As an expert in the field of card games, specifically focusing on Blackjack, I can provide a comprehensive explanation about what a "soft 16" is. Blackjack is a popular casino banking game where the aim is to have a hand value that is closer to 21 than that of the dealer without exceeding 21. In this game, the cards have different values: numbered cards are worth their face value, face cards (kings, queens, and jacks) are worth 10, and an ace can be worth either 1 or 11, depending on what makes the best hand for the player.

A "soft 16" in Blackjack is a specific type of hand that contains an ace and four other cards that total to 15. The ace in a soft 16 can be counted as either 1 or 11, which gives the player flexibility in how they choose to play the hand. The term "soft" refers to the fact that the hand does not include any tens, which means there is no risk of busting if the player decides to draw another card. This is in contrast to a "hard 16," which is a hand that cannot exceed 16 without busting.

The strategy for playing a soft 16 can vary depending on the specific rules of the game being played and the player's personal strategy. Generally, a soft 16 is considered a stronger hand than a hard 16 because of the ace's flexibility. Players often choose to hit (draw another card) on a soft 16, hoping to improve their hand without the risk of busting.

It is important to note that the decision to hit or stand on a soft 16 should be made with consideration of several factors, including the dealer's upcard and the overall count of the deck if the player is using a strategy like card counting. If the dealer's upcard is high (typically 7 or above), it might be more advantageous to stand, as the dealer is more likely to bust. Conversely, if the dealer's upcard is low (2-6), it might be better to hit, as the dealer is less likely to bust and the player can try to improve their hand.

Now, let's address the two points provided for reference:

1. **"You can't bust a soft hand with a one-card hit."** This statement is generally true. With a soft 16, such as ace-2-3, if you draw a 10, the ace can be counted as 1, making the hand a hard 16. The key here is that you haven't busted because the ace can still be used as 11 if needed, but in this specific scenario, it is treated as 1 to avoid busting.

2. **"Hands of 17 and lower do not win unless the dealer busts."** This statement is misleading. In Blackjack, the objective is to have a hand value that is closer to 21 than the dealer's without going over. A hand of 17 or lower can win if the dealer's hand is 16 or lower and does not bust. The outcome of the game is not solely dependent on the dealer busting; it is also about having a higher hand value than the dealer without exceeding 21.

In conclusion, understanding the concept of a soft 16 is crucial for any Blackjack player. It provides a strategic advantage due to the flexibility of the ace and the lower risk associated with drawing additional cards. Players should always consider the dealer's upcard and the overall game situation when deciding how to play a soft 16.

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1. You can't bust a soft hand with a one-card hit. If you have a soft 16, such as ace-2-3, and draw a 10, all you do is make it a hard 16, with the ace used as a 1. 2. Hands of 17 and lower do not win unless the dealer busts.read more >>