Blackjack

Double Down

After you receive your first two cards, you have the option to "double down". This means you can double your original bet. Most casinos only allow you to double down when the value of your first 2 cards is 9, 10 or 11. If you double down, the dealer will give you only one more card and then draw the cards needed to complete his own hand. You are allowed to double down for any amount up to the original bet amount, so you could double down for less if you wanted. But keep in mind that you are giving up on the chance of receiving more than one additional card.

Our recommendation:

The following results are based on the laws of probabilistic evaluation. To maximize your winnings always double down when (X):

Your total points	Bank's card
Your total points	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	As
9	-	x	x	x	x	-	-	-	-	-
10	x	x	x	x	x	x	x	x	-	-
11	x	x	x	x	x	x	x	x	x	-

This means for example:
Double down if your first two cards are a 3 and a 7 (=10 Points) and the bank holds a 7.
DO NOT double down if your first two cards are a 5 and a 4 (=9 Points) and the bank holds an 8.