Doublers
The alternative to Leasters when nobody picks - double the stakes instead!
Quick Summary
A Doubler happens when all players pass (nobody picks). Instead of playing a Leaster, the cards are redealt and the next hand is worth double points.
How Doublers Work
1. Everyone Passes
After the deal, all 5 players pass on picking up the blind.
2. Cards Redealt
Instead of playing, gather up all cards and deal a fresh hand.
3. Double Stakes
The next hand is played for 2x the normal points.
4. Can Stack
If everyone passes again, it's another doubler - but most groups don't quadruple. Instead, the next TWO hands are doubled.
Consecutive Doublers
What happens when multiple doublers occur in a row? Common house rules:
Stack Method (Common)
Each doubler adds one more hand at double stakes. Two doublers = next 2 hands doubled. Not quadrupled.
Multiply Method (Rare)
Stakes actually multiply. Two doublers = 4x stakes. Can get very expensive!
Cap Method
Maximum of 2x or 4x no matter how many doublers occur.
Always agree on house rules before playing!
Doublers vs Leasters
| Aspect | Doublers | Leasters |
|---|---|---|
| What happens | Redeal, next hand doubled | Play the hand differently |
| Goal | Normal (61+ to win) | LOWEST points wins |
| Teams | Normal (next hand) | None - every man for himself |
| The blind | Redealt | Goes to last trick winner |
| Game pace | Faster (skip hand) | Same (play the hand) |
| Stakes impact | Increases next hand | Normal stakes this hand |
Why Play Doublers?
Reasons to Prefer Doublers
- • Faster - no awkward reversed gameplay
- • Keeps normal game dynamics
- • Builds excitement for next hand
- • Easier to understand
- • Everyone knows the rules
Reasons to Prefer Leasters
- • Still get to play the dealt cards
- • Fun strategic challenge
- • No risk of stacking multipliers
- • Traditional Wisconsin style
- • Tests different skills
Example Scenario
House Rules Reminder
Whether to play Doublers or Leasters (or Forced Pick) should be decided before the game starts.
Some groups let the dealer choose each time, others stick with one method. Make sure everyone knows the rules!