Hard totals
Should I double down on 9?
Hit when the dealer shows 2 or 7 to Ace. Double down when the dealer shows 3 to 6. If the table will not let you double, hit instead.
These answers are for a 6 deck game where the dealer stands on soft 17, blackjack pays 3 to 2, and you can double on any two cards, including after a split.
Why
A 9 that catches a 10 value card becomes 19, and an Ace makes 20. That hand is worth twice the money, but only when the dealer is weak.
A 2 is not weak enough for a 9, so you hit. Against 7 and up, just hit and keep the bet small.
The play against every dealer card
| Dealer shows | Your play |
|---|---|
| 2 or 7 to Ace | Hit |
| 3 to 6 | Double, or hit |
Questions players ask
- Should I double down on 9?
- Hit when the dealer shows 2 or 7 to Ace. Double down when the dealer shows 3 to 6. If the table will not let you double, hit instead.
- Should I double 9 against a 2?
- No. Hit 9 against a 2.
Related answers
- What should I do with 8 or less?
- Should I double down on 10?
- Should I double down on 11?
- When to double down in blackjack
- Blackjack basic strategy chart
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