Red Seven: The Best Unbalanced Counting System

The Red Seven Count by Arnold Snyder is known as an easy, yet powerful, card counting strategy in blackjack. Unlike other counting systems, this one is an unbalanced system that will not go back to zero at the end of the deck. 

Though this system is not allowed in any modern casino, these are interesting pieces of information related to blackjack gameplay. Dive into this system by reading about the following points:

• What is the Red Seven Count?
• How Does It Work?
• Tips on Improving Your Red Seven Skills

What is the Red Seven Count?

Arnold Snyder’s Red Seven was published back in 1983 as the first unbalanced system. At the time, it was a controversial counting system, since it required minimal maths aside from the counting being done. Nowadays, it is widely accepted among counters as a system that is both easy and powerful.

‼️ The house will always have an edge. Players should never try to recover losses by gambling more. The outcome of the games is always entirely based on luck and chance.

How Does It Work?

In comparison to other card counting systems, the Red Seven system does not require a true count. Instead, players will only need to keep a running count going in their head, and adjust their bets accordingly. Thus, making this system an easy one to learn and use.

Red Seven Starting Counts

Unlike other systems, the Red Seven does not start at 0. Instead, the starting count must be adjusted depending on the number of decks in play:

Due to the adjustable starting count, the Red Seven system does not require a true count. This lessens the mental maths needed to use the system.

Red Seven Card Values

Similarly to other card counting systems, the Red Seven also assigns values to each card rank. You will need to keep track of these values as they are dealt to be able to keep the running count going. The values of the cards are as follows:

The Red Seven is a unique system in that it assigns different values to red 7’s and black 7’s. This slight change is what makes the system unbalanced, thus not needing a true count.

Pivot Point

Due to the unbalanced nature of the Red Seven, you will need to be aware of the so-called pivot point. This is the point where players may increase their bets. 

Since the Red Seven does not start at 0, the pivot point of the system is when the running count reaches positive numbers. When this occurs, you may increase your bets accordingly. Those who use the Red Seven count may also use the running count as the betting multiplier.

Tips on Improving Your Red Seven Skills

While the Red Seven is an easy card counting system to learn and use, card counting in itself is a skill. Here are some of our tips that you may follow to improve this skill:

1. Memorise the card values.
2. Practice with real decks of cards and keep a running count as you deal each card.
3. Gradually, you may practice counting cards in groups by dealing the cards face-down and flipping over two or three at a time.
4. Simulate real casino conditions, such as adding background noise or distractions.
5. Play in a friendly blackjack game, practicing your card counting as you play.

As you build your confidence through practice, you may eventually play in a real casino with a professional live dealer. When doing so, make sure to keep your counting discreet, as this is not encouraged in any casino.

What Do You Think of the Red Seven?

The Red Seven is a great system for beginners to try, or even for veterans looking for something simple and new. With its unique unbalanced approach to card counting and easy-to-understand mechanics, this system is truly a must-try!

While card counting systems do not guarantee any wins, especially in a real casino game, these are ways to add more challenge and excitement to your typical blackjack sessions.

‼️ The house will always have an edge. Players should never try to recover losses by gambling more. The outcome of the games is always entirely based on luck and chance.