It's a tradition that started from land-based casinos but is now present in blackjack dealing online. Blackjack dealers use table swiping to communicate clearly with players and casino staff, including the pit boss. It also helps the surveillance team keep an eye on the tables, ensuring fairness in the games.

Before starting a new game, the dealer swiftly swipes their hand across the table, signaling players to start placing their bets. This clear signal ensures everyone knows it's time to wager. 

Later, a dealer will make a second swipe from right to left. A common blackjack myth is that the gesture is a way to bid players farewell and wish them luck. However, what it actually signifies is the dealer indicating that betting is now closed. This definitive gesture prevents disputes about when bets were placed, maintaining a smooth gaming experience. 

What if the Dealer Fails To Swipe the Table?

It Gives Room for Cheating

If the dealer fails to swipe the table or call “no more bets” and quickly deals the card, a player can take advantage of the situation, especially if the first card is an ace. They can claim that they were about to place a bet with a higher amount but were given limited time. 

This becomes a problem if there's a chance the player was trying to cheat. The best way to resolve the issue is to review the casino CCTV to determine who is correct. However, this could have been avoided if the dealer had swiped the table.

It May Reduce the Betting Time

Sometimes, players genuinely want to bet but are unaware or busy socializing. Casino dealers have a duty to manage the game, ensuring all players are involved. 

In poker, some players take their time before making a move — and that's fine. But in most other online casino games, like blackjack, the dealer determines when a new hand begins. 

Most players know it's time to start placing their bets when the dealer swipes the table. For some players, especially beginners, deciding how many chips to bet can take time. Swiping the tables prompts them to make a quick decision and place their chips in the circle on time. 

Slower Pace and Reduced Profit

Maintaining a steady pace allows dealers to deal more hands per hour and generate higher profits. Giving players more time to wager, like an extra 20 seconds, would result in significant profit loss for the casino.

Moreover, most blackjack players prefer a faster game. When all players place their bets quickly, it keeps those who enjoy a speedy game happy and engaged. They could also play for longer periods. 

The game maintains a balanced speed with well-timed table swiping, pleasing the managers and the players.

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