Dealer’s Stiff [Meaning] - MasterTerms.com

Dealer’s Stiff

A Dealer’s Stiff is a hand in Blackjack where the dealer has a total of 12 to 16, making it vulnerable to busting if they take another card.

In Blackjack, the dealer is required to hit until their hand reaches at least 17. A Dealer’s Stiff hand refers to when the dealer has a total between 12 and 16. This is considered a precarious hand because there is a high probability that drawing another card will result in a bust (going over 21). Players often try to adjust their strategy when the dealer shows a stiff hand, as the dealer’s chances of busting are higher.

Dealer’s Stiff Example

For example, if the dealer has a 6 showing and a 10 hidden (making a total of 16), this is considered a Dealer’s Stiff. If the dealer takes another card and draws a 7, they will bust.