When to Double Down in Blackjack: Double Down Blackjack Strategy
Blackjack is one of the most popular and strategic card games in the casino world. Known for its blend of luck and skill, players are constantly seeking ways to improve their chances of winning. One critical aspect of blackjack strategy is the decision to double down.
This move, when used correctly, can significantly enhance a player's potential for profit. This guide will explore the concept of doubling down, the rules associated with it, and the best strategies for determining when to use this powerful option.
What Does 'Double Down' Mean in Blackjack?
'Doubling down' in blackjack means making the decision to double your initial bet in exchange for committing to stand after one more card. This move can only be made immediately after the initial two cards are dealt.
The idea behind doubling down is to capitalize on situations where you think you have an advantageous hand. So, by increasing your bet, you stand to win more money if the hand turns out in your favor. The double down option is an important part of basic blackjack strategy and can turn the tide of the game when used properly.
Historically, the double down option has been a part of blackjack since the early 20th century, reflecting the game's evolution and the development of advanced strategies. Understanding when and how to double down can significantly improve your payout.
Blackjack Double Down Rules
To effectively double down in blackjack, it's key to understand the rules around it. Here are the standard rules and some variations you might encounter:
Standard Rules for Doubling Down in Blackjack
- When Players Can Double Down:
Players are allowed to double down only after receiving their initial two cards. This decision must be made before taking any further actions, such as hitting or standing. - Amount Players Can Wager:
The amount wagered when doubling down is typically equal to the player's original bet. This means if you initially bet $10, you can double down with an additional $10, making your total bet $20. - Receiving One Additional Card:
After doubling down, the player will receive exactly one more card to complete their hand. No further hits are allowed, so the player must rely on this single card to improve their hand.
Variations of the Double Down Rules
While the basic rules of doubling down are fairly consistent, there are some variations depending on the casino or specific blackjack variant you are playing:
| Rule | Differences |
|---|---|
| Doubling Down on Any Two Cards | Some casinos allow players to double down on any initial hand, while others restrict this option to specific hands (for example, totals of 9, 10, or 11). |
| Doubling Down After Splitting Pairs | In some blackjack games, players are allowed to double down after splitting a pair, effectively doubling their bet on multiple hands. |
These rule variations can affect the player's doubling down strategy. It's crucial to understand the specific rules of the table you're playing at to adjust your strategy accordingly.
'Splitting a pair'?
Splitting a pair in blackjack means splitting your hand into two separate hands after you've been dealt two cards of the same value (a 'pair'). You are then dealt two more cards, one for each hand, and your bet is doubled. These hands are both played normally, but they provide multiple chances to beat the dealer.
When to Double Down in Blackjack?
The decision to double down in blackjack hinges on the player's hand and the dealer's upcard. Using basic strategy as a guide, you can make a decision on the optimal time to double down. Here’s a breakdown of when to double down.
General Strategy for Doubling Down
Basic strategy charts, which use statistical analysis, provide guidelines on when to double down. These charts take into account the player's total and the dealer's upcard, offering the best move in each scenario.
Let’s explore some common situations where doubling down is recommended.
Situations When You Should Double Down*
- Hard Totals of 9, 10, and 11:
Total of 9: Double down when you have a total of 9 and the dealer's upcard is between 3 and 6. This is because the dealer is more likely to bust with these upcards.
Total of 10: Double down when you have a total of 10 and the dealer's upcard is between 2 and 9. The player's chances of making a strong hand (19 or 20) are high.
Total of 11: Double down when the player has a total of 11, regardless of the dealer’s upcard. The chances of hitting a 10 and making a total of 21 are significant. - Soft Totals:
Soft 16-18 (Ace + 5 to Ace + 7): Double down when you have a soft total and the dealer’s upcard is between 4 and 6. Soft hands offer flexibility, and doubling down in these situations takes advantage of the dealer’s weak position.
*This is a subjective view of when to choose to double down, and therefore applying this strategy won't guarantee that you will win your hand.
Situations to Avoid Doubling Down
- Dealer Shows an Ace or a 10-Value Card:
When the dealer has an Ace or a 10-value card (Jack, Queen, King), the chances of the dealer having a strong hand are high. Doubling down in these situations is risky and generally not advisable. The only exception here would be if you have a hand with a hard 9, 10 or 11 - in those scenarios we'd still advise doubling down. - Player’s Hand Totals Do Not Fit Standard Doubling Scenarios:
If the total of you hand doesn't fit any of the standard doubling down scenarios (e.g., hard 9, 10, or 11, or soft 16-18), it's usually best to avoid doubling down.
Importance of Table Rules and Variations
Understanding the specific rules of the table is crucial for nailing your doubling down strategy. Some casinos have rules that may favor the player, such as allowing doubling down on any two cards or after splitting pairs. Conversely, other rules may be less favorable, and knowing these details can help you make better decisions.
Some Example Situations for Doubling Down
To better understand when to double down, let’s walk through some examples:
Example 1: Player Hand – 10, Dealer Upcard – 6:
The player has a total of 10, and the dealer shows a 6. According to basic strategy, this is an ideal situation to double down. The player doubles their bet and receives one more card. If the player gets a face card, their total becomes 20, a strong hand against the dealer's likely weak hand.
Example 2: Player Hand – A-7, Dealer Upcard – 5:
The player has a soft 18, and the dealer shows a 5. Doubling down here is a smart move because the player can improve their hand significantly with one more card, and the dealer is in a weak position.
Example 3: Player Hand – 11, Dealer Upcard – 10:
The player has a total of 11, and the dealer shows a 10. Despite the dealer's strong upcard, doubling down is still recommended because the player has a high probability of making 21 with the next card.
Use Our FREE Blackjack Calculator
If you're new to the concept of doubling down, then it's a good idea to use a blackjack calculator to test out different hands.
Our free Blackjack Calculator allows you to test various blackjack hands against example dealer hands. This allows you to check the decisions you should make in various scenarios and the odds of winning with a particular hand.
Use our FREE Blackjack Calculator
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Double Down Blackjack FAQs
Can I double down after splitting a pair?
It depends on the casino's rules. Some casinos allow doubling down after a split, while others do not. Always check the specific rules of the table you’re playing at.
What happens if I double down and receive a very low card?
Unfortunately, after doubling down, you cannot take any more hits. This is why it’s crucial to double down only in statistically favorable situations.
Is it always advisable to double down on a total of 11?
Yes, doubling down on a total of 11 is generally advisable because the odds of drawing a 10 and making 21 are high, making it one of the most advantageous hands for doubling down.
Should I always follow basic strategy charts?
Basic strategy charts are developed through extensive statistical analysis and provide the best moves in each situation. While they are highly recommended, always be aware of specific table rules that might influence your decisions.