V Procedures for Team Tripsgreenspun.com : LUSENET : Team NT : One Thread |
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-- Anonymous, October 18, 1999
Check in with Team Manager or Assistant Manager upon arrival or commence play in accordance with a pre-arranged schedule if so authorized.
Prior to each trip, players will be given an assignment of casinos to play in and an order in which to play them based on player availability. Do not deviate from this order, as, at times, we wish to avoid having more than one team member in the same casino at the same. If you wish to modify this schedule, please check with management beforehand.
Confirm investment amount to team bank, having funds verified by another team member. If you have been authorized to commence play prior to the initial team meeting, this verification can be performed at the first formal meeting.
Receive any changes to assignments and review signals (if applicable).
-- Anonymous, October 18, 1999
Enter casino at scheduled time. Be punctual. If you are involved in a Counter/BP style play, locate teammate(s) and ensure teammate(s) is aware of your presence.
While in a casino, devote your time to actively playing, back-counting, observing conditions and gathering valuable information. If you are a solo style player or BP, chatting with Pit Staff, Hosts and Cashiers is considered time well spent.
A session bankroll will be defined at the start of a trip. Following each daily meeting, you will be given two session bankrolls, unless circumstances dictate otherwise. If you are in possession of more than two session bankrolls, carry it with you separate from your playing money; do not consider it available for play until management instructs you otherwise.
Keep your team money separate from your personal money. Keep these two session bankrolls separate from one another. You don't want to lose both of them at one table.
Utilize Stop/Loss Practices by ending sessions in the event of loss of a session bankroll, as defined for the given trip.
Dip into a second bankroll at the same table after a session bankroll loss only if:
- 1. you need more money to make a correct play (split, double or insurance), or
- 2. the count is still high and the shoe is not over.
It is thus possible to lose more than one session bankroll at a table given the above conditions. If such an event occurs, report to Team Manager or designated person immediately.
You are done playing (until you contact management) if you have less than a session bankroll left that is still considered 'available for play'. The exception is if the count is still high and the shoe is not over. In this case, keep playing as normal (until the high count is over) but do not place a bet of more than half of what you have available to you in non-isolated (available for play) funds... save half for splits & doubles. Once you've run out of non-isolated funds, you are done playing even if the shoe is still hot. Do not play with less than once session BR left (of non isolated funds) just to keep playing (and hoping for some wins before you have to make a max bet)... this is a discipline thing. Under NO circumstances should you place a bet from isolated funds. This is very important... if you don't understand these terms (isolated/non-isolated), then be sure to ask.
Utilize Daily Stop/Loss Practices by contacting the Team Manager or another designated person in the event you lose 2 session bankrolls as defined for the given trip.
There should be no transfer of team funds between players without management approval.
Session buy-in amounts will be determined at start of trip. If possible enter game with chips in hand, which you may have held from a previous session or exchanged with another teammate.
If you are a "style" player or BP, attempt to seek out a Pit Person to get rated. Use an alias whenever possible. Have a fake business card or non-government ID card in-hand to offer to Pit Person. This will avoid being asked for an official drivers license. If you are asked for such an official ID, state that it's in your hotel room. If you do state this, make sure you don't have a wallet bulging from your pants.
If you are playing single-deck or double deck games in a pit where shoe games are also dealt, a good time to play is while the pit is changing the decks on the shoe games.
Try not to always wait until the last minute when placing your bet. If you have enough information, where you know the count will not change what you bet, get your bet up there.
If you play the same casino during different shifts without being rated or using different names, change your clothes and if you are with a girlfriend, either bring a different female or none at all for the next shift.
Use methods to grab cards quickly to play faster and increase hands per hour.
At the end of a session, leave table and head to next Casino on the schedule, recording session notes in a discreet place. Session notes can be recorded in a form as desired by the individual player, which should provide for comments on Dealers, Pit, and other general comments. A sample of such an individual session form can be in the form of Sample V. For overall results please use our standard reporting form (Sample VI).
In the event of heat, backing off, non-playable game or other unforeseen event that warrants leaving the Casino, proceed to the Back-up Club on the schedule, and attempt to phone a Team Contact person with this information.
If you spot a teammate in the casino, completely ignore him or her. Make no attempt whatsoever to communicate with the person in any manner while still inside the casino. The exception would be if it has already been established that you know each other; still try to minimize contact as much as is reasonable.
Everyone will have scheduled meal breaks. We will in all probability be dining solo, as to not associate with one another on the casino premises.
The schedule will allow for sufficient time between sessions, to facilitate cashing in chips, recording session notes and traveling between Casinos. It is essential that you arrive for your scheduled sessions on time.
We will have various pre-arranged methods of getting information to one another, without actual direct contact in casinos.
Schedules will provide for no more than 8 hours of play each day.
Schedules will provide for no more than 3 sessions to be played without a break.
Take a break if you have lost a session bankroll. If the situation presents itself, you might lament your loss and let it be known that you have dropped a bundle. Use this break to clear your head and analyze why you are losing. If it's just a negative fluctuation, that's fine. But if its because the conditions are not as good as they should be or because you are making mistakes, then either correct the situation and get back to work or quit for awhile (possibly the day). If any concerns arise, contact Team Manager, Assistant Manager or another teammate.
Take a break if you have won a session bankroll even if this occurs after only fifteen or twenty minutes (it doesn't matter how great the conditions might be that you are walking away from). This would be considered the end of a session. Do your record keeping. Take an extended break or start your next session (at a different casino, if possible).
