7-Card Stud Hi/Lo Split

7-Card Stud Hi/Lo SplitI know, Texas Holdem is the most popular game by far. But there is another game I like to play sometimes.

7 Card Stud Hi/Lo split is played almost exactly like 7 Card Stud. However, the pot is often split between the best high hand and best low hand. Just like in Omaha/8, the low hand must be 8 high or less.

This is a fun game to play, but the swings can be enormous. It is also quite a complex game. Let's just hit some high points to make you comfortable if you decide to sit in a game.

The best strategies for Omaha/8 and 7 Card Stud Hi/Lo are very similair, if not alike. It is a game of scoops. Your best starting hand is one that lets you try to win both halves of the pot. You can win the high hand when no-one hits a low hand, or you can win both the low and the high hand, usually with a straight, flush or two pair. You need to look for starting hands with three low cards, preferably with an Ace and/or suited cards, and trips or high pairs. Also, a hand with three high cards and at least two of them suited makes both a straight and a flush possible.

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You need to have a good memory to win in 7 Card Stud Hi/Lo split. You have to pay close attention to all of the exposed cards, even the ones who are folded. This way you can figure your outs and odds and determine what your opponents may be holding. For example, when you have an open-end straight draw and you have already seen two of the cards you need, your outs are reduced from 8 to six.

Most new players struggle with chasing a low draw. If one or two opponents are betting and raising and all you have is a draw to a low, you must fold unless you have a decent chance to win the high hand also. Remember, the best you can do with just the low is win half the pot. If you only draw to a low, you will consistently lose money.

7 Card Stud Hi/Lo can be great fun to play, but difficult to master. I think it is always good to learn how to play different games, I suggest you start your Stud Hi/Lo career with the thought that it’s just for fun. Wait and see how much you like it before you risk a large part of your bankroll.