Blackjack Double Down – When to Use It and What It Is
In blackjack, one of the most powerful moves a player can make is the Double Down. It can help maximize potential profits in favorable situations, but it requires careful consideration and a solid understanding of the rules. Here’s a breakdown of what double down is, when to use it, and why it’s such an important strategy.
What is Double Down?
In blackjack, double down allows you to double your original bet after receiving the first two cards. In return, you are dealt only one additional card to complete your hand. This move is generally used when you feel confident that an additional card will give you a strong chance of winning, and you want to maximize your potential winnings.
- Example: Suppose you have a 10 and the dealer shows a 5. You double down, placing an additional bet equal to your original bet, and the dealer gives you one more card. If you draw a 10, you’ll have a total of 20, a very strong hand, and you’ve doubled your bet.
When Should You Use Double Down?
The key to using the double down strategy effectively is knowing when to take advantage of the situation. Below are some of the most favorable situations to double down in blackjack:
1. When You Have a Total of 11
- Why: A total of 11 is one of the best hands to double down on, especially if the dealer is showing a 5 or 6. With 11, you have the potential to draw a 10 or face card, giving you a total of 21, the best possible hand in blackjack.
- Strategy: Double down when you have 11 and the dealer shows a lower card (2-6), as they have a higher chance of busting.
2. When You Have a Total of 10
- Why: A hand totaling 10 is also strong for a double down. You’re likely to draw a 10, which will give you a total of 20, a strong hand. When the dealer shows a 2-9, you have a better chance of winning with your double down.
- Strategy: Double down on 10 when the dealer’s card is 2-9. However, avoid doubling down if the dealer has a 10 or an Ace, as their chances of getting a strong hand are higher.
3. When You Have a Total of 9
- Why: A hand totaling 9 can also be a great time to double down, especially if the dealer has a 3, 4, 5, or 6 showing. These are considered “dealer bust cards” because they increase the chance of the dealer busting.
- Strategy: Double down on 9 when the dealer’s upcard is 3, 4, 5, or 6. This is because the dealer has a higher likelihood of busting, and you can capitalize on the opportunity by doubling your bet.
4. When the Dealer Has a Weak Upcard (2-6)
- Why: If the dealer is showing a weak card (2-6), they are at risk of busting. In this scenario, doubling down gives you the opportunity to take advantage of the dealer’s vulnerability. The goal is to maximize your potential profit when you have a strong hand.
- Strategy: Double down when you have a favorable hand (11, 10, or 9) and the dealer has a 2-6 showing. This puts pressure on the dealer to draw a high card and bust, while you can increase your bet to take advantage of the situation.
5. When You Have a Soft Hand (Ace + 2-6)
- Why: A soft hand, such as Ace-5 or Ace-6, is a good opportunity for a double down. With a soft hand, you won’t bust if you draw a high card. The flexibility of a soft hand increases the chances of making a strong hand after the additional card.
- Strategy: Double down on a soft hand (Ace + 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6) when the dealer has a weak card (2-6). Since you won’t bust with a high card, you have more chances to improve your hand.