Set up your departure from a table in advance. Time your exit while the Pit is not watching the table, and as the Dealer is turned away from you. A good technique is to color up some of your chips during the course of a session, and plan your exit a couple of hands prior to that exit. Always leave at a negative count or at the shuffle. Another good time to leave is when new decks are being brought into play. When dealers are changing is a good time to leave if you don't want to color up. If you want to slip away without coloring up, do not announce that you are leaving, wait for the dealer to turn to the opposite side of the table from where you are sitting, quickly grab your chips, turn around and keep walking. The dealer may call to you asking to color up, but you can choose to ignore this.
Discreetly hide chips whenever possible. As you change tables, if you have a stack of chips, don't put the whole stack on the new table. Play out of your pocket for a while. When leaving, the dealer will ask to color your chips to a higher denomination. Try using the exit technique described above to avoid this. If your back is already turned, it is easy to "not hear" the dealer's request. However, if you are snagged by an insistent dealer, by all means, give in your chips. This isn't important enough to start an argument over. Note that if you squirrel away chips, you can't cash them out during that session... if you cash them out, then you've defeated the purpose of hiding them.
If you do color up, and you won large, do not take the highest denomination chips in the chip tray. For example, when coloring up at the Mirage, take purple $500 chips rather than yellow $1000 chips. You can always keep chips without cashing out (especially if you have been winning) and exchange chips with teammates at the team meeting. This is helpful. Caution: If you enter a game with chips and are being rated, be certain that you have played in that casino during the trip under the name you are being rated under. Otherwise it looks suspicious as to why you have chips with no record of prior play.
Count all the cards on the table before you play your hand. This is important. Basic strategy departures should be based on all the information available to you at the moment the play is made. Anticipate a possible departure. Be ready to make the calculations. If you have the slightest doubt as to the appropriateness of the decision, abstain. There is no sense in guessing to make a departure. When in doubt, don't!
Never round a true count computation up for the purpose of deviating from basic strategy. If you haven't achieved the entire number (without rounding), you don't make the play.
When playing a face-up dealt game, give a hand signal for every play, every time, no matter what the total. This is mandatory. Signal "stand" for every 20, even in two cards. This way, the dealer will get used to expecting a signal from you. For example, when you have A,7 v. his 10, he will be less likely to pass you by. (Proper procedure for this play is to get your hand out early and to be ready for the "hit" signal before the dealer gets to you.) In addition, be ready to stop the dealer if you intend to split tens or double on A,9.
Call attention to a dealer's mistake (when not in your favor) concerning your hand as soon as possible, preferably, the moment it happens. Once your bet is collected and the hands are picked up, it is much more difficult to rectify an error. Be polite, but be firm. You are the Customer!
Again, try to anticipate close plays as the hands are unfolding. Be ready when your turn comes so that your play is natural and casual.
Don't give advice to other players. Don't appear to know a lot about the game. Play dumb. Don't explain strange plays that you make. Don't make adverse comments about the play of others. The only time it is acceptable to do such things as outlined above is when it is part of your act. If this is a part of your act, be certain you are extremely at ease with it.
Don't pay attention to what other players at the table are doing. Popular belief is that a player should be on the lookout for another counter at the same table. This should not be an issue. You are a professional and the methods of play outlined here will minimize you being detected as a counter regardless of whether another counter is at the table. You have enough things to pay attention to, therefore do not waste energy watching other players. One exception is if you are backcounting and see a player that you already know as a counter seated. In this case you should backcount a different table, but if you see this counter raising his bet, you can attempt to discreetly wong his table. This way you are using him as a spotter, free of charge.
-- Anonymous, October 18, 1999
your advice to not 'pay attention to what other players at the table are doing"... i think that this used to be valid advice, but now with computer tracking, hi-teck surveillance & such, it is much more likely for you to be caught 'by accident' while they are scrutinizing another player's action. the fact that i am a professional isn't going to do much to hide the fact that my bets & those of the other counter are going up and down in unison.on the other hand, i do like the idea of 'parasite play'... but even here, you do have to pay attention to the other players at the table in order to make this work.
this is not a major issue for me, and i won't press the point if you decide to leave things as they are... i simply want to point out why, in my opinion, the advice to not pay attention to other players may have some flaws in the reasoning.
-- Anonymous, November 18, 1999
I agree with you on this. I would like to keep this in though BUT rephrase the statement "do not pay attention to what other players at the table are doing" I will change it to something along the lines of "If you notice someone elses bets mirroring yours, here are some of the things to do....."
-- Anonymous, November 21, 1999
Game selection is critical. For the most part, Team Management will prepare a list of playable casinos based on games yielding a SCORE higher than 50 (as defined in BJF Vol. XIX #2, Summer 1999; the SCORE article is also available at RGE21.COM). Alternatively, games may be selected based on its Desirability Index (DI) from BLACKJACK ATTACK or WORLD'S GREATEST BLACKJACK SIMULATION books or from simulation data, whereby the DI is in excess of 7.07.
When playing single deck games, do not play at tables where more than three spots (including you) are being played. Further, make certain at least three rounds are being dealt to three spots; four rounds are being dealt to two spots; six rounds are being dealt to one spot; 'rule of six'.
When playing double-deck games, look for two criteria:
- 1. no more than three spots being played (including you)
- 2. at least 67% penetration (but definitely shop for better)
From time to time, exceptions may be made to the above criteria if circumstances dictate. Such exceptions may only be authorized by Team Manager or Assistant Managers. In the event an exception is made to the outlined criteria, it shall be communicated in writing to all players.
