Double Down Strategy in Blackjack - When To and Not To Do?

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Blackjack, also known as twenty-one, is a popular card game played in casinos around the world. While luck plays a significant role, skilled players employ various strategies to increase their chances of winning. One such strategy that has gained attention among blackjack enthusiasts is the Double Down strategy.

In this article, we will explore the Double Down strategy in blackjack, its principles, when and how to use it, and its potential advantages and risks. So, let's delve into the world of Double Down and discover how it can potentially improve your blackjack gameplay.

What Is Blackjack’s Double Down?

It goes without saying that when playing blackjack, players need to place a bet before the dealer deals the card. The betting limit is determined by each blackjack table that you intend to play. During the game process, there will be no need for players to make another bet. 

However, when you choose to double down, you are allowed to place another bet and hit just one more card. In loose languages, this playing option is defined:

Double down = double your stake + hit another card + stand

After doubling down, your hand is over; you stand on the hand and wait until the dealer’s card is revealed.

If you want to apply this strategy, it is important for you to check if blackjack double down is available in a game’s rules. Some blackjack variants accept a double down on any hand’s total, while some allow players to double down on a total of either 9, 10, or 11.

When Should Double Down and How To Do So?

When to double down always presents a stinker as it is a thrilling move. You can gain the edge over the dealer or lose the game and your bet in a matter of minutes if you do not have any idea of when the best time is. There are the most recommended times that blackjack lovers should place a blackjack double down bet:

When you are dealt a hard 9 or 10

A hard hand of 9 value consists of two cards that generate a total of 9 and doesn’t consist of an Ace. These two cards include either two and seven (2+7), three and six (3+6), or four and five (4+5).

Similarly, if you have a hard hand of 10 value, it can be implied that the two cards you are dealt are either two and eight (2+8), three and seven (3+7), or four and six (4+6). 

Once the dealer shows that he has low cards, the probability is in your favor. Obviously, you cannot go bust with your hand, and the dealer risks exceeding 21 as he has to hit until they get a total of 17, according to almost all blackjack’s rules.

When your hand value is 11

Once you have a total of 11, the chance of getting a blackjack is more likely in your favor. Even if you do not reach it, your hand value will undoubtedly be an astounding number when you decide to double down.

When you have a soft 16, 17 or 18

A soft hand of 16, 17, or 18 means you hold a card and an Ace along with a 5, 6, or 7. If the dealer’s card is lower than yours, grab this chance and double down. Ace can be counted as 1 or 11; therefore, you can make your hand a better one only by hitting just a single card.

Read more: Basic Rules And Tips To Win in Atlantic City Blackjack

When Not To Make a Blackjack Double Down?

It is important to know when not to double down. Here are cases that you should not do that:

When the dealer shows he has an Ace

It leaves no doubt that when the dealer’s upcard is an Ace, he has a very good chance to hit blackjack or get a hand value that is as close as 21.

When you get a hand that is higher than an 11

The probability of going over is high enough to ruin your hand and the game. Therefore, you had better hit a low-value card and hope that the dealer goes bust.

Some Tips When Doubling Down in Blackjack

Always learn casinos’ rules to see if doubling down is allowed.
Some casinos allow players to double down at any value, while some do not. Carefully research the casino you intend to play at.

• Keep an eye on the value that the dealer must hit up to.

This will let you know how likely they go bust, so you can apply this strategy more efficiently.

• Always double down on an 11

If you are a casual player, double down on an 11 is a feasible option.

• If I have blackjack, can I double down?

The answer is, “No.” Once you have a blackjack, you will be paid immediately.

• How many cards do you have after doubling down?

One extra card is dealt after you decide to double down on your hand.

Things You Should Pay Attention To When Doubling Down

Can I double down after splitting?

Little do casinos allow you to double down after splitting. However, there are exceptions. Get insights into the casino you want to play at, or contact the casino to get more information.

Should I double down on a hand of 11?

Yes, you should. This is truly a good time for casual players to win against the dealer. Read double down strategy to know more.

Double down on a 10?

It depends on the dealer’s faceup card. If the dealer shows low-value cards, doubling down is a feasible option.

Conclusion

Double down will certainly make your gambling experience more thrilling than ever. If you want to understand this strategy more, you should play blackjack in free versions. You will not need to make any deposit while being able to apply the strategy in a practical way. Besides, absorbing tips on how to play blackjack and how to win blackjack will definitely hone your knowledge and skills to win against this casino game.