Double Down in Blackjack
The option of Doubling Down in the game of Blackjack is one of the best opportunities the game offers that often proves to be profitable. A great many casinos allow players to double down on any two cards a player has although there are some that only let you double down if your starting hand totals either 10 or 11. The key to succeeding with this technique is to know exactly what it means to double down and when to do it.
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Doubling down in Blackjack occurs when you ask for one card after you have been dealt your initial first two. You can then double down for an amount which is equal to your original bet or for less, however you cannot double down for more than the amount of your original bet.
The best time to double down is when your first two cards total 10 or 11 and when the dealers up card is a 4, 5, or 6. The premise is that the dealer has to take a card which increases the chances that he will go over 21. The odds are in your favor that you will receive a card that is valued at 10, such as a Jack or Queen. If you happen to get a lower numbered card when doubling down, you still are in the game because the dealer may end up busting. And, if you are dealt a face card or a 10, you are in good standing to win double as much money as your original bet. If you are given an ace and any other numbered card when the dealer has a 3, 4, 5 or 6, this is also a good opportunity to double down because the odds are that the dealer will draw and bust.
Now, concerning when not to double down. It is not wise to do so if the dealers up card is a face card or a 10. This is because the odds are good that he will have a total of 20. If you do not get a 10 for your double then you will end up losing twice as much as you bet.
Of course, there is a lot of luck involved in playing Blackjack and bad luck is always right around the corner. Many Blackjack players are very afraid to double down because they fear the chance of losing double the amount of their bet. If you find yourself hesitating, perhaps you are playing at a table that is above your personal limits. There really is a lot of profit to be had with doubling down so you should take advantage of the situation when it presents itself.