When playing shoe games, have a preference for less crowded tables (this is desirable, but not critical). Absolutely no more than 1.5 (and that's not great) decks should be cut off from play... more than 1.5 decks unseen may be unprofitable (so definitely shop for better). Also have a preference for tables where no silly side-bets are being played much (Royal Match, Progressive Jackpot, etc.). Progressive Jackpot is much preferable to Royal Match... it doesn't slow the game down much.
Except as part of an approved team operation, do not play at the same table with a team-mate. This is very important. This is true even if you are "off duty" and playing with your own money.
When playing head-on, try to sit at first-base and keep alert for dealers that expose the "burn card" which may be viewed from this position. Sitting low and leaning back in your chair (don't be obvious) can facilitate the gaining of this card value. If you are playing with other players, try to sit at third-base, so as to gain as much information resulting from the other player's cards as possible. Be aware that playing third base may subject your play to the scrutiny of other players. If you are not able to tune out negative comments directed toward you, third base is not your place. Sit a seat or two away from third base.
If you have the option, sit where there are two contiguous spots open. If this is not possible, but there is an open spot to the left or right of your neighbor, you can ask him/her to please move over because you'd like to play two hands. (Do this only when it is time to bet two hands, not before. You don't want to be pushy, and you may never get to the two hands, anyway.)
The most important factor is to seek the best possible PENETRATION available.
-- Anonymous, October 18, 1999
Always ask for a meal comp "for two" about 15 minutes prior to ending your session. Although you may not be ready to eat at that time, you will be at some later hour. Unused comps can also be given to other teammates, who may have come up "shorthanded" in this category. If you find a casino which has liberal comp policies in respect to getting a free room, take note of this and be certain to use this for a room comp on a subsequent trip.
DO NOT overplay any casino in attempt to "qualify" for a certain comp. By doing this you are falling prey to the manipulation used by casinos to keeping suckers at the table. Play on your own terms in accordance with our game plan.
-- Anonymous, October 18, 1999
Since our edge is small we try to get away without tipping dealers whenever possible. Sometimes it is necessary to tip for numerous reasons. A most effective method to tip, without giving up too much is to place a chip on top of your bet, lean over and tell the dealer "you've got something riding on this hand." If you win the hand, give the dealer the 1 winning chip and leave the original chip on the next hand. In this method, you as the player, control the tip instead of the dealer having to control the tip in accordance with House Procedures. In this method, you don't even need to say anything to the dealer, when placing the chip up on top. In this case, if you need to double or split, and win, you don't have to feel obligated to give him all the winning chips. With this method, you can get more mileage from a single chip if you hit a streak. Players who have an established relationship at a given casino may find it in their best interest to tip more liberally. This is acceptable as it helps the player maintain his "acceptance" in a given casino. Such players are also "style" players who possess the act to get away with playing a game that others cannot. These players should be receiving a higher level of comps as a result. Players using a "hit and run" style of player have a better chance of not tipping at all. If you had a nice run and won big, but haven't tipped during the session, you may want to consider tossing the dealer a chip at the end of the session. This is recommended if you plan on returning to play that casino/shift anytime soon.
Wait for a positive count, before placing a chip for the dealer. When receiving a blackjack, and the payoff results in an odd denomination chip(s), place that chip on top of your next bet, as the tip. A lot of people, as a rule, use the loose change when receiving a blackjack, as a tip for the Dealer. Don't do this too often, because you don't want the Dealer to get in the habit of "expecting" a tip every time you receive a blackjack.
When playing single or double deck games, where a "cut card" is not used to indicate the shuffle point, a good time to place a chip for the dealer is at the end of the deck(s) during a positive count, where the dealer may normally shuffle. Upon placing the chip, say to the dealer "This is for you, I feel a blackjack coming out of your hands right now." When a floorperson is watching the game, it may be beneficial to place a chip on top of yours, and if you win the hand, toss the winning chip to the dealer. If anyone should ever ask why you just don't place the bet on the side for the dealer, you simply tell them, "If I did that, the dealers would never get any money from me with my luck here today."
When initially buying in, if you are playing at a $25 minimum table, ask the dealer to break down one $25 chip into 5 x $5. Such action, might lead to the perception that the $5 chips are for tipping. At a $5 table, break down a $5 chip to dollars. Sometimes by creating this perception, you have a dealer on your side before you even placed your first bet!
There are still some casinos, where dealers keep their own individual tips and are not subjected to a general pool. If you happen to be playing in such a casino, tipping can become a more strategic part of your game.
If you are in a losing session, do not tip at all. You are not winning, therefore you have no money to tip and shouldn't. PERIOD.
Tipping is, at times, a necessary evil that has a cost to the team.
Report all tips in your session reports.
-- Anonymous, October 18, 1999
Carefully watch Cashier Clerk counting your disbursement to ensure it is accurate.
Count the cash yourself before leaving the Cashier.
Convert all smaller denomination bills as possible into 100's.
Pay heed to security and safety measures, as outlined in Chapter VI.
Be aware of what chip denominations should be avoided when cashing out at a given casino.
When cashing out, do so for $2500 or less at any one time.
-- Anonymous, October 18, 1999
If a Floorperson looks at you, don't look away. Smile or take the opportunity to ask some question in a natural manner.
If asked whether you'd like to be rated, say yes and give any name you desire.
Ask for a meal comp.
If Floorperson starts a conversation with you, look at him. If you have difficulty playing while doing this, flat bet table minimum until he walks away. If he won't leave, ask for a comp, then he'll walk away!!
As previously mentioned in Part B of this section, when leaving a table, don't announce that you're leaving, just take the chips and go. If the dealer asks for you to "color up" just turn and walk away, if possible. This ploy makes it difficult for the Pit to ascertain how much you won.
