Here’s How the Edge Sorting Strategy Works

Casino players have tried to gain an edge over the house for as long as casino gambling has existed. Edge sorting is one such advantage playing technique that sees players identifying irregularities on playing cards and using that information to their advantage.

In this article, we explain what edge sorting is and how it works in card-based casino games. Also, we list the pros and cons of using this advantage play technique. Continue reading!

What exactly is edge sorting?

Simply put, edge sorting is an advantage play strategy mostly used in the land-based version of online Baccarat. Here, players track the irregularities on the back of playing cards and use that information to locate specific cards. This, in theory, gets them an edge over the house.

Edge sorting can be employed at land-based tables that use “defective” card decks. In other words, cards that have irregular patterns or cuts. When using this technique, players must keep an eagle eye on the cards as they are shuffled and dealt.

The playing cards look completely normal to the casual eye. But sometimes, the patterns on these cards have manufacturing irregularities. Also, the marks on the cards may not be 100% symmetrical when the dealer cuts them. Spotting those differences can help players in predicting what cards will show up.

How does edge sorting work?

As mentioned earlier, edge sorting is primarily used in the game of Baccarat. But some casino players also use it in card-based games like Blackjack and Poker. Note that edge sorting won’t help when playing Baccarat and Blackjack online games at our online casino UK.

This is because online casino games use virtual cards that look the same. Moreover, online casino titles have a Random Number Generator (RNG) system to draw random cards.

Nevertheless, let’s look at how this advantage-play strategy works. First, the player starts by sitting at a casino table that uses defective card decks. Then as the gaming action unfolds, the player will request the dealer to rotate face cards. This can be done under the disguise of superstition or some other notion of luck.

That way, higher-valued cards will be turned one way and the lower-valued cards the other. So, when the dealing of the cards starts again, players can distinguish higher-valued cards from lower-valued cards and use that information to plan their next wagers.

Why can edge sorting be a good playing technique?

Below we’ve listed the reasons why edge sorting can be a good playing technique to go with:

It isn’t illegal

– When using the edge sorting strategy, you won’t physically touch the cards or use any special tool to interfere with the game. As such, using the edge sorting technique isn’t technically illegal.

It can boost the profit margin

– With edge sorting, players can gain around 6% advantage over the casino in Baccarat games.

It can be easier for high rollers

– High rollers may find it somewhat easy to employ this advantage play technique. This is because being a high roller increases the chances of the casino accepting any request that can make the player with edge sorting.

Greater profits in the long run

– As experienced players would tell, having an advantage is quite helpful. If done correctly, edge sorting can get you huge potential winnings. Of course, this isn’t always guaranteed.

Why may you not want to use edge sorting?

Here are the downsides of using this advantage play technique:

It’s highly difficult

– Edge sorting is one of the toughest techniques to get hold of. Given the many variables at play, you may not be able to read cards as effectively as you’ve planned.

You need the right conditions

– Without defective cards, automatic shuffling machines and an impressive vision, edge sorting will have little to no use.

The gambling venue can accuse you of cheating

– We explained earlier that edge sorting isn’t illegal. But if found using this strategy, the casino may refuse to give the amount you’ve won.

The house might blacklist you

– Edge sorting may also result in you being blacklisted by the house. And as casinos often share information on players with other venues, you could be blacklisted from multiple gambling venues.

Alternative advantage play techniques

If you’ve got a significant bankroll amount, here are some alternative advantage play techniques you might consider trying:

Bet the banker

As a Baccarat player, there are three betting options for you to go with. You can bet on the Banker, the Player or Tie. The bet the banker Baccarat strategy says that one must always wager on the banker. The Banker bet has a casino advantage of 1.04% (including the casino’s 5% commission). In comparison, the house edge for the Player and Tie bet is 1.24% and 9.5%, respectively.

Hole carding

In card-based casino games, hole carding refers to getting information about cards that are supposed to be hidden. Given that you haven’t indulged in any fraudulent activity, it’s not illegal to benefit from seeing the dealer’s hole-down card. Remember that most dealers know this and will carelessly keep their hole cards hidden.

Summing up

To sum up, edge sorting is an advantage play technique that relies on identifying patterns on flawed cards. This strategy can help you get an advantage in the casino game. But it would help if you had the right circumstances for that. Also, all casino titles are luck-based games at the end of the day. So, the edge sorting strategy won’t always help you at land-based tables.

We’ve got a vast selection of online and mobile casino games for players who want to enjoy a seamless and entertaining casino gaming experience from the comfort of their homes. Also, go through our gambling songs article that lists the best songs about the popular casino classic.