by illu45

“When people ask what I do, I usually say I’m into short term investments. Usually after I say that, no one wants to hear any more. It’s kind of a conversation killer. If people ask at a blackjack table, I usually say I’m in the porn industry. It explains why I have money, and why I have a mustache.”

Since card counting is not illegal, casinos use a practice known as “backing off” to deter advantaged players. Once an advantaged player is spotted, they are often encouraged to move on to another game, or to even leave the casino. Being backed off is a badge of honor for the amateur card counter, as this means you have succeeded to the extent that you became a detriment to the casino. If a backed off player doesn’t move on, or continues to try to play blackjack, things can get much more serious.

“I started with this”, holding up two black $100 chips, “Now I’ve got this”, holding out a palm overflowing with chips of every color, including half a dozen black chips. “I’m up $800, and it’s only been half an hour.” Then he turns to get back to work. After all, there is a lot of time left in the day, and a lot more money to be made.