-- Anonymous, October 18, 1999
Read your target.
Determine what you perceive he or she may want to see or hear.
Show them what they want to see.
Tell them what they want to hear.
Have an "arsenal" of topics, lines to talk about.
Create a positive image of yourself.
The Initial Encounter
The first couple of minutes of an encounter (and this stands true in any walk of life) are the most crucial. This is where the person is sizing you up. Some basic rules:
- Maintain eye contact. Just for this short while, it could very well be worth the sacrifice of missing the count.
- Demonstrate sincerity. These Pit folks really don't get the opportunity to have anything more than a superficial conversation with anyone. So here is the opportunity for you to play this role and give the impression that you are not the typical bullshitter.
- Find a common interest and "work it"
If no common interest, find the person's area of expertise and ask advice. An example: Male player and female Pit Person..... Compliment her perfume, jewelry, hair style, etc... and ask where she got it, or could she recommend where to buy (whatever) for your wife/fiance/girlfriend. For a female player interacting with a male pit person there are many more opportunities . Ask advice on sports betting for one.
Typical questions:
- "Where are you originally from?"
- "How did you end up in Vegas"
- Show a real interest in what the person has to say. Remember you are allowing them to talk about their favorite subject: Themselves !!!
- Project Confidence - Eye contact, handshake, tone of voice and posture are all part of the image you project. If you have any uncertainties, "mask" these with humor of some sort.
For example if you are the nervous type and find it difficult to hide that, use humor such as: (mock nervously) "Let's see if you guys are going join in the "attack" on my wallet" This comment says that you've been losing all over town and making a joke about it. You may be nervous about something entirely different, but you are projecting this fact, while projecting that you are "aware" and handling things in a joking manner.
- Use topics other than gaming - This folks are talking gaming day in , day out. Give them a treat and they'll appreciate it.
Create the illusion that you may be someone that is a "good person to know."
Keeping Things Going
When the person is talking about a topic of his/her choice, listen, ask questions, and demonstrate that you are impressed.
Even if you know more about the choice subject than your target, don't show it! Let that person be the expert. Only if they submit and ask advice, should you then offer it. Other than that, let them talk, building up their own self-confidence of how brilliant they are, and acknowledge their "brilliance"
Be the "Designated Table Host"
You created a good initial impression. But now the Pit Person won't stop talking to you and you are having difficulty counting as a result. Solution: As other players join the table, get them involved in the discussion, ask their name, where they are from and then take it upon yourself to introduce that player to your new Pit Pal. As a result you may end up having the other player happy that you are "looking out for him/her" and the Pit Pal impressed that you are considerate in helping to make their job easier and create a friendly atmosphere in their pit.
JokesIf you perceive the target has a sense of humor, ask if they heard any good jokes lately. Let them "go off"; make sure to laugh (even if not funny).
If the person does not tell jokes, then you can try telling a few. Be playful, fun, but make it seem natural at the same time...
Current Events and Local News
Keep up on what's happening in the news, as well as what is going on in the local area, where you are playing. These can come in handy in conversations. You will project the image of an informed person and interesting to talk to.
Note: Coming across as "informed" does not necessarily make you appear as a counter.
If Your Target Wants to "Talk Shop"
Don't use any casino industry "buzzwords" but if your target does, pause and perhaps ask for a clarification. Then you can use that buzzword further in the conversation. This strengthens your "bond" with the person.
Have a little knowledge about the "Powers that Be" in the Casino you are playing. A little background knowledge of Steve Wynn, when playing Mirage, GN or TI is nice. If you have knowledge of other "board members" and a little on their backgrounds, that can help in keeping the target guessing a bit as to whether or not you may be "connected"
On the above point, name drop, when appropriate, but do it in a subtle way. Don't come across as trying to brag that you know so and so, but rather that you are informed and impressed with the accomplishments of certain individuals in the corporation. Show an interest in the target's career and progress in the corporation. You may want to toss in that you are a shareholder, in which case you should know what it's trading at.
Remember Names and Facts
This is crucial. When writing your session notes, record as much info about the Pit person as possible. When returning there months later, you can score HUGE points, by asking "did you ever close the deal on that house you were looking at?" "How was your daughter's wedding?"
If a different pit person is there next time you play, ask that person about the former. How is he/she doing. Etc..... It gives a head start working on the new target, but letting them know you are "in" with a colleague.
Gifts
Can be helpful. Don't just freely bring a gift to just anyone. A good thing to do is determine an area of interest of the target. Mention, that you bet the person would enjoy ........ Then next time you show up you can have a small token, which would be meaningful to the person.
Cigars are popular these days. It can be helpful to learn a few basic facts about cigars, along with the buzzwords.
Overall....
Be nice and let your conversations appear natural. It should be as though you are in your living room talking with a bunch of your close friends.
-- Anonymous, October 18, 1999
A sharp Pit Person will watch what a player does after his first winning bet.
Determine your next bet quickly so as not to give the impression of calculating or pondering over what to bet. Strive to make your bet appear natural and non-calculated. Make it appear as though you just grabbed some chips and shoved 'em out there.
If you have a high count, and floor person is not watching the game when placing your large bet up, consider placing a bet for the dealer. It may help get him/her on your side. Do this only if you have developed a good rapport with the dealer.
Control the tempo of the game, by playing fast when the Floorperson is not watching your game, while playing very slow while the Floorperson is watching the game. This accomplishes a couple of things. First, since you may be toning down your bets while being observed, you are not playing as many hands while doing so. Second, by slowing down the pace, the Floorperson may get bored and walk away.
