In blackjack, doubling down can be a strategic move. It involves doubling your bet mid-hand, but there's a catch: you only get one more card. The trick is knowing when taking this bold step is appropriate. Although there's still an element of chance to blackjack, a fair bit of strategy is involved.
This decision can swing the game in your favour, giving you a chance to double your winnings if the draw appears to go your way. But it's a bit like a tightrope walk - thrilling, yet still risky.
Here at Star Slots casino, we aim to guide you through the ins and outs of doubling down to help you make more informed choices at the table. We'll keep it simple and easy so that even beginners can grasp the concept. Let's dive in and learn when to double down, shall we?
What Is a Double Down Bet In Blackjack?
A 'double down' bet involves betting extra chips (the same amount as your initial bet) on your turn - so after you've seen your hand and the dealer's upcard.
Here's the catch: after you double your bet, you receive just one more card. No more, no less. That's your final hand, so you've got to be wise about when to make this move. Essentially, you're betting on your hand being in a strong enough position to potentially win after receiving just one more card.
This option adds an exciting twist to the game, letting you increase your potential winnings when the odds seem to be leaning in your favour. But remember, it's a gamble. You could go bust with the additional card, or the card may not be as helpful as you hoped.
Simply put, doubling down is a calculated risk that can make or break your game round. It's a tool in your blackjack toolkit which could allow you to take advantage of a strong position after the draw.
When Should You Double Down In Blackjack?
Doubling down in blackjack can be advantageous, but it can also be a risky move. So, when is the right moment to take this leap?
- Hand Value of 11: If your cards add up to 11, it's a good time to double down. There is a chance that you could receive a 10 or an Ace to make 21, but even if you don't, it's impossible to go bust in this position.
- Hand Value of 10: When your hand totals 10, and the dealer is showing a card less than 10, doubling down can be a smart move. You're in a strong position to get close to 21.
- Soft 16, 17, or 18 (That's an Ace counted as 11, plus a 5, 6, or 7): If the dealer's card is low, say 2 through 6, this could be a good opportunity. Your Ace gives you flexibility.
Remember: There's always a risk. Doubling down means you're putting more money on the table, and it's still possible to go bust in certain situations. Make sure to place bets with your budget at the forefront of any decisions.
And one more thing: Not every game or casino allows you to double down on any total, so knowing the house rules is crucial.
When Is It Best Not To Double Down?
While doubling down in blackjack can be a clever move, there are moments when it's wise to hold back. Knowing when not to double down is just as important as knowing when to make the move.
- When the Dealer Shows an Ace or a 10: If the dealer's upcard is strong, like an Ace or a 10, the odds of the dealer getting a solid hand are high. In these cases, doubling down might increase your risk of losing more.
- Your Hand Totals 11, But the Dealer Shows a 10: Although having a total of 11 is often a good time to double down, if the dealer is showing a 10, it's better to play it safe and just hit. The chances of the dealer ending up with a strong hand are just too high.
- You Have a Hand Higher Than 11: When your hand totals more than 11, the risk of busting (or going over 21) increases if you take one more card. Keep your bet as is and decide to hit or stand based on traditional basic strategy.
Being cautious in these scenarios doesn't mean you're not playing to win; it means you're playing smart, thinking ahead, and managing your risks.
How Do You Signal a Double Down In Blackjack?
When playing blackjack at a physical table, knowing how to signal your intentions to the dealer is part of the game's etiquette. To signal a double down, the process is simple but must be done correctly.
- Put Extra Chips Next to Your Initial Bet: Without touching your original bet, place an additional stack of chips next to it. This stack should be equal to your initial bet, indicating you wish to double down. Ensure that the chips are not placed on top of the original bet, as this can cause confusion.
- Use Your Hand to Signal: In some casinos, alongside placing your additional bet, you might need to use a hand signal. Extend one finger to signify you want just one card. This is a universal gesture that clearly tells the dealer your decision.
Remember, once you've signalled for a double down, there's no going back. You're committed to the move, and the dealer will give you one additional card. Make sure this is the move you want to make before you signal. Understanding these simple steps ensures smooth gameplay and respects the flow of the game at the table.
Blackjack Double Down Payout Example
Understanding the payout of a double down in blackjack is quite straightforward. Let's break it down with an easy example.
Imagine you're at the blackjack table, and you've placed a bet of £10 on a hand. You're dealt two cards that total 11, and feeling confident, you decide to double down. This means you place another £10 bet, for a total of £20 now riding on this single hand.
The dealer gives you one more card, and it's a 9. Your total is now 20. The dealer finishes their hand and ends up with a total less than yours.
Since you've won and you doubled down, your payout is twice what you would usually get for winning. Instead of winning another £10 on your initial bet, you win £20 because you doubled your bet. So, you now have your original £20 bet back, plus another £20 in winnings.
Although it's possible for such an outcome, it's important to remember that it's a gamble, and the extra card you get could have gone the other way. Always weigh the risk and your confidence in your hand before deciding to double down. Also, always gamble responsibly and never chase your losses.
Blackjack Double Down FAQs
Can You Double Down on a Split?
Yes, in most blackjack games, you can double down on a split. Splitting gives you two separate hands, and if the rules allow, you can double your bet on one or both of these hands. Splitting has to be done before hitting, so doubling down is still an option.
Can You Double Down After Hitting?
No, you can't double down after hitting. The option to double down comes immediately after you receive your first two cards. If you decide to hit and take an additional card, the chance to double down is off the table since doubling down is essentially betting on a single hit giving you a strong enough hand to win.
Should You Always Double Down on an 11?
While doubling down on an 11 is often seen as a good move because of the high chances of getting a strong hand, it's not always advisable. If the dealer's upcard is a 10 or an Ace, it means they are likely to have a strong hand, so the risk may outweigh the potential reward. It's all about weighing the odds.
Do You Have To Take Another Card If You Double Down?
Yes, when you double down, you must take exactly one more card. It's part of the gamble – increasing your bet for the chance of improving your hand with just one more card. Remember, after you double down, you can't hit again; that one card is all you get, and then your turn ends.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins, etc.) mentioned in relation to this game are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.