Double down is one of the most exciting moves in blackjack. It allows you to double your bet in the middle of the hand in exchange for receiving only one card. This is a risky move as it usually ends your betting - you can't ask for a card again, even if you get a particularly weak second card.
This can lead to more timid players who avoid the double bet and more adventurous players who do it too often. It's important to try to strike a balance between reasonably safe play such as using a statistical strategy and risky double-downs to maximize your potential profits. We strongly recommend that you save this article and use it as a handy reference when playing online at any of the best blackjack casino sites.
When to double down
Fortunately, the basic blackjack strategies are explained in detail, using mathematical probability designed to tell you exactly when it is best (in the long run) to double down. There are three situations where it is best to double down.
Solid 9 against low croupier cards
When you are dealt a total of 9, double down when the dealer shows a card between 2 and 6 (each card under 7, not including Ace). This should be a solid 9; which means you don't have Ace - so the combinations can be 2-7, 3-6 or 4-5. If you have an A-8 (soft 9), it is best to pass, regardless of what the croupier shows.
Soft 16 to 18 against low croupier cards
If you have an Ace and/ or 5, 6 or 7 give you a soft sum of 16 to 18 and if the croupier shows a card of 2 to 6, this is a great time to double your bet. With Ace and a lower card (2 to 4), it's better to just want a new one, since you're less likely to end up with a high hand.
- A solid 10 or 11 against any lower croupier card
- A solid 10 or 11 puts you in a powerful position - that is, with any two cards, no aces, making 10 or 11 (2-8, 2-9, 3-7, 3-8, 4-6, 4-7, 5-6). If the croupier has a lower amount, it's time to double down.
Pay attention to the rules
In almost every Blackjack game, this strategy must work. However, keep in mind that Blackjack rules vary across casinos, which may affect your decisions. If it is possible to double with 3 or more cards, then you may find extra hands when you could double down, so pay attention to the total amount.
On the other hand, you can find situations where the rules say you can't double and the strategy says you should - for example, on soft hands (those with aces). If you can't double down when you want, be sure to ask for a new card.
Frequently Asked Questions - Double Down in Blackjack
A double down in Blackjack allows the player to double his bet after receiving his original two cards. You then receive one - only one - additional card. Then you are against the croupier to find out who is winning.
The player doubles down because the situation seems positive, so he risks more to win more. Because you can control when to double down, this is a powerful tool for the player to spot the perfect opportunity. Here are some specific cases where it's worth knowing where you stand.
Can you double down after requesting a new card?
The player cannot ask for a new card and then chooses to double down, the double down option only appears after the original two cards have been dealt by the croupier and the player then has to decide whether to double down or not. The ability to double down is limited so far in one hand.
Can you split and double down?
It is important for the player to understand the optimal situations to split and double down. A player may split his cards if a matching pair is dealt to him, e.g. 5-5, 7-7, J-J.
The player has to cover the second hand with the size of the first bet and the dealer has a second card to fill in with both hands. Further doubling down is usually not allowed. Always check the rules of the casino, whether you are playing live or online, as there are often conditions hidden in the rules designed to encourage players to play.
Do you always have to double down at 11?
As the player and the croupier aim to get as close as possible to 21 to win the hand, the player is in a strong position when holding 11 after two cards are dealt. If the croupier shows a card lower than 10, it's a good idea to double down.
If casino rules dictate that the croupier should require a soft 17, then you should always double down at 11, regardless of the open croupier card.
Try this strategy without risking money with our free blackjack, which you will find in the Casino games section.
