Blackjack Double Down Bet
The double down in blackjack is a strategic move available in most casinos. It allows you to double your bet after you are dealt cards. At this point the player agrees to draw only one more card and commit to their hand's outcome.
It is typically used when the player believes that adding one card on their first two cards will help them beat the dealer's hand.
Blackjack Double Down History
The history of the double down option is rooted in the game's strategic evolution. It emerged as a tactical move allowing players to increase their bets and make twice as much money compared to normal blackjack hands while committing to draw only one more card.
The term "double down" is thought to have originated in the 20th century, reflecting the action of the exponential increase of the stake, the praxis that exists in most casino games and strategies.
Introduction to Blackjack Double Down Strategy
Blackjack double down strategy is one of the best known bets in casino. Players double their initial bet after receiving original two cards to gain one more card. This strategic move is ideal when your hand is strong, and the dealer's card is weak, enhancing potential amount of money won and maximizing the chances of beating the dealer.
What Does Doubling Down in Blackjack Means and How Your Initial Bet Influences It?
"Double down" in blackjack refers to a strategic move where players can double their initial bet after receiving their initial two cards. By doing so, players agree to draw only one additional card.
The decision to double down is often influenced by the strength of the player's hand and the card the dealer is showing.
When Can Use Double Down Blackjack Strategy?
In blackjack, the option to double down is a pivotal strategic decision, and its availability varies depending on the casino's rulebook. It's typically allowed at just one point and that is after the initial deal of the first card.
The most common scenario for side bet is when a player's first card is valued at 10 or 11, as this gives them a strong chance of achieving a winning blackjack hand by just one more card being dealt. Some casinos may permit it on any initial card total, while others limit it to 9, 10 or 11.
How Many Cards Do You Get When You Double Down?
When you choose to double down in blackjack, you receive only one card additionally, regardless of the potential outcome. This means you can't request another hit, split your hand, surrender or take insurance.
While there are certain theoretical situations where a player may consider not adhering to specific table rules, such as always doubling down, the strategy is generally straightforward and profitable.
When to Double Down Bet in Blackjack
Knowing when to double down in blackjack is essential for effective strategy. Here are some main situations to consider:
Total of 10 or 11 - This is very strong position and widely accepted rule is to double down when your initial hand totals 10 or 11, as this offers the good chance of reaching 21 with just one extra card dealt.
Dealer's Weak Up-Card - If the dealer shows a lower card (2 through 6), it's a favorable situation to double down, especially with a total of 10 or 11.
Soft Hands - Many casinos allow players to double down on soft hands (those containing an Ace). In such cases, you can double down with an Ace-2 (soft 13) to Ace-6 (soft 17) against a dealer's low card.
Casino-Specific Rule - Some casinos may allow doubling down on any total, while others may restrict it to 9, 10 or 11.
Card Counting - Skilled card counters may adjust their doubling strategy based on the composition of the deck.
Always Double Down When You Have an Ace
Doubling down with an Ace in blackjack, specifically when you have an Ace-2 (soft 13) to Ace-6 (soft 17), is a strategic move that can be advantageous in the right circumstances. Here's the explanation:
Flexibility of the Ace - An Ace can have a flexible value of 1 or 11, making it a versatile card. When you play double down with a soft hand (one containing an Ace valued as 11), it can't happen going bust with only one extra card dealt.
Dealer's Weak Up-Card - You should play doubling down when having a soft total, particularly against the lower dealer card (2 through 6), is beneficial. The dealer is more likely to bust or end up with a weaker hand, while you have the flexibility to improve your hand.
Optimal Strategy - Basic blackjack strategy recommends doubling down with a soft hand in these situations as it statistically maximizes your expected return in the long run.
When Not to Double Down
There are situations when this is not advisable since it enhances the risk. Doubling down in blackjack should be avoided in these situations:
Weak Initial Hand - If your initial hand is weak, meaning it doesn't total 10 or 11, doubling down can be risky. Doubling a hand like 8 or 9 can put you in a disadvantageous position so its better to stick with your lower total.
Dealer's Strong Up-Card - When the dealer has a high card (7 through Ace), it's generally not a good idea to double down. The likelihood of the dealer having a stronger hand upon revealing second card increases.
Already at a High Total - If your initial hand already totals 12 or higher, doubling down can be overly risky. Drawing an additional card may lead to a bust.
Exceeding Your Bankroll - Double down increases your bet size. If you're reaching the limit of your bankroll, it's prudent to avoid this move to avoid inflicting a big hit to the budget.
Limited Knowledge - If you're not well-versed in blackjack strategies or don't understand some specific rule, it's safer to refrain from double down to avoid costly mistakes.
Never Double Down When the Dealer Has an Ace
Refraining from double down when the dealer is showing an Ace is generally a sound strategy in blackjack. Here's the explanation:
Risk of the Dealer's Natural Blackjack - There's a significant risk that a natural blackjack will happen when the dealer hit. If the player doubles down and the dealer indeed has a blackjack, you'll lose both your original bet and the doubled amount which creates big risk of going bust.
Reduced Advantage - Double down is usually most advantageous when the dealer shows a weak up-card (with value 2 through 6) because they are more likely to bust since the have to hit to catch up with you.
Basic Strategy - Basic strategy typically advises against double down in this situation simply because of it being too risky. It's a strategy designed to help players minimize potential losses.
Can you Double Down After Split?
Yes, you can double down after splitting a pair. This means you can double your bet after a pair being split, potentially increasing your overall wager. However, the specific rules regarding doubling down after splitting can vary from one casino to another, so it's essential to check the table rules before playing.
Signaling Your Intent to Make Double Down Bet
To signal your intent to use a double down option in blackjack, you should place an additional wager next to your original wager. This signals to the dealer and the other players that you want to double down. It's important to place the extra chips carefully to avoid any confusion and ensure your bet is correctly processed. It is important to remember that you cannot double down after hitting.
House Edge When Doubling Down
In certain casinos, this game is restricted to initial hands totaling 10 or 11, while casino rules in others extend this option to include a total of 9 or even all cards. In such cases, allowing doubling down on any two cards reduces the house edge by nearly 0.2% compared to the more limited option where is allowed solely on 10 or 11.
Important Considerations and Rules at Online Casinos
When doubling down while playing blackjack game at online casinos, consider these rules:
- Check the casino's specific game rules and limits for double down before playing.
- Be aware of variations in blackjack rules for double down between different online blackjack games.
- Stick to a sound blackjack strategy and avoid risky moves because any mistake can make a big hit to your budget.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the double down is a valuable tool for skilled players who want to play casino games in a more serious fashion. It is used to increase their bets and potential winnings in favorable situations. It's a high-risk, high-reward move that can give you good chances of win against casino.
Adhering to basic blackjack strategy and understanding the right moments to double down is crucial for a win the game. While not suitable for every hand, when used judiciously, the double down can be a powerful asset in a player's arsenal.
