There has been much debate over whether or not dealers can double down in blackjack. There are those who believe that dealers are not allowed to double down, while others believe that dealers can double down as long as they are not risking more than the original bet.
The majority of the industry seems to agree that dealers can double down, although there is some debate over whether or not this is always advantageous for the player.
Double Down Basics
To make a double down in blackjack, you must place two additional chips on the table, essentially doubling your original bet. If you are successful in hitting your hand, you will receive the original bet plus the two new chips, which would total up to the original bet plus four chips.
If you are unsuccessful in hitting your hand, then you will only receive the original bet and no additional chips.
The main reason why a player might want to make a double down is if they suspect that they have a good hand and want to increase their chances of winning by betting more money than they originally planned. Double downs can also be advantageous if the dealer has a poor hand and is likely to hit fewer hands than expected.
In either case, a player who makes a double down is almost always guaranteed at least some return on their investment.
Double Down Risks
Of course, there is always a risk associated with any type of betting action, no matter how safe it seems at first glance. For example, if you make a bet and then lose your hand, you would lose both the original bet and the two new chips that were added to it.
Similarly, if the dealer has a good hand and decides not to give you any cards, then you would lose both your original bet and the two new chips that were added to it.
It’s important to remember that making a double down always carries some risk – even if it’s just potential loss of money – so it’s important to weigh all of the potential risks before deciding whether or not to make the move. In most cases, though, doubling down is usually an effective way to increase your chances of winning at blackjack.
