Blackjack, an iconic casino classic, hides so much depth for casual players who may not know everything there is about its mechanics and techniques. While everyone recognizes they must get as close to or exactly 21 in value as possible when making their hands, not all know there are alternative approaches they could try to reach this goal.
Doubling down is one strategy that can often increase players’ winning potential, yet comes with considerable risk and may not always be favorable to novices without adequate knowledge about its proper execution.
What is doubling down and understanding its usage in blackjack
Once the first two cards are dealt to a player, they have a couple of options to consider. They can continue to be dealt more cards to try and get closer to 21, or they can stand and stick with those that have been provided if they are happy with the outcome.
However, those who wish to add a further dimension to their blackjack gameplay can begin to implement a doubling down strategy. It is one that should only ever be used when a strong starting hand is being held. This is because the method is used to try and double the prize that is trying to be won. One caveat of the strategy is that players must stand once they receive their extra card, hence the importance of their starting hand strength.
Players who wish to double down should consider certain starting hands and their strength before using the technique. The best hands are those that total values of 9, 10, or 11, and do not come with an ace. If an ace is held, then it is best to double down when a value of 16, 17, or 18 is being held. However, it is also advisable never to double down when the dealer has an ace or if your cards have a total that is greater than 11 and no ace is held.
Many live casino blackjack variants will be favorable for the strategy to be used, but it is always wise to take a look at each one closely in terms of its rules. Games that have rules that include the dealer standing on a soft 17 or the ability to double after splitting hands can often be the best options to choose if implementing this playing style.
How to master the doubling down strategy
Mastering when and why to double down can be challenging, requiring practice, patience, dedication and effort from individuals.
As already noted, high-risk strategies carry with them the potential for negative outcomes when employed. Players need to remain calm throughout this strategy as there will be losses on occasion; an expectation about when losses may happen should also be in place.
Bankroll management is key in any casino game and should never be disregarded. Bettors need to exercise self-discipline when placing bets; making decisions only when their starting hand strength warrants such action. Recklessness with bets should never be encouraged as part of an attempt at recovering losses; instead, they should focus on building their bankroll rather than seeking revenge on previous losses through any strategy employed in play.
When to Avoid Doubling Down
As noted throughout, doubling down should only be done when the conditions are right. Therefore, there are times when playing blackjack when this strategy should be avoided.
The types of starting hands that are obtained and should avoid using the method have already been stated. The reason behind this – depending on the hands that are dealt – is because the risk-to-reward ratio is not in the player’s favor, or the dealer has a higher chance of obtaining blackjack.
Should you double down when playing blackjack?
Doubling down can be an immensely profitable strategy in blackjack, but those who use this tactic need a high degree of expertise before using it successfully.
Such tactics carry great risk but, when executed effectively, can bring great returns – though doing so also raises several risks that can negatively alter the gameplay experience.
If doubling down is something desired, then it is advisable to fully comprehend all that lies behind its application and practice as much as possible to perfect its art.