If Floorperson has been watching your game, and you have been actively moving your bets, then he/she walks away, check to see if they either start talking to someone else in the Pit and look in your direction, or pick up the phone. If either of these events occur, it is probably a good idea to take your chips and leave shortly thereafter. Do not even cash out.
Do not be concerned with the Dealer. However, when the Dealer goes on break, be alert to see if he speaks to a Pit Person. Such an action should be regarded as a "red flag." If this occurs, then start watching the actions of that Pit Person.
If the pit is not paying attention to you, then there is not much need for camouflage. Jump your bets as the count dictates, but watch for a reaction from the pit. Depending on your style of play, if the pit is watching, or if the pit is conspicuously absent, the following are acceptable camouflage techniques which may be employed:
Prevent Mode for Betting
When you first arrive at table for individual play, and Floorperson is watching your play, flat bet the first 3 - 5 hands. If he/she doesn't leave, move bets carefully as outlined in 'Prevent Mode' betting above.
- Only increase your bet if you have won the previous hand. The next bet is, at most, a parlay of the previous original bet and should not be more than double the prior wager, even after winning a blackjack, double, or split. Remember that jumping your bets is a sure sign of a card counter... so exercise caution and be aware if you are drawing heat. Do not increase your bet after losing a hand, even if the count merits a higher wager.
- Do not decrease your bet after winning a hand, even if the count merits a lower wager.
- Do not change your bet after a push.
Always take even money on a blackjack, even if the count says not to. (if you were to always take even money, the long-term cost to you is very small... you might want to think about always doing this.)
Stand on A7 vs. 9,10,A.
Stand on all Hard 16s vs. 10.
Don't even think about splitting your tens.
Play two or three hands frequently and especially in high counts. When an insurance play is called for, there is more of a chance to justify your insurance play by increasing the possibility of at least one of the multi-hands being a lgoodn hand.
All other acceptable methods of cover betting are outlined in the supplement to this manual, titled lCover Betting Supplement.n
When using the above camouflage at single and double deck games, consider coming off the top (after a shuffle) with a two-unit bet occasionally. Two hands of one unit each is even more preferable.
Be less inclined to do this at games with mediocre rules. After coming off the top with a two-unit bet, adjust your betting to the count as normal for the second and succeeding hands. There is no need to use this costly ploy if you are not employing camouflage... camouflage is much more expensive to you (long term) in pitch games than it is in shoe games.
For a successful card-counter, there is no substitute for a well tuned 'heat' antenna.
In general, it is best to leave a table at which you have placed large bets towards the end of the shoe (6 deck) once the shoe is over.
If asked to leave, do not say a word, just start heading toward the exit without even cashing out.
When leaving a casino due to any heat or barring, check to see if anyone is following you.
-- Anonymous, October 18, 1999
after the bit about 'prevent mode', you talk about first arrival at the table tactics and mention the "'Prevent Mode' betting above." then you immediately start outlining some more camouflage that would appear to belong in the 'Prevent Mode' category. it's like 'Prevent Mode' got split into two sections.not sure i agree with the advice to frequently play three hands in high counts. i'm fairly certain that most players are not even remotely familiar with proper bet-sizing for three hands. besides, playing three hands is going to increase the player's variance for that session (making the liklihood of tappping out his session BR much greater). further, i'm not sure its profitable... especially in SD & DD games where the card-eating affect would be more pronounced.
i can certainly agree with going to three hands sometimes in a SINGLE-DECK game as part of some dealer or deck manipulation strategy... but that is much more complicated than simply going to 3 hands in high counts.
-- Anonymous, November 18, 1999
Overview:
This style of Team Play will be utilized during crowded or semi-crowded times for play.
This is a variation of the traditional Counter/BP approach, where in this method the Counter may mildly spread his bets vs. Flat betting. Using this variation, we will gain the additional edge, from the Counters play. Also, when a BP enters a game with a wild bet spread, and the Bosses suspect Team Play, the first thing they look for is another player at the table Flat-Betting. Our standard setup for this style of player is utilizing three counters seated at separate tables, signaling one BP during the course of the session. The benchmark game for this style of play is: S17, DAS, Surrender with a minimum of 1.5 decks out of a 6 deck game cut off. BP's will be required to know perfect basic strategy. Each group will meet briefly following each initial session to work out any "bugs" (mostly missed signals). should meet at a pre-arranged place after EVERY BP session to work out bugs AND to verify win/loss. this becomes an issue in dividing up the credit for hours & win among all participants; especially when 3 players are availble for two session and then a third session is done with four players (for example). there is some additional record keeping associated with this style of play that would simply be easier if it were sorted out after each session.
Counters arrive at Casino first.
After scouting tables, Counter will try to find a seat at 1st Base for Face-Up games, or next 3rd Base, with 3rd Base empty for BP for Face-Down games.
Counters play table minimum, subtly spreading bets.
BP enters Casino, locates Counter, ensuring Counter is aware BP is in the house.
BP should either have chips from previous session, or have cash ready, and wait for a signal from Counter.
BP should enter game buying in using $500 intervals. If the initial signal calls for a bet of $600 or more, the buy-in amount should be $1000. note that this standard may change as our betting levels rise & fall
BP should try for seat at 3rd base, or to left of Counter.
If playing a face down game, when picking up cards BP should subtly hold them for Counter to see.
Counter may also pull bet back when BP arrives at table, thus saving cards for the BP. If the counter is betting, Counter should also avoid splitting and excessive hitting, to further save cards for the BP. When count goes down to a certain point, Counter signals BP to leave.
