The 2-1-2 Blackjack Betting System
The 2-1-2 blackjack strategy (also known as the Manhattan strategy) is a betting system that can be used for not only blackjack but also baccarat, roulette and some other casino games. The blackjack betting strategy, 2-1-2, is considered one of the more low-risk betting systems, as it requires slowly increasing each bet post-win. In this way, players can try without risking too much of their bankroll. Although it is one of the lower-risk approaches to use when playing blackjack or other casino games, keep in mind that it doesn’t guarantee a win.
In this guide, we explore how the betting system works, how to put it into practice, and its potential benefits and drawbacks.
How does the 2-1-2 betting system work?
Background knowledge is essential when trying to understand how it works. The name is derived from the particular betting pattern that is used. You begin by betting two units, then one after your first win, and then another two every time you win. Once you have passed the third win, you build momentum by increasing your bet by one unit after each win.
Should you lose, you begin again with two units, followed by one, followed by two. You are essentially increasing your bet amounts at specific points.
The blackjack betting strategy 2 1 2 is most effective when used in games that have even-money bets, such as roulette and blackjack. These bets are more stable than other wagers, which may be higher but come with a bigger risk.
When using the 2 1 2 blackjack strategy, the first thing that must be done is to decide the size of your bankroll. This is done by calculating what you can afford to potentially lose. Once that is done, you must determine your unit size – i.e., how much you will wager with each bet. Many players use the game’s minimum bet as a benchmark for their unit size. So, if the game’s minimum bet is £1.00, your unit size will be £1.00.
Another option would be to base your unit size on a percentage of your bankroll. For example, if you have a £1,000 bankroll, you may decide on 1% as a single unit, which would be £10.
Once you have decided on your bankroll amount and the approach you are going to use, these are the steps mentioned above, summarised, that you need to follow:
- Your first wager should be two units.
- After your first win, you move down to one unit.
- Once you have won for a second consecutive time, increase to two units.
- For every win after that, increase the bet by one unit (e.g., four units after four wins).
Any loss means that the 212 blackjack strategy begins again, starting with your first wager of two units. So, even if you win your first wager of two units but lose the second one of one unit, you have to then start again at two.
The 2-1-2 betting system in practice
Seeing the 2 1 2 blackjack strategy illustrated with real-world examples is always helpful, even if this particular system is a relatively simple one. Here is an example using a unit size of £5:
| Units and Bet | Outcome | Loss and Winnings |
|---|---|---|
| (2) and £10 | Lost | -£10 |
| (2) and £10 | Won | £0 |
| (1) and £5 | Won | £5 |
| (2) and £10 | Lost | -£5 |
| (2) and £10 | Lost | -£15 |
| (2) and £10 | Won | -£5 |
| (1) and £5 | Won | £0 |
| (2) and £10 | Won | £10 |
| (3) and £15 | Won | £25 |
| (4) and £25 | Won | £45 |
| (5) and £25 | Lost | £25 |
Advantages of the 2-1-2 betting system
The above example shows how the blackjack betting strategy 2-1-2 could work in a real live casino game. Here are some other advantages associated with this betting system:
- It is simple to understand and apply once you get the hang of it.
- There is less risk when compared to other betting strategies.
- It is less volatile than other well-known systems such as Martingale and Paroli.
Disadvantages of the 2-1-2 betting system
The above example shows how the 212 betting system would work in a perfect world, but we know that betting on casino games is not predictable or perfect. So, let’s take a look at some of the drawbacks of the 2 1 2 blackjack strategy:
- Most betting systems require one unit, whereas two are required for your initial bet.
- It is complicated to apply this system to blackjack splits and double downs.
- Increased wagers mean that it is difficult to bank any wins.
- Although easy once understood, learning the method takes some time.