I've been practicing counting for almost a year now and I'm about to start playing in casinos. I have about 4 or 5 casinos in my immediate area (less than 40 minute drive). Does anyone have any tips on how to increase longevity at these local casinos while I try to build my bankroll in to something more substantial? I plan on traveling sooner or later, but would like to build my bankroll and play many quality hours locally to gain experience and confidence.
At local casinos, about the same number as yours, I lasted 5 years ((now I play at two of those after a long break and anonymously) and I played with a Players Card. If you get a players card (and most generally recommend you don’t), there are a few things you should do. I am of the opinion that as a newbie, it’s ok to use a Players Card. Some here have not played with a Players Card in decades or never and have no clue of the benefits of it. One, there is palpably less scrutiny when you use one. Two, often, after a losing session, I could ask for a comp and take dinner home to family. Three, I got and still get comped rooms in Las Vegas and other places. However, when traveling, I use a Players Card judiciously. Many use a Players Card with one chain for the comps, play anonymous at other casinos and that is an option too.
First, use smaller spreads. Second, short sessions of an hour or less. Third, regularly book losing sessions. This does not mean intentionally losing but sometimes quitting when behind (instead of playing till you get even or win, it’s not easy for newbies to quit when slightly behind), keep win/loss session ratio close to 50%. Fourth, use only SOME ratholing of a few red chips. Fifth, if winning, leave at dealer changes. When new dealer is approaching, put away some chips, color up (Pit May come when dealer announces amount) when new dealer starts. Pit will note down the amount of color up. At cashier, color up with just that amount, go to coffee shop or take a stroll, walk in and color up the rest. Sixth, request your win/loss record at the Players Club desk from time to time.
There me may be others.
I have one local store that I have played for over 25 years without being backed-off. Many of the current pit critters were break-in dealers back then. Most of the critters who were also dealers know that I can count. I never abuse the privilege of playing there. I play a friendly spread, mostly red chip, and limit my time on any one shift. My wife likes to stay there, so I make sure to keep on friendly terms with the pit, dealers, CW and hosts. I made lots of money from this store in the early years, mostly because of poorly trained staff. In the later years, I have hardly played at all, but I keep playing a little to keep the mailers coming, and make my profit from RFB and free play in the mailers instead of at the tables now.
I only have one casino that’s relatively local, but it’s a unicorn. 6 deck, S17, DAS, LS, >83% pen, and I’ve been mispayed an average of once per trip (mainly by the same dealer who I tend to follow around). I have been going there a couple months now after several months of practicing at home and am up significantly. I usually go once a week, play for 3-4 hours spreading $10-$100, then I split and I never use a player’s card. I’m glad this topic has been brought up and I’m eager to see anyone’s responses/ideas.
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Originally Posted by PinkChip
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