Double Down

A blackjack move that doubles your original bet in exchange for receiving exactly one more card, used when a single additional card is likely to produce a strong winning hand.

Definition

After seeing your first two cards, you may double down: you increase your wager (usually by up to the original amount) and commit to taking one card only. It is a strategy tool for spots where you have a mathematical advantage, most classically a two-card total of 10 or 11 against a weak dealer up-card, or certain soft hands. Because you receive just one card, doubling on a hand that needs multiple hits is a mistake. Rules vary: some tables restrict doubling to totals of 9-11, and 'double after split' may or may not be allowed. Correct doubling is a significant part of how basic strategy trims the house edge, since it puts more money in play precisely when the odds favour the player.

Worked example

You are dealt 6-5 (total 11) and the dealer shows a 6. Basic strategy says double down: you push out a second $20 next to your first, receive one card, and draw a 9 for 20, a strong total against the dealer's weak up-card. You have doubled your stake in a favourable spot.

Why it matters

For learners, doubling shows that good strategy is not only about which cards to take but about betting more when the math is on your side. For professionals, table-specific doubling rules materially affect the game's edge and must be stated accurately.

Related

Note: Optimal doubling depends on the exact rules (dealer hits or stands on soft 17, number of decks, double-after-split); the examples reflect common multi-deck basic strategy.