Blackjack is a very popular casino game due to the array of strategy and chance. Most casinos also have thrilling side stakes in addition to the game, so as to ensure things are even more thrilling. The “5-Card Charlie” side bet is one of them. In case you have never heard about it before, you might be asking: What is it, how does it work, and is it worth this additional risk?
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the 5-Card Charlie side wager, so you can decide whether it’s a smart move when playing on 22Bet.
What Is a 5-Card Charlie in Blackjack?
A 5-Card Charlie is an optional rule that pays a participant who draws five or more cards without busting (exceeding 21). In blackjack, the aim is normally to come as near to 21 as possible without going over it. Through this extra nuance, you still win even when your hand fails to outstrip that of the dealer with five (or sometimes six or seven) cards.
How Does the 5-Card Charlie Side Bet Work?
Not all casinos offer this rule, but when they do, it usually works like this:
- You place a side bet before the hand begins (usually a small fixed amount).
- You play the hand normally, hitting or standing based on your strategy.
- If you end up with five (or more) cards without busting, you win the side bet… even if the dealer has a better hand.
The payout varies by casino, but a common structure is:
- 5-Card Charlie: Pays 2:1 or 3:1
- 6-Card Charlie: Pays 5:1 or 10:1
- 7-Card Charlie (very rare): Pays 25:1 or more
The Odds of Hitting a 5-Card Charlie
Now, the big question: How likely are you to actually get a 5-Card Charlie?
The odds depend on how you play. If you hit aggressively on weak hands, your chances increase… but so does your risk of busting. Statistically, the probability of getting five cards without busting is around 1.5% to 2%. That means you’ll hit it roughly once every 50 to 70 hands.
If the casino only pays 2:1 for a 5-Card Charlie, the house edge is quite high, often over 10%. This is much worse than standard blackjack.
Should You Take the 5-Card Charlie Side Bet?
The question of whether or not this side stake is worth it ultimately lies with you and how much risk you are able to take on. On the one hand, it introduces additional thrill. Most casinos restrict these bets to modestly large sums (generally between one and five dollars), so the monetary cost to lose is minimal. Also, the probability of someone obtaining a 6- or 7-Card Charlie is tempting, though unlikely, and could lead to a rather nice reward.
Nevertheless, the infrequency of wins can allow you to experience a dozen or more hands with no payoff. By chasing Charlie’s, you may abandon a sound blackjack method and reduce your odds in the primary game. In a nutshell, it may provide temporary excitement, but it is very hazardous to anyone interested in long-term success.