Double down double trouble?

It’s easy to take a player for granted if they make a move that goes against what the strategy charts tell you. You assume they’re an amateur, of course, and even consider moving to a different table so their decisions don’t affect your ability to win your hand. The last part is ridiculous, obviously, but that’s how many players think and react.

Now, let’s say you’ve got a player who has proven he knows what he’s doing. We’re not talking small money, either. Minimum $25 bet, let’s say. This was a situation I witnessed in a casino earlier this month. I admit I don’t sit nearly as much blackjack in real casinos as I do poker, but I know enough to know when someone is on their game or a tourist.

And this guy was doubling down on 12 like it was going out of style. Not hitting, doubling. Mostly against dealer 4’s and 6’s. At first, all I did was narrow my eyebrows and cock my head to the side a little bit, but when it became a pattern, I cracked a little grin to myself and said what the hell. I’ve never been one to shun unconventional play if it works, and when you’re riding a hot table, you can try to go outside the box to maximize your winnings, which is exactly what this guy did, walking away about 7 times richer than when he sat down after an hour.

This is the definition of a gamble, folks. Turning your back on reason and probabilities in the hope of making more money. Not a single 10-card came up, and the dealer busted every time. I couldn’t believe it. I wasn’t jealous or anything, I made off with about $150 myself, but it was just one of those things you never see and you’re never supposed to do. I actually found myself a bit impressed and inspired.

Just as an aside, I had a hunch this guy knew what he was doing and was possibly counting because he was making small talk. When you’re good, sometimes you inject small talk into the conversation to make others think you know what you’re talking about – but with the intention on them seeing through it and thinking you’re just an amateur trying to sound smart. This can help deflect some heat from those who might be watching you if they buy it.