1-3-2-6 Betting System
| Updated: 1-3-2-6 Betting System – One of the Less Risky Blackjack Strategies
If you have discovered the thrill of influencing the outcome of blackjack by utilizing a strategy, you are probably on the lookout for the best betting systems to follow. It is true that the game of 21 allows players to reduce the house edge whenever they make optimal moves. Nowadays, the majority of seasoned blackjack players rely on the basic strategy to achieve optimal results in almost any variation of the card game.
While the basic blackjack strategy will help you make the correct decision whenever you are dealt a tricky hand, there are also betting systems that recommend how much you should stake on each round. One such technique is the 1-3-2-6 betting progression. While this system is easy to master and is among the less risky progressions for determining your bet size, it has no effect on the house edge. To help you decide whether it is worth adopting the 1-3-2-6 betting system during your blackjack sessions, we recommend that you keep reading.
1-3-2-6 Betting System Overview
The 1-3-2-6 betting system is a relatively simple strategy to follow, even though it may initially appear rather complicated. It is suitable for all types of players, regardless of their experience or gaming style, as all it takes to apply it properly is to learn its pattern and principles. As its name indicates, the main idea of this system is to bet 1, 3, 2, and 6 units in sequence and, in this way, make a profit by capitalizing on winning streaks. It closely resembles another popular betting system – the Paroli – which is also based on the assumption that players can win four times in a row. Another similarity the two systems share is that each consists of a betting cycle that is completed at a certain point.
For instance, if players lose three bets, they should start again from the beginning, wager one unit, and continue to do so until they get lucky and win. Every time they lose, they should restart the betting sequence to apply the system correctly. The same applies after they place the last betting unit; once the game cycle is completed, they must start over.
How it Works
Just like the Paroli strategy, the 1-3-2-6 betting system is based on a positive progression, meaning that players need to increase the size of their bet every time they win. Before playing, they must decide the exact amount that will represent one betting unit. To do so, players should take into account their available bankroll and the table’s betting limits. They should also remember that the initial betting unit is the minimum amount they will have to wager each time the betting cycle is complete or whenever there is a loss. Whenever they place a bet and win, they must adjust their next wager according to the 1-3-2-6 sequence.
For example, let’s assume that one unit equals $5. The initial bet is $5; if they win, the second bet should be $15. If they win again, the third wager should be $10, and the fourth one $30. After that, the game cycle is completed, and players should start again from the beginning, placing a $5 bet on the next round. This system is especially effective for bets that pay even money, which is why it is used in so many table games. To make it work, players should adhere to its simple rules throughout the entire session.
| Blackjack The 1-3-2-6 Betting System | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Bet Sequence | Bet Size | Hand Outcome | Net Winnings |
| 1 | 5 | LOSS | -5 |
| 1 | 5 | WIN | 0 |
| 1-3 | 15 | LOSS | -15 |
| 1 | 5 | LOSS | -20 |
| 1 | 5 | WIN | -15 |
| 1-3 | 15 | WIN | 0 |
| 1-3-2 | 10 | WIN | +10 |
| 1-3-2-6 | 30 | WIN | +40 |
The betting system has proven to be very efficient.
Possible Results
To draw a final conclusion about whether this system is truly beneficial, let’s examine its possible outcomes. The 1-3-2-6 betting system has a very short betting cycle, which is why it is fairly easy to predict the consequences that might occur during the game. If players place their first bet of $5 and lose the hand, their total loss will be this single betting unit. If they win the first bet but lose the second one, they will lose two betting units.
If they win the first two bets but lose the third wager, they finish with a gain of two betting units. In case they win the first three bets but lose the fourth wager, they will break even. The best-case scenario is when players win all four bets, as this way they make a profit of 12 units. Therefore, because there are only two losing outcomes, it can be concluded that this system is indeed efficient.
Pros & Cons of 1-3-2-6 Betting System
When it comes to blackjack, the 1-3-2-6 betting system can be very beneficial. If applied properly, it can help players reduce their losses significantly, ultimately allowing them to play for much longer. Thanks to this strategy, they can manage their funds better and make wiser betting choices. Another significant advantage is that it is fairly easy to learn, making it suitable for all types of blackjack players. It prevents gamblers from chasing losses because they don’t have to increase their wagers when they are losing continuously. Furthermore, after four consecutive wins, the betting cycle is completed, and players should start from the beginning and wager one unit. Thus, even in the worst-case scenario, they will be able to retain a small profit.
However, this betting system also has some drawbacks that should be considered. Perhaps one of its biggest disadvantages is the fact that it doesn’t help players reduce the house edge in any way. Even though blackjack has a moderately low built-in house edge, it is still enough to prevent players from consistently winning, which is the reason casinos offer the game in the first place. Another point worth discussing is that the fourth bet must be increased to six times the initial amount, which carries a significant level of risk.
Conclusion
The 1-3-2-6 betting system has proven to be quite efficient, as it prevents players from losing a substantial amount of money. Many blackjack enthusiasts use it to make wiser betting choices and increase their chances of winning more. It is easy to implement and can indeed help players boost their winnings. However, because this system doesn’t decrease the house edge in any way, it is not recommended for more serious players who want to improve every aspect of their game.
FAQ: 1-3-2-6 Betting System in Blackjack
The 1-3-2-6 betting system involves following a specific betting sequence after each win: bet one unit, win and bet three units, win and bet two units, and finally, win and bet six units. If you lose at any point, you restart at one unit. This system aims to capitalize on winning streaks while minimizing losses.
No, the 1-3-2-6 betting system does not affect the house edge in blackjack. It’s a betting strategy that manages how you bet, not how you play the game. Your chances of winning or losing each hand remain the same, based on the game’s rules and your playing strategy.
Yes, the 1-3-2-6 system is simple enough to be used by players of all levels, making it applicable to both beginners and experienced gamblers. It’s easy to learn and apply, making it suitable for those looking for a structured way to manage their bets. However, players should be mindful of their bankroll and set limits to avoid significant losses.
The main risk involves the potential to lose significant amounts when reaching the higher bets in the sequence, especially if a loss occurs at the fourth bet. While the system is designed to capitalize on winning streaks, there’s no guarantee these streaks will happen, and losses can accumulate.
When using the 1-3-2-6 betting system, start with a base unit that is a small percentage of your total bankroll to mitigate risk. Be prepared to adjust your betting unit based on the success or failure of your sessions, and always have a clear limit for wins and losses to ensure responsible gambling.