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When Should You Double Down in Blackjack?

Doubling down lets you double your bet in exchange for exactly one more card. Used at the right moments, it's one of the main ways basic strategy claws back value from the house.

Hard totals

Double 11 against every dealer card from 2 to 10. Double 10 against 2 to 9. Double 9 against 3 to 6. The idea is simple: one card often takes you to a strong total, and the dealer is either weak or not strong enough to justify playing safe.

Soft totals: the doubles people miss

With an ace counted as 11, one card can't bust you, so doubling against weak dealer cards gains value. Ace + 2 or ace + 3: double against 5 and 6. Ace + 4 or ace + 5: double against 4 to 6. Ace + 6: double against 3 to 6. Ace + 7: double against 3 to 6 if allowed, otherwise stand.

When not to double

Don't double 11 against an ace in games where the dealer stands on soft 17, and don't double 10 against a 10 or an ace. Never double a total of 12 or more on a hard hand.

Check the table rules

Some tables only let you double on 9, 10 or 11, and some don't allow doubling after a split. If a double isn't allowed, follow the fallback: hit, or stand with ace + 7.

Check every double on the chart

FAQ

Should I always double on 11?

Against 2 to 10, yes. Against an ace, it depends on the soft 17 rule: hit when the dealer stands on soft 17.

Can I double on a soft hand?

Yes, and it's often correct against a weak dealer card, such as ace + 6 against a 5.

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Strategy and maths reduce the house edge, but never remove it. 18+, play responsibly.