Deuce to Seven (2-7) No-Limit Single Draw is a popular poker variant often played in high-stakes cash games and mixed-game formats. Here’s a guide on how to play:
Objective
The goal in Deuce to Seven is to make the lowest possible hand. The best possible hand is 7-5-4-3-2, not all of the same suit (unsuited).
Hand Rankings
- Aces are always high. Therefore, A-2-3-4-5 is not a straight but rather an Ace-high hand.
- Straights and flushes count against you, so the best possible hand contains no straights or flushes.
- Pairs and higher cards are bad. The worst hand in the game is a high-card hand (e.g., K-Q-J-10-9).
Game Play
1. Blinds
- Like in Texas Hold’em, Deuce to Seven starts with two players posting blinds.
- The player to the left of the dealer posts the small blind, and the next player posts the big blind.
2. Dealing
- Each player is dealt five cards face down.
3. First Betting Round
- Betting starts with the player to the left of the big blind.
- Players can fold, call, or raise.
4. Drawing
- After the first betting round, remaining players have the option to discard any number of cards from their hand and draw new ones from the deck.
- Players can also choose to “stand pat” and keep their current hand without drawing new cards.
5. Second Betting Round
- A second betting round takes place after the draw.
- This is a no-limit game, so players can bet any amount of their remaining chips.
6. Showdown
- If more than one player remains after the second betting round, a showdown occurs.
- Players reveal their hands, and the player with the lowest-ranked hand wins the pot.
Strategy Tips
- Starting Hands: Good starting hands include low cards without pairs, straights, or flushes. Hands like 7-6-5-4-2 or 8-7-6-5-2 are strong.
- Drawing Strategy: Decide how many cards to draw based on your starting hand. If you have a good low hand, consider standing pat. If you need to improve, draw one or more cards.
- Betting: Since it’s a no-limit game, aggressive betting can be used to bluff opponents. Pay attention to the betting patterns of other players to gauge the strength of their hands.
Example Hand
- Blinds Posted: Player A posts the small blind, and Player B posts the big blind.
- Deal: Each player is dealt five cards.
- First Betting Round: Betting starts with the player to the left of the big blind.
- Drawing: Players discard unwanted cards and draw new ones. Player A discards two cards and draws two new ones. Player B stands pat.
- Second Betting Round: After the draw, another round of betting occurs.
- Showdown: If there are still multiple players, they reveal their hands. The player with the best low hand wins.
Remember, practice and experience are key to mastering Deuce to Seven No-Limit Single Draw. Good luck at the tables!
