1. How Many Blackjack Hands Are Dealt Per Hour
2. How Many Blackjack Hands Can Be Dealt

In most versions of Blackjack, when you are dealt a pair (two of the same card), you have the option to split them into two new hands. You are dealt two more cards (one for each new hand) and your bet is doubled. You play each hand normally — you get two chances to beat the dealer (or lose). In S17, the most cards you can make 16 with are A,A,A,A,A,A,6,A,A,A,A. Dealer must hit, but only 1 more time - answer is 12. To do this, there need to be at least 3 decks in play. In H17, the most cards you can make 16 with are A,A,A,A,A,A,A,5,A,A,A,A. Dealer must hit, but only 1 more time - answer is 13. Again, minimum of 3 decks in play.

Two questions....
1. On average, based on what I just described, approximately how many hands should be played per-hour? This assumes a moderately skilled dealer.
2. By taking ties, approximately how much does that increase the house edge?
As always, thanks.

My answers, could be wrong (my errors, not people I'm quoting)
1. With no down time for shuffle, a moderate dealer should be able to deal a full table at 70-80 hph. (anecdotal from a distributor conversation)
2. Per the Wiz, house takes ties for all hands increases house edge by 8.86%. See this link, last line of the table.

I help run a charity gaming event. Real money. Low stakes. All volunteer dealers in blackjack. 20 tables which are always full w/7 players per table.
Basically, a $2-$10 game. Dealers use an 8-deck shoe. When done, we simply bring them a new, pre-shuffled shoe and take out the old shoe. This saves table down time by more than 25%. No insurance bets (I don't know why). Here's the big one...HOUSE TAKES TIES!
Two questions....
1. On average, based on what I just described, approximately how many hands should be played per-hour? This assumes a moderately skilled dealer.
2. By taking ties, approximately how much does that increase the house edge?
As always, thanks.

Great question, Riva! Hands per hour can be dealer dependent as some are faster and more dexterous than others. Other factors are number of players at the table, side bets, players' decision times etc. I regularly play over 200 hands per hour one on one.
Wong did some studies on this subject using Atlantic City six deck games. Here's what is in Professional Blackjack:
1 player: 248 hands per hour
2 players: 158
3 players: 116
4 players: 91

How Many Blackjack Hands Are Dealt Per Hour

5 players: 76
6 players: 64
7 players: 56

How Many Blackjack Hands Can Be Dealt

Yes, many tables were cramped with 7 spots back then. I hope that you find this even a little helpful. Working with charities is one of the most noble and rewarding things that I can think of. The very best of luck with yours.