Originally Posted by MisterV View Post
My question was genuine, but my interest is casual as I don't play the game.

As with most aspects of my life I seek to learn, be informed, and evaluate and weigh things based on valid criteria.

I accept your answer to the question, thank you.

I do have another question, probably filed under "blackjack 101:" what is the policy toward mid-shoe entry?

I seem to recall reading somewhere that it was a red flag to try and ID counters, and that some casinos prohibited it?
No mid shoe entry usually referred to as NMSE, is much bigger in other areas, like east coast where I used to play than in Vegas. But some (off-strip) casinos in Vegas, have a rule that if you join mid shoe you have to bet table minimum until the shuffle, which serves the same purpose as NMSE.

But, while mid shoe entry is allowed at many places in Vegas, I personally agree with you observation, that it draws some attention. I wouldn't go as far as to call it a "counter trap" as some other things in Vegas are, but I think your term "red flag" is appropriate. Let's just say if you sit down mid shoe betting anything much more than table minimum you will be noticed. Doesn't necessarily mean something will come of it, but you will be notice. I try to be noticed the least amount as possible.