Tips For Playing Razz Poker

Rules

If you are familiar with playing 7 card stud poker then you already have a jump start towards playing Razz. Razz poker is very similar to 7 card stud and is in fact a stud type of game. You get 7 cards just like 7 card stud, but instead of the highest ranking hand winning, the lowest overall hand wins. Make sure you have a good understanding of razz rules before advancing in into razz strategy.

Knowing the Best Starting Hands

The top starting hands in Razz are really easy to remember. The lowest hand in razz is A2345. Remember that Ace counts as low, so the lowest initial starting hand is A23. Essentially, Ace through 6 are great starting hands for your first three cards. Being dealt these three cards will allow you to play more aggressive to begin with.

Pay Attention to Other Players’ Hands

As cards are being dealt face up in Razz, make sure you pay attention to what each player is being dealt. If another play is showing and ace and another low card after 4 cards then they most likely have a good hand or are trying to represent a good hand with there other face down cards. Players who continue to chase cards with a few high cards face up, most likely have 2 good down cards and are hoping to hit a few more low cards. Also you would like to see opponent cards that are the same as yours to eliminate the chance you get a pair.

Making Other Players Pay

If you are dealt a good starting hand, then there is no need to slow play your cards. Most players will continue you keep chasing and hoping to catch lower cards on 6th and 7th street. You might as well make them pay up to see a few more cards. Be sure to look at what the other players are dealt as you bet. You do not want to be betting into a lower hand than you have.

Be Patient and Know When to Fold

You do not have to chase all the time in Razz. If you are dealt 3 marginal cards to being with, just go ahead and fold. There is no need to keep playing, hoping to see some lower cards. Getting dealt a pair in your first 4 cards is a sign that you should also fold. This card really has no value.