Royal vs KEM Cards

[Jay]

I was wondering what the differences are between Royal (plastic) cards and KEM cards? Is there much of a difference to warrant the cost of KEM?

[AmericanAirlines]

When I was at dealer school I seem to remember Kem Cards were "softer" or "less stiff". I figured they'd be less likely to take a mark, or eventually crack.

'course the difference could be brand name too!

Kem's come out of Scranton, Pa. and are supposed to be the same plastic as dice. Can't say about the Royals right of.

Gemaco is another brand of plastic cards to look at as well.

Near as I can tell, the casinos find it more cost effective to use the plastic cards for poker and paper cards (Bee Casino Specials) for 21. They toss the cards for 21 (actually sell then for souveniers) several times a day...

But the worn plastic cards in the poker room don't present the same possiblity to hurt the house that a readable dealer's down card would.

"Game Protection in #1" is the saying for Dealers.

Sincerely,
AA