Double down bet is one of the most thrilling moves in blackjack games. Learn what it means and why it is the most sought bet by pro players.
Blackjack is a popular card game that attracts low and high roller players. To be successful in any blackjack game, you require optimal strategy and skills. If you are new to blackjack, you need to understand the different bets you can play. Double down is the most popular bet that you will find in all blackjack games. With this bet, you get the chance to boost your initial bet by up to 100%. However, knowing the best time to double down is vital in blackjack. There are three situations when doubling down is allowed, and it guarantees you big winnings if done in the right way. Of course, the best time to double down your bet is when you have an advantage over the dealer. Keep reading to understand how double down works in blackjack and why you should always opt for this hand.
When to Double Down in Blackjack
The objective of playing blackjack is to beat the dealer's hand. Whenever you find that you have a mathematical probability of beating the dealer, that's the time to strike. As you may be aware, there are certain hands in blackjack that are best to take advantage of. The three best moments to double down are:
The Total of your Cards Equal 11
The time the total of your cards is 11 is considered the best for doubling down your hand. The reason is if you have an eleven, one or more cards could land on blackjack or get a figure close to it. Many people choose this moment because it is hard to break 21.
When You Have a Hard 9 or 10
A hard hand in blackjack is when an ace is not involved. Whenever you find yourself with a hard nine or ten, the best option is to double down if the dealer has a lower card. You stand a good chance of winning against the dealer if one of them is in the cards.
When You Have a Soft 16, 17 or 18
A soft hand is when you have an ace and another card. Many players know that an ace card guarantees massive wins because it boosts your chances of hitting or getting a hand close to 21. However, you must only double down when the dealer shows a low-value card.
When Not to Double Down in Blackjack
Nevertheless, there are situations when doubling down in blackjack is not recommended. Never think of making this move in the following conditions:
Dealer Has an Ace Card
We all know that ace is a very powerful card in blackjack; that is why it is advised not to double down in such a case. The odds are always in favor of the house to get a blackjack or a hand closer to 21.
Player's Hand is Greater than 11
If your hand exceeds eleven, you should never opt for a double-down option in blackjack. A hand that is close to 11 has very high chances of busting. If you are not 100% sure, don't risk doubling down.
Doubling Down on a Split in Blackjack
The best thing about casinos is that they allow you to double down on a split. However, this happens in a rare situation and can only be done by expert players. Splitting in blackjack is when you divide two into two hands. In this case, a player may be lucky to split bad hands into better hands; thus, a player can double a bet whenever the dealer busts.
How to Double Down and Split in Blackjack
As aforementioned, you double down by placing another bet of the same value as the original bet. Once you double down the bet amount, you only receive one additional card, and then you stand. On the other hand, you split if you have two cards of the same value in one hand. The cards are split into two hands, and each hand you double down with receives one additional card. Therefore, it is possible for you to double down and split at the same time. Also, you can double down after splitting a pair to get more chances of winning.
What to Consider When Doubling Down in Blackjack
One crucial factor to consider when doubling down in blackjack is the rules of the casino. The basic rules will tell when it is the right time to double down or not.
Many land-based and online casinos will allow you to double down when your cards total up to 10 or 11. However, if your hand has any other value, you play normally.
It's essential to keep an eye on the value the dealer must hit up to because it affects how likely they bust. Remember, some games allow the dealer to hit up to 17, while others hit up to 16. The higher chances a hand has of going bust is the best moment to double down.
Pay attention to the dealer; if he checks for a blackjack when he is dealt an ace or a higher value card, it means he doesn't have a 'blackjack.'
By following the simple tips, you significantly increase your chances of winning when doubling down in blackjack.
Conclusion
Now that you understand doubling down, you can join any blackjack table game and put your skills to the test. Remember, you can only make this move in certain favorable situations. In as much as this double down hand is profitable, it is not recommended if you are not sure. It is highly advisable to go through the rules of the casino and the game of blackjack you are playing.
