A politician who makes a wacky statement that shocks the multitudes only to repeat it with ferocity only days later is said to be "doubling down". But you want to know what it means when you are sitting on a well-felted table playing Blackjack, not in the universe at large. So, let's get to that.
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The double down
To double down is to increase your initial bet - by two times. It is considered the sweetest thing about the game – by its hardcore fans. Imagine this. You are sitting at a Blackjack table. You are dealt a 6 and a 4. The dealer is showing an 8. How awesome that you can choose to double down and increase your potential winnings. Are you with us? Sure you are.
Most casinos will let you double down after you've received two cards. Notice the "most" – some casinos will only let you double down if you are holding 10 or 11 points. Reading the rules before you take you seat will inform you of the house rules.
Tips on doubling down
- The idea behind doubling down is that you make the most of the best hands you are dealt. Do keep in mind that while you might win more, you could also lose more.
- Prime conditions for doubling down include a dealer with a weak hand and you having a strong hand. If the dealer looks like she is in danger of a bust, all the better.
- Know that when the dealer is showing a 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, it indicates a relatively good chance that they are in for a bust.
- If you are sitting with a total of 10 points and the dealer is standing opposite you showing an 8 or a 9, double down.
- If you are sitting with 11 points and the dealer is showing 10 points, the scenario is ripe for a smashing double down.
- Doubling down can seem like a dramatic move, even melodramatic. The thing is, it is actually a sensible one. If you construct a personal policy that you will double down in those scenarios that indicate it, you will come out ahead more often than you don't.
Newbie Hint: If you are sitting with a good hand – if you know that you have a good or great chance of beating the dealer, but you are hesitant about doubling down, you should ask yourself why. Statistics will tell you that if you consistently double down when you are in a favorable position, you will come out ahead – in the long run. Math is urging to double down. If you are worried that you'll lose too much money by doubling your original bet, it could be that you are seated at a table where the stakes are too high. Try a table with a lower minimum bet and watch yourself morph into a double-down aficionado.