Being good at blackjack requires technique, but winning large at blackjack requires patience and understanding of when to double down.
Blackjack double down is a thrilling play and one of the most famous blackjack wagers. However, many people are unaware of the delicacies of the move and how crucial timing is. When done correctly, you might significantly increase your winnings.
In this piece, we will analyze when to double down in blackjack. We will also look at some situations when you shouldn’t double down.
Let’s Start!
What Does Blackjack Double Down Mean?
Before dealing with the cards, an opening wager is put. You won’t be allowed to put any extra wager in most cases.
However, the double-down wager is unique. The double-down option lets you put an extra wager equal to your initial for one additional card. Your round is over when you receive the third card, and you must check what the dealer holds.
Before you start a game, be sure to take a look at the variations guidelines. In several variations, you can only double down on a sum of 9, 10, or 11. Whereas, in some variations, there are no total restrictions for doubling down.
When to Double Down?
The primary objective of blackjack is to outsmart the dealer. If you believe you have a statistical advantage, here is your chance! In general, certain hands are more helpful to exploit, such as:
1. When All of Your Cards Add Up to 11
In blackjack, this is by far the most common and effective time to double down. That’s because if you have an eleven, there’s a considerable possibility that one more card will bring you near blackjack. At least, you won’t hit 21. So, when the total cards are equal to 11, most people opt to double down.
2. When Your Hand Is 9 or 10
If you find yourself in this situation and the croupier is holding a lesser card, it’s a good time to double down. If there is an ace in the cards, you have an incredible opportunity to defeat the dealer.
3. When You’re Carrying a 16,17 or 18
A “soft” hand is one in which you hold an ace and another card. When playing blackjack, it’s known that an ace may be a major moneymaker because it boosts your statistical possibilities of striking or going extremely near to 21. However, don’t lose your patience when you receive that vital ace. Only double down if the croupier is holding a lesser card.
When You Shouldn’t Double Down
We understand that doubling down is exciting. However, doubling down too often to boost your win might backfire. There are some situations where it is a horrible idea, and you will quickly lose a lot of money. In the following scenarios, you should never double down:
1. When the Dealer Is Holding an Ace
When playing blackjack, an ace is a powerful card to have on your deck. If you see one on the table, do not double down! They have a good chance of hitting blackjack or getting extremely close to 21.
2. When Your Cards Are Higher Than 11
Unfortunately, if your hard hand is greater than 11, your odds of losing are just too great to consider doubling down. If you’re ever doubtful, it’s best to wait off and avoid taking a chance.
More Double Down Blackjack Strategies
With these added tips and strategies, you’ll know when to double down or remain with your original bet:
- When you’re ready to take the risk, just place a stack of chips next to your existing stake to announce your double down. Avoid piling fresh chips on top of old ones, since they might interpret this as interfering with your wager. Remember that your double-down wager must always equal your initial wager.
- When you have an 11, it’s usually always a smart decision to double down for most people, especially those who are new at blackjack.
- After splitting, you can not double down. When you get two cards of the same number, you have the choice of splitting them into two different hands and receiving two fresh cards from the dealer. While some internet gambling sites may allow it, most land-based casinos will not.
- After hitting, you cannot double down. Hitting means taking a new card. Double down is available only after dealing with the first two cards.
Look for These Things Before Blackjack Double Down
One thing to remember before you double down is the casino’s limits. The basic rules of the casino will tell you when you can double down. Most casinos only enable players to double down only if they have a hand of 10 or 11.
Pay close attention to the value the dealer must strike up as well. Why? This affects their likelihood of being beyond 21. The dealer can hit up to 17, but other games only permit them to strike up to 16, making it harder to go over 21.
It is a good idea to place a double-down wager if you are expecting your hand to surpass 21.
Finally, after getting an Ace or a 10-value card, verify if the dealer checks for a blackjack. If nobody has a blackjack, the game continues as normal. When you place a double-down wager, your odds of winning increase dramatically. However, if anybody has a blackjack, the game ends there and nobody wins.
Bottom Line
Now that you know more about the Blackjack double down, it’s time to hit the casino floor. Just remember when it’s a good thing to take a chance and when it’s preferable to avoid it. If you’re confused about whether to double your wager or not, it’s better to remain with your initial investment rather than potentially lose twice the cash.
