. In the pitch version, a player gets two cards face-down. It means the dealer and other players at the table do not see them.
  2. In the shoe blackjack, all cards are dealt face-up. Everybody can see them.

What does it mean?

  • In the pitch variant, players can touch the cards.
  • In the shoe type, it is strictly prohibited.

The rules of touching cards are also strictly regulated. For example, you can not hold them with both hands at the table or take them out of sight of the dealer.

Giving Signals to the Dealer

Anything a player at the table for shoe blackjack can do is give voice signals to the dealer or make unique gestures. The player may not take the cards over and even touch them. All large casinos require players to use gestures that are recorded on video to help in resolving disputes.

The pitch version also has signal gestures, but they may differ from those in the game with a shoe. For example, if you touch a card on the table, it means you want to hit a card. The same in the game with a shoe is knocking fingers on the table next to the cards. Knowing these features is extremely important to avoid misinterpretation of your gestures.

Other Specific Rules

Other differences in blackjack rules are beyond the scope of these categories and can be found in both versions. Also, do not forget that not all kinds of games with one or two decks are conducted strictly by pitch principles. Sometimes you can find games where cards are dealt open but without a shoe.

Of course, you must choose this variant if the other rules are the same. Sitting at the table with several participants allows for seeing more cards and making more accurate decisions, especially if you are on the last box.

Online casinos offer many types of blackjack, so you can choose the one you prefer the most.

Frequently asked Questions

❓ What is a shoe blackjack?

Shoe blackjack is a version with a special device known as the shoe. The croupier puts decks in the shoe and uses it to deal the cards to players.

📃 What is a pitch blackjack?

Pitch blackjack is a type of game without the shoe. The dealer holds one or two decks in his hand. There are also other specific rules. 

Do online casinos offer pitch blackjack?

Some software providers have released pitch blackjacks, but these games are less common than shoe blackjack at internet casinos.

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