Explanation of Hanger
A 'hanger' specifically refers to an unintentional display of the second-to-last card in the deck due to the act of base dealing. Having an insight into base dealing can enhance your understanding of what a hanger is.
Ideally, a dealer should consistently deal cards from the top of the deck , as this is the proper way to conduct the game. Deviating from this norm—such as drawing from other sections of the deck—can be an indication of poor sportsmanship and more often than not points to cheating. Base dealing, which is a deceptive technique, allows a dealer to deal from the deck's bottom while creating the illusion for onlookers that the card is actually coming from the top. To bolster this deception, the top card is pulled out slightly as the bottom card is discreetly extracted.
When executed flawlessly, only seasoned card specialists might detect the subtle differences between ordinary dealing and base dealing; a distinct sound can even arise during base dealing that differs from the regular sound of dealing. However, there are times when even skilled practitioners can slip up, inadvertently causing the second-to-last card to jut out slightly while they retrieve the bottom card. This occurrence is known as a 'hanger' and serves as a prominent clue that the dealer may not be following the rules. Consider this: if the dealer were truly dealing from the top, there would be no logical explanation for the bottom card to become misaligned.
The concept of a 'hanger' rose to fame primarily through the film Rounders, in a scene where the character Worm observes a hanger while engaging in base dealing during a game with law enforcement officers.
For instance, when using the term Hanger in conversation -> They managed to cheat successfully for a considerable time until Worm spotted a hanger during the police's game.
Incorporating Hanger into Your Poker Tactics
It's essential to keep in mind that the allure of cheating can impact many poker enthusiasts. We shouldn't fall into the trap of thinking that it's impossible for a dealer to be dishonest. Consider these points -
1. Exercise caution when participating in live games where your rivals might not be reliable.
2. Familiarize yourself with basic videos that explain base dealing and how to identify it, including characteristics of the card mechanic's grip.
3. While variance plays a significant role in poker, it's important to closely observe players who appear to be on unlikely successive winning streaks.
Learning a few sleight-of-hand tricks can be an entertaining way to show off to friends, especially during your turn to shuffle the deck. However, always keep in mind that utilizing these skills to manipulate card outcomes constitutes cheating. Not only is this behavior considered unethical, but it can also lead to severe repercussions if caught, ranging from being physically confronted to facing legal actions.