If BP just lost a hand, it's a good opportunity to signal and exit from the table.
BP excuses self (just walk or make up a good reason) and look for a signal from a counter at another table.
Counter can make a dumb play of his own hand, resulting in the BP getting frustrated at this "idiot" and leaving the table.
BP's should stand while playing, to enable quick movement in and out of games. KEEP SESSIONS SHORT!!!!!
NO BETTING OR PLAYING COVER IS TO BE USED FOR THIS STYLE OF PLAY.
Counters should take note of how much in chips BP leaves table with.
BPs should keep chips stacked neatly while playing to make it easy for Counter to audit.
At the conclusion of the sessions played, all wins shall be divided equally amongst the Counters who participated in the sessions.
Prior to the day's play, all participants of a Counter/BP group will arrange for precise meeting times and places after each session. Punctuality is essential.
Signals for Counter/BP Plays are as follows:
- Call-In Signals: Lift Glass with 2 hands OR Stand Up
- Leave Table For a Break = Same as Call-In Signals
- End of Session Signal = Hand on Chest
- Heat Signal (Be Alert) = One hand rubbing back of neck
- Extreme Heat Signal (Leave Immediately) = Two hands rubbing back of neck
Betting Signals (Set One):
- Hands not touching = $100
- Hand on Hand = $200
- Hand on Forearm = $300
- Hand on Elbow = $400
- Hand on Bicep = $500
- Both Hands Clasped = 2 Hands of $50
- Both Hands on Opposite Forearms = 2 Hands of $100
Betting Signals (Set Two):
- 1 Odd Chip on Top of Bet = $100
- 2 Odd Chips on Top of Bet = $200
- 3 Odd Chips on Top of Bet = $300
- 4 Odd Chips on Top of Bet = $400
- 2 Green Chips Playing One Hand = $500
- 3 Green Chips Playing One Hand = $600
- Tip up for Dealer = 2 Hands of $400
Betting Signals (Set Three):
- Chip(s) at 3:00 = $100
- Chip(s) at 6:00 = $200
- Chip(s) at 9:00 = $300
- Chip(s) at 12:00 = $400
- Chip in Center = $500
- 2 Chips in Center = $600
- Pull Bet Back = 2 Hands of $400
a problem with some (not all) of the signals in the above sets are that they are taken straight out of MDBJ and could easily be recognized as such. also, my above comment regarding fixed dollar values changing with the rise & fall of the bank applies here as well. the chip placement signal (12 o'clock, 3 o'clock, etc.) are also very common sets of signals. i've encountered them before. whether or not my above comments are a problem... you be the judge; but you should at least be aware of these potential problems.
Constants:
- Holding Chips in Hand = Bet same as previous hand
- Spread to Two Hands of $10 = Spread to Two Hands of $100
- Spread to Two Hands of $15 = Sit out Until Shuffle
- Fist on Table = Vary from Basic Strategy
- Cover Play = Stand on Soft 18 vs. 9,10,Ace
Audible Signals:
- Talk about Planes, Flights, Airports = Bet Max of $600
- Talk about Skiing Downhill, Down the Mountain, Downtown, anything Down = Bet 2 Hands of $50
- Talk about Changing Watch, Changes in Town, Changing Clothes = Change to next set of bet signals
Counter should use the signals when playing alone to give the impression that he does these things regularly.
Counter should give "play variation" (wrong) signal on "no-brainer" plays (Hard 18, 19 etc.) to throw off any detection.
-- Anonymous, October 18, 1999
made some comments in the body of the preceding post. my comments are in bold face.
-- Anonymous, November 18, 1999
Overview:
This style of play will be applied with three or more players using a similar count. The players will backcount separate tables. When a player receives a favorable count at a table, he will signal one of the other players to come over to that game. The player will then signal the running count to the teammate arriving on the game, and leave the table. Upon leaving, that player will first look for a signal for a "hot" shoe from another teammate or commence counting a newly shuffled shoe elsewhere. The teammate who received the running count will enter the game in accordance with the defined bet schedule and pick up the count going forward.
Use various methods to backcount a table. If you attempt to backcount standing directly behind a seated player(s), try to create the impression that you are with that player(s). If you backcount from afar, do so in a manner that does not look obvious. Look casual. Look or walk away from the table periodically, timing such diversions to be executed as the dealer is picking up the cards from a round.
As a general guideline, walk away from a potential SHOE game (give up on playing there) if the running count is negative and you have seen half a deck. If the true count hasn't exceeded +1 by the time you see one full deck, start looking for another shoe to count down. For shoe games if the count equals or exceeds +1, consider it.
Consider standing instead of sitting down as you play the first hand or two. The count may deteriorate, and you may be leaving sooner than you think! It is easier to "get away" from a table if you have not yet made yourself comfortable!
NO BETTING OR PLAYING COVER IS TO BE USED FOR THIS STYLE OF PLAY.
At the conclusion of the sessions played, all wins shall be divided equally amongst the participants of the sessions.
-- Anonymous, October 18, 1999
As a general guideline, walk away from a potential SHOE game (give up on playing there) if the running count is negative and you have seen half a deck. If the true count hasn't exceeded +1 by the time you see one full deck, start looking for another shoe to count down. For shoe games if the count equals or exceeds +1, consider it.i suggest a slight re-wording here to accomodate the fact that many of us do not use high-low:
As a general guideline, walk away from a potential SHOE game (give up on playing there) if the running count is negative (less than your IRC) and you have seen half a deck. If the count hasn't exceeded ~0% advantage (high-low TC+1, KO key, etc.) by the time you see one full deck, start looking for another shoe to count down. For shoe games if the count equals or exceeds ~0% advantage, consider it.
