Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games around the world. The game is all about making the right decisions at the right time. One of the most exciting and strategic moves in blackjack is doubling down. Doubling down can be a risky move, but it can also be a lucrative one. Knowing when to double down in blackjack can differentiate between winning and losing big.
In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of doubling down in blackjack and provide some tips on when to use this move effectively. Whether you’re a seasoned blackjack player or a beginner, understanding the double-down strategy can help you maximize your winnings and have more fun. So, let’s get started!
What is Double Down in Blackjack?
In blackjack, doubling down is a strategic move allowing the player to double their initial bet in exchange for one additional card. This move is usually made when the player is confident they have a strong hand and can beat the dealer.
When a player decides to double down, they place an additional bet equal to their original bet and receive one more card. After the card is dealt, the player’s turn is over, and the dealer continues with their hand. If the player wins, they receive double their original bet, but if they lose, they lose both their original and additional bets.
It’s important to note that not all blackjack games allow doubling down. Understanding the rules and restrictions of doubling down before making a move is essential, as the rules may vary depending on the casino or table.
Doubling down can be risky, but it can also be lucrative if made at the right time. Knowing when to double down is a crucial aspect of playing blackjack and can help increase your chances of winning big.
When To Double Down In Blackjack
If you’re planning on placing a blackjack double-down bet, there are three times:
When your cards add up to 11
It’s for this reason that you have a high chance of hitting 21, and even if you don’t, you’re likely to get a high score.
When you hold a soft 16, 17, or 18.
It would help if you typically doubled down when the dealer shows a low card. With a soft 18, you can stay as you are. However, one card can make all the difference in your hand.
When you have a hard 9 or 10.
If the dealer displays a low card, it must be displayed to the customer. A reasonably high card will give you an excellent chance of winning against the dealer. It is important to remember that double downing will only sometimes pay off. Over time, though, this tactic will increase your winnings if you use it properly.
When Not to Use the Double Down Blackjack Option
Regarding gambling, doubling down on 11 is generally an excellent idea, while doubling down on 10 is usually a winning strategy. What about other situations?
Some casinos allow you to double down on nines, while others let you double down regardless of your cards, but these strategies are rarely beneficial. It is unlikely to win by doubling down on anything less than a nine.
In some cases, doubling down a nine against a dealer could be a winning move, but only marginally. However, you should remember that when the dealer displays a six or lower, you should only consider doubling your bet if it is a similar number.
When the dealer also holds a ten, you should not double down on your ten if they have one. You should keep up on your ten if the dealer shows an ace. You don’t need a huge bankroll to do this. This game relies on fundamental math.
Any player who receives an eleven or higher should only double down if they have a soft hand. You have too much of a chance of busting.
Doubling Down at Different Blackjack Tables
You should ensure you know the rules of the table you will be playing at before using the blackjack double-down strategy I explained.
The online casino has slightly different rules for a blackjack game, some of which are related directly to the double-down feature. Casino dealers, for instance, will always check for blackjack when showing an ace. It means you can double down if they need to get 21. If they do not have 21 and the action continues, they don’t have 21.
Further, it would help if you inquired whether or not the dealer is obliged to deal with up to 16 or 17. Additionally, consider whether to double down often since hitting at 16 increases the likelihood of a bust. In addition, inquire whether the casino allows you to double down at eleven or if other options are available. Please split your nine as well and use it occasionally.
Besides this, there will be few blackjack rules differences between casinos and local poker rooms. If you play a good basic strategy and double down when necessary, you are guaranteed to increase your profits per hand.
Things To Look For When Doubling Down In Blackjack Strategy
One thing you need to keep in mind when doubling down is the casino’s rules. Essentially, they will tell you if you are allowed to double down or not.
Many casinos usually allow you to double down when your hand totals 10 or 11, and if your hand totals anything else, you’ll have to continue the game as normal (unless you have the option to split, of course). Additionally, pay attention to the maximum value that the dealer must hit. Why? It has an impact on the likelihood that they will go over 21.
The dealer can hit up to 17, but in some games, it is only allowed to hit up to 16. Therefore, there is a lower probability of topping 21. Consider placing a double-down blackjack bet if they are more likely to go over 21.
When the dealer receives an ace or a 10-value card, observe whether they check for online blackjack – if they do and the game continues, there is no blackjack. That is why placing a double-down wager almost always increases your chances of winning. You’ll likely have blackjack since everyone loses once the hand stops there (except for the ones with blackjack).
FAQs
Can you Double Down after Hitting?
The player cannot hit and then decide to place a double down after the dealer has dealt them the initial two cards. The player has to decide whether or not to perform the double-down action at the point of the two cards being dealt by the dealer. As with all double-down opportunities, this opportunity is limited to this point.
Is it possible to split and double down?
Players need to know when to split and double down. A player can split a card with a matching pair, like 5-5, 7-7, or J-J.
A player’s second-hand bet must equal the first if they wish to cover it, and a second card will be dealt to complete the hand. It is usually not possible to double down again. Checking the rules before playing live or online is always a good idea. It is because there are often a lot of incentives hidden within them that are designed to encourage players to try their luck.
Should you Always Double Down on 11?
When a player holds 11 after two cards, he or she is in a very strong position. This is because the player and dealer are trying to get to 21 as soon as possible in order to win. It is a good idea to double down when the dealer has a card lower than 10.
The dealer must hit a soft 17 under casino rules, so it always makes sense to double down on 11. To find the best online casinos in your state and the best bonuses, enter your state below. Once you know when and how to double down when playing blackjack, find out which casinos are the best in your state.
Can you double down after splitting?
It is generally impossible to double down after splitting, but some online casinos may allow you to do this in certain circumstances.
Whenever you have the double-down option after splitting, decide the same way you would when evaluating other hands.
Can you double down on 21 in blackjack?
It’s not possible to double down on 21. Surely everyone would do this if the croupier dealt them a blackjack every time they were dealt to them! Whenever you get a blackjack, you’ll find that the dealer pays you right away, and you can only do something else with the hand if you have a blackjack.
Can the Dealer Double Down?
The dealer in blackjack follows a set of fixed rules, typically hitting (taking additional cards) until their hand reaches a certain total, often 17 or higher. The dealer does not have the discretion to double down or make other strategic decisions like players can.
