Varying Bets

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Dschddny

Well-Known Member
I understand that it pays to vary your bet based on your advantage - the higher your advantage, the higher your bet should be.

So, why is it that your bet should NOT be varied when doubling-down? Why not do a full double-down when you have your best advantage (e.g. 11 vs dealer 6) and double-down for less when you have less of an advantage (e.g. 9 vs dealer 3)?
 
T

The Mayor

Well-Known Member
By "doubling for less" you may reduce your EV on the double down below the point of merely hitting. For example if you double T vs. 7, and draw a 2, you can't hit again, so is it really worth it to give up the right to hit again just because of that extra $1 you invested on the "double for less?"

However, you have a good point -- here is an example (more or less made up).

Suppose you are at a +5 and hitting T vs. T or doubling T vs. T is your decision. You have a max bet out. The decision to double would force you to match your max bet to get just a little bit of extra EV out of this, thus effectively putting out a max bet to generate a very small edge on that money. Because of this phenomenon, many use what are called "risk adverse indices" which work to maximize the ration EV/SD rather than simply maximizing the quantity EV. These indices have you doubling at slightly higher indices, but taking insurance (or surrendering) at slightly lower indices.

--Mayor
 
R

Rob McGarvey

Well-Known Member
DD 4 Less

is only advised for neg EV plays like split 8,8 vs 9 10 and 11 and some plays that very seldom happen these days. See Theory of Blackjack.
 
R

Rob McGarvey

Well-Known Member
Re: DD 4 Less

Depends on casino or pit boss at times. All you can do is give it a shot. I've been told no and yes, but I don't ask, I just do it. It'll piss you off when your D4L gets a 3 and your big hand gets a 7 ;>

Some days, ya just can't win at the tables. Suck it up and take your beating like a man!! ;>
 
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