-- Anonymous, December 14, 1999
Overview:
Players who possess the look and act to get away with betting large money in single-deck and double-deck games will be scheduled for such play. Such players will need to develop relationships with casino staff and use various methods to ensure their action is well accepted in such casinos. Solo Style Players may also combine efforts with other methods in the course of things.
Mix up your play between all three shifts of a casino, so as not to overexpose yourself on any given shift. If you are comped a room in a specific casino/hotel, only play there the days you are staying as a hotel guest. (This applies to players working to satisfy comp requirements) It is a good idea to stay a maximum of two nights at a hotel. Although this means changing hotels during a trip, it minimizes the amount of time you will be required to play in that casino, thus minimizing your exposure.
Stay alert to notice dealer weaknesses such as:
- Exposure of the bottom card before the cut - If you see a high card, you cut low to cut that card into play. If you see a low card, you cut high to cut that card out of play and include this card in your starting count.
- Exposure of the bottom card after the cut - You can use this information in your count before the first hand is dealt.
- Exposure of the burn card - You can use this information in your count before the first hand is dealt.
- A "High-Riffling" Dealer - When the dealer riffles the cards on the final riffle, you can observe some of the cards as the are falling in place. You are looking for "paint" here and this can help you determine where to cut. The best dealers for this practice are females with long fingernails.
The above are the most common dealer weaknesses. The best opportunities to gain this information come from sitting at 1st base.
The following are methods to identify quality games:
- Pit - A good pit setup for you as a player is where the Floor person has several tables to monitor. Observe the number of tables open when you play and record this information in your session notes. Time to Play - Best time for head on action is graveyard shift (4am - 12pm in many casinos). During any shift a good time to play is toward the end of the shift. The dealers and pit are getting tired. Dealers may get sloppy and lazy. Too lazy to shuffle all the time, so penetration may be better. If you are in a pit where shoe games are mixed in with double deck games, a great time to play is when they are changing cards on the shoe games. This procedure requires lots of pit attention and a double deck player can play unobserved by the pit during this time.
- Number of Players at Table - As a guideline, we aim to play at tables with no more than two other players. The less players at the table, the more hands per hour you get as a player, playing at an advantage. There is flexibility here, but exercise sound judgment before entering a game at a crowded table.
- Dealer Selection - Aside from any exploitable weaknesses, the two most important qualities to look for in a dealer are: (a) a deep dealing dealer; (b) a fast dealer.
- Rules - Be aware of the different rules in each casino. You will be provided with a sheet, outlining the rules for each casino. In the event you note a discrepancy, please include this information in your session notes.
Techniques for your initial entrance into a game:
- Timing Your Arrival - Watch for a new shuffle and approach the table just as the first round is being dealt. This will give you the opportunity to see the first round of cards dealt, establish your count and determine whether it is worthwhile to enter the game at that point. This is a good opportunity if the count warrants to enter the game with a higher bet. This tactic is not applicable in games where no mid-deck entry is allowed. Entrance Bet(s) - If you already have chips (recommended), you have a good opportunity to sneak in your bets without the requirement of the dealer announcing your buy-in or "money plays" bet. If you have a count calling for a minimum bet and the Floor person is not watching the table, bet that minimum. If the Floor person is watching, you may want to bet more than the minimum for the first few hands, if the count is not extremely negative. A good way to approach this is to play two hands.
- Initial Aggressive Play - If youmve entered a game and the count immediately jumps up, do not hesitate to put the big bets out. There is no way the Pit nor the Eye can establish any pattern, as it is just way too soon. However, if you happen to win some big bets right off the bat, chances are you will then be under observation. One thing you can do is simply leave. Another tactic is to go to a 1or 2 unit bet after the next shuffle, which may give the impression that you were just going crazy off the bat and now cooled down a bit. You can throw some parlay/progression cover in, if you are comfortable doing so. If you lose your initial big bets, you are justified cutting back to a table minimum bet at the shuffle. In this case, bet table minimum and flat bet for a bit, unless the count really jumps up there. Then go for another "going crazy" round. If you win those big bets, leave a big bet out at the shuffle (maybe 2 hands), until you lose a bet. Then cut back to 1 unit.
- Initial Passive Play - Flat bet the first 2 rounds regardless of the count. Another tactic is to go with a parlay/progression for the first 2 rounds regardless of the count (But not a strict parlay, be creative). During this time, the count jumps up there, throw a few extra chips up there or spread to that second hand. In an initial passive entrance, you a setting yourself up to become more aggressive shortly thereafter. When using an initial passive entrance, play very slowly (see "Controlling the Tempo" section below).
Techniques to apply during the course of a play session:
- Changing Tables - Break down your 1 hour session into three 20-minute mini-sessions at a table. After 20 minutes, change tables. Never leave a table at a positive count, always wait for a negative. When you enter a new table, time your arrival with the shuffle as outlined in the above section.
- Restroom Break - During each 20-minute mini-session, take 1 restroom break or leave the table for some reason or another (phone call, sports bet). When you return from your restroom break, time your arrival with the shuffle as outlined in the above section.
- Players Jumping Into Game - If a player starts to enter a game in progress, and the count is negative, wait for the player to put a bet in the circle, then pull yours back, without saying a word. Body language is important here, as you want to look disturbed. If the count is positive, catch the player before the bet is dropped and ask the player to please wait for the shuffle. Ask politely but firmly.
