Uston SS: The Ultimate Counting System
Uston SS is an unbalanced counting system designed to maximize your edge by focusing on mid and high cards.
Learn what it's about, how to use it, and why it's so powerful at multi-deck tables.
Start the Tutorial ↓Introduction
Uston SS (Uston Statistical System) was created by Ken Uston in the 1970s. It’s an unbalanced system that starts at –4×Decks and aggressively targets mid cards.
Theoretical Foundations
- 1977: Ken Uston publishes his SS method.
- Base: Initial offset = –4 × number of decks.
- Focus: Cards 2–7 are highly valued.
- Requirement: Ability to handle large swings in the Running Count.
“SS gives you the power of a hammer when the deck is full of low cards.”
How It Works
Assign unbalanced values to each card and begin with a negative offset.
Card 5: +3
Cards 2–4, 6: +2
Card 7: +1
Card 8: 0
Card 9: −1
Cards 10–A: −2
When to Raise Your Bet?
With Uston SS, many players start raising bets when the True Count goes above +1, due to the aggressive starting offset.
Pros, Cons & Advanced Tips
Pros
- 🔹 High early-game sensitivity.
- 🔹 Aggressive offset supports early betting.
- 🔹 Ideal for multi-deck games.
Cons
- 🔸 Very large swings.
- 🔸 Hard to handle without a solid bankroll.
- 🔸 Detectable by professional casino staff.
Advanced Tips
- 🔹 Combine it with a side count of Aces for better precision.
- 🔹 Adjust your bet spread: 1–2 units at +1, 2–4 at +2, etc.
- 🔹 Maintain a bankroll of at least 50 × your base unit.
References
- 🔹Uston, K. (1977). The Big Player. Lyle Stuart.
- 🔹Wong, S., & Thorp, E. (1999). The Theory of Blackjack.
Live Demonstration
Video: example of Uston SS applied to an 8-deck shoe.Your Next Step
Keep practicing on our Learning App 30 min a day.
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