How Does Double Down Work in Blackjack?

In blackjack, doubling down is when you double your original bet after receiving your first two cards. The idea behind doubling down is that you can more than likely win the hand by doing so. For example, let’s say you’re dealt a 9 and a 3, totalling 12.

The dealer has a 5 showing. If you double down, you’re essentially saying that you believe your hand can beat the dealer’s hand even though they have a head start (showing a 5).

To double down, simply place an additional bet next to your original bet. You will then be dealt one more card and play the hand out as usual. Remember, when you double down you only get one more card so choose wisely!

Generally speaking, doubling down is only allowed when your first two cards total 9, 10 or 11. This is because these hands already have a good chance of winning and doubling down gives you a better chance to win big.

Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule so be sure to check with the casino before assuming anything.

Now that we know how doubling down works, let’s take a look at when it might be beneficial to do so:

When the Dealer is Showing a Low Card: If the dealer is showing a low card (4, 5 or 6), they will likely bust if they hit so this is a good time for you to double down. For example, if you have an 11 and the dealer is showing a 6, doubling down would be a good idea because there’s a good chance they will go over 21 if they hit.

When You Have a Low Card: If you have a low card yourself (2, 3 or 7), it might be beneficial to double down in order to increase your chances of winning. For example, if you have an 11 and the dealer is showing a 3, doubling down would be beneficial because there’s a good chance they will go over 21 if they hit.

Some people might argue that it’s never wise to double down on an 11 because there’s always the potential of being dealt a face card or 10 which would give you 21 (a blackjack). While this is true, remember that blackjack pays 3:2 so even if you do get 21 it’s not necessarily a guaranteed win.

It really comes down to personal preference and what you feel comfortable with.

Conclusion: Doubling down in blackjack can be beneficial when done correctly but it’s important to know when to do it. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the rules of the game before assuming anything and always consult with the dealer if you’re unsure about something.