- Players Jumping Out of Game - If a player leaves a game at a negative count, and there is another player at the table, pull your bet back. If the count improves, jump back in. The message you are giving here is that you are cognizant of the order of the cards being changed and maybe by sitting out a hand or 2 or 3, might change things for the better. If a player leaves a game at a positive count, this is a good opportunity to spread to 2 hands. Your message is that you want to keep the order of the cards.
- Pocketing Chips - When changing tables, taking restroom breaks and during dealer changes are good times to pocket chips. This will make it difficult for the Pit to get an accurate handle on your win. Be aware of the tolerance levels of the casino in which you are playing, as this will determine the denomination of the chips which you should pocket. Also note bet levels of the other players at your tables, as this is another factor. Especially if there is another big bettor at the table who is not getting rated. In this case, if the player leaves comment that he had some chips in his pocket.
- Controlling the Tempo - This is a key tactic. When the count is positive, play fast and aggressive. When the count is negative, play slow. When playing unobserved by the Pit, play fast. When the Pit is watching, slow it down.
Betting and playing cover may be employed when necessary only as outlined in Section V Part I of this manual and the lCover Betting Supplementn to the manual.
-- Anonymous, October 19, 1999
Record all results diligently and accurately. Be precise and careful. You are to record time played and the outcome (both gross and net win, after tips). Take care of your record keeping IMMEDIATELY after a session; do not rely on memory for your records. Record your time to the nearest fifteen minute.
At the end of a day's play, tally up your information and report it to management at the daily meeting. Be prompt with this information so that discrepancies can be sorted out in a timely fashion.
At the end of this section are samples of an Individual Session Sheet and Player's Trip Report (Summary of all sessions for trip). The required information is self-explanatory.
Keep lots of notes on good & bad dealers, when shift changes occur at different casinos, and other items of interest. Management will eventually compile a database for use by players on team trips to facilitate planning and finding good games (or avoiding bad ones).
After completing your daily win/loss records, you must perform a proof to that of your team cash-on-hand. Basic formula should be START CASH + WIN/LOSS = END CASH. This must be accurate without fail upon reporting to team meeting.
In the event a player is not capable of balancing his records in a timely manner, a teammate shall be assigned to assist, using the playerms start cash to end cash difference, which will represent that player's forced win/loss for team recording purposes.
Upon entering the team meeting, you are to immediately report the following:
- Win/Loss
- Hours Played
- Team Cash-On-Hand
- Expenses
- Tips
-- Anonymous, October 19, 1999
Upon entering the team meeting, you are to immediately report the following:
- Win/Loss
- Hours Played
- Team Cash-On-Hand
- Expenses
- Tips
should be slightly re written so that there is no confusion as to whether the reported win/loss is pre- or post- tips.
Upon entering the team meeting, you are to immediately report the following:
- Hours played
- Gross win/loss (before tips)
- Tips
- Net win/loss (after tips)
- Team cash-on-hand
- Expenses
-- Anonymous, December 14, 1999
Players shall be responsible for all expenses incurred for travel to and from casinos scheduled for play in the city a trip is scheduled. In the event a car rental or ground transport is required with an expense in excess of $25 as a result of a scheduled session(s), such expense made be deemed as reimbursable by management.
Players are responsible for arranging their own lodging. In most casino towns, hotel room comps can be obtained. Such comps should be shared among teammates.
Players are responsible for their own meal expenses. Meal comps earned should be shared and exchanged amongst teammates. Gratuities for meals are NOT a team expense.
Phone call expenses made by players resulting from team business shall be reimbursed.
Expenses incurred to facilitate transferring monies for team purposes shall be reimbursed. This includes, but is not limited to: Overnight courier services, Bank fees to obtain Cashiers Check, Money Orders, wiring of funds or Travelers Checks.
Expenses associated with recruiting players will be "fronted" by Team Manager and reimbursed as a team expense.
Expenses associated with polygraph testing will be "fronted" by Team Manager and reimbursed as a team expense.
Expenses associated with employing persons to monitor players in action will be "fronted" by Team Manager and reimbursed as a team expense.
Expenses associated with employing agreed upon outside players, shall be "fronted" by Team Manager and reimbursed as a team expense.
Expenses associated with opening checking accounts and safe deposit rentals as deemed necessary shall be "fronted" by Team Manager and reimbursed as a team expense.
In the event several players are in town for a period of one month or more, the Team Manager may elect to arrange for the rental of a local apartment, which will be a team expense.
Player's airfares shall be reimbursed as defined below according to the following guidelines:
- Player must have already completed 300 hours of team play, since the inception of the team PRIOR to the current trip. If the 300th hour is reached during a given trip, the player will qualify for reimbursement on the NEXT trip.
- Player must be present on a team trip for a minimum of four full days of play.
- A minimum of 30 hours must be played during the trip without exceeding 8 hours of daily play.
Team Manager or Assistant Manager who is in charge of a specific trip will be eligible for reimbursement as defined below.
All persons eligible for airfare reimbursement as qualifying for a team expense shall receive the amount of the lowest available airfare at the time the trip is agreed upon (this amount will be determined by the Team Manager), but in no event shall the reimbursed amount exceed $200, regardless of actual cost.
-- Anonymous, October 19, 1999
this section needs a rewrite to reflect our conversations. basically, we agreed that there should be essentially NO reimbursable expenses, but that they should be recorded anyway to facilitate the creation of a future reimbursement plan.
-- Anonymous, December 14, 1999
x
-- Anonymous, October 19, 1999
x
-- Anonymous, October 19, 1999