Blackjack is one of the popular casino games that players enjoy. The growing demand for this game is due to its simplicity and availability of popular blackjack variations. However, to play blackjack games online, it is important to understand the various strategies and the right timing to use them. Among the different blackjack strategies, doubling down is a popular one. It is an exciting move that can double the fun and entertainment of players. In this blog, you will get to know about the perfect timing of double down blackjack. Let’s get started!
What is Doubling Down?
Before knowing when to and when not double down in blackjack, you must understand what exactly it is. When you are quite confident about your hand, you can opt for doubling down. It is a strategy in which you double the value of the initial bet. The bet you place in the middle of the game will be exactly equal to your original bet. After doubling the bet, you will have to take one more extra card. All the bets are settled at the end of the hand.
Situations to Double Down
Want to use the double down strategy in online UK casinos? In that case, take a look at the top situations when you can consider doubling down in blackjack.
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The total of the cards equals 11
One of the very common situations to double down is when to total of the cards in your hand is 11. It is because it can provide you with a chance to hit 21 after you receive one more card from the dealer. However, even if you do not hit 21, you are likely to get close to it without going over it. That is why a lot of players consider doubling down when having cards that total 11.
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Soft 16, 17, 18
The term “soft” is used in blackjack when a hand consists of an ace along with another card. Having an ace can provide you with a great advantage in the game. It can help you get closer to 21 or even hit the blackjack. So, when you have a hand consisting of soft 16, 17, or 18, it is a smart move to double down. However, it is important to make sure that the dealer of the game has a lower card.
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Hard 9 or 10
A hard hand in blackjack means a hand in which there is no ace. If you have a hard 9 or 10, it is an ideal situation to opt for doubling down. However, you need to ensure that the dealer has a lower card.
Situations When Not to Double Down
Now that you know the different situations when you must double down, it is vital to be familiar with the circumstances when not to double down. Here are some of the common situations you must know.
- The Dealer shows an ace
When the dealer shows an ace, make sure never to double down. Well, the reason behind this is quite obvious. In this case, the dealer has a high chance of hitting 21 and getting a blackjack. Even if they do not get a blackjack, the chance is high that they will get closer to 21. So, it is better to avoid doubling down.
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Hard hand more than 11
Another prominent situation when you should not opt for doubling down in blackjack is when you have a hard hand over 11. Having a hard hand that is higher than 11 is not ideal. It is because the chance of busting is quite high. That is why it is better not to take the risk and double down your bet when you have a hard hand over 11.
Things to Keep in Mind When Doubling Down
There are certain factors you must note down when you are considering to double down blackjack. Take a look at the most important things.
- Before you opt to double down, make sure to be well aware of the rules of the casino. Going through the basic rules will enable you to get an idea of when doubling down is allowed.
- Pay attention to the hand of the dealer. Before you make any move, it is important to have an idea of the value of the cards the dealer has.
- Get to know whether the dealer checks for blackjack on receiving a 10-value card or an ace.
Conclusion
By now, you must be well aware of when you should and when you shouldn’t choose double down in blackjack. Having blackjack game skills helps in playing the game in an interesting manner. The double down blackjack is indeed an exciting strategy that enhances the overall gaming experience of players.