Doubling down is a quick way to build your chip stack, whether you’re a regular casino patron or play blackjack online. It is also a quick way to get wiped out – if you don’t know the proper way to manage your double down opportunities.

Most casinos offer you the chance to double down – double your bet – on any hand when showing two cards. You are only dealt one more card, so you want to be selective about which hands you choose to double up.

Here are some blackjack do’s and don’ts for doubling down:

DO:
Double down with 10 or 11. If you’re dealt two cards totaling 10 or 11, you can strike for a big payday if you pull a 10 card on your double down draw. And doubling down after splitting cards can significantly swing the house edge depending on what you’re showing. Splitting aces and eights and doubling down on those two-card draws can hit the house for an even bigger win.

DON’T:
Double down with a 10 or 11 and a dealer showing 9 or 10. While this may pay out over the long run, beginners or the faint of heart should avoid these close calls. And if you’re uncomfortable with risking twice as much on one hand, you shouldn’t be doubling down to begin with.

DO:
Double down with dealer showing a 2 through 6. If you have an advantageous hand to double up on and the dealer is showing one of these possible bust cards, make them pay with a big hit. A dealer showing 2 through 6 is most likely to bust, with the odds of that happening between 35 (showing 2) and 42 percent (showing 6). Anything higher than a six and the chance of a bust drops anywhere from 26 (showing 7) to 17 percent (showing Ace).

DON’T:
Double down less than your original bet. Some casinos will allow you double down a wager less than the original bet, as long as it meets table limits. Doing so defeats the real purpose of “doubling” down. Going halfheartedly on a solid opportunity to score extra chips, because your bankroll can’t take the hit, is a good indicator that you shouldn’t be trying to double down in the first place.

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