Playing rated for comps - Possible or not?

[Midnight]

Hi Guys,
I am a new aspiring AP who is looking to make my inaugural trip to a Casino to actually play Blackjack after about 5 months of training on CV Blackjack. The casino that I’m targeting is the one closest to my home so I want to be able to play there indefinitely and therefore would like to play in a way as to draw minimal heat. This casino offers amazing comps that I would like to exploit which means playing rated. Is this possible to do while spreading 1-16. Or would a spread like this large be sure to result in a backoff or worse. I am trying to gauge whether I should just play unrated or maximize my time there by using heavy cover during negative counts (I plan to play all) and using my full spread once the count calls for a max bet. Another reason I’m considering playing rated is that unrated players are only allowed to play one spot in this casino while rated players have the privilege of playing up to three spots. When I use CVCX to estimate what my win rate would be, playing two hands is definitely the better choice. Would appreciate advice from experienced APs or experts on how you handle this type of scenario. Thanks in advance.

[Intermediate]

If you really want to be able to visit your nearest local casino for a long time and enjoy comps, don’t be counting and using a 1-16 spread. Maybe keep it to 1-4 and don’t have any expectations of making any money. You can use the play for developing your counting and comportment but keep your spread to a minimum. The disadvantage is you won’t be able to practice the bigger spread and getting the big bets out there when the count is high. Once they know your name and they decide they don’t want your action, forget about the comps.

[Freightman]

a new aspiring AP should not be spreading one to 16 before they have been properly seasoned. It’s a recipe for disaster for a number of reasons.

[moo321]

If your primary goal is comps, play a little less aggressively. Either a lower spread, or some betting cover. A 1-8 spread with an occasional wongout is still a decent game, and it's hard to get backed off a shoe for that. Not impossible, but hard.

Just as important, learn how to play the comp game. Bet more when you're getting rated, and when the floor is watching. Bet less when they walk away. Buy in a little heavy so you look like a bigger customer.

[Midnight]

Okay, thanks for the tips guys. Very helpful information and will follow the advice when I visit the casino next visit.