babyrosejr
Rock Star
Platinum Level
Many tournament players focus a lot on preflop fundamentals like open-raising ranges, 3-bets, or push/fold situations. But one concept that doesn’t get enough attention at the micro and low stakes is the bluff 4-bet.
At first glance, it might sound like something only high-stakes pros do, but in reality, understanding when and how to use a bluff 4-bet can give you a significant edge, even in softer fields.
A bluff 4-bet is essentially when you re-raise (after facing a 3-bet) with hands that are not strong enough for value but can serve as semi-bluffs. The goal isn’t necessarily to see a flop but to apply pressure and exploit your opponent’s tendencies.
Here are some key aspects to consider:
1. Opponent Profile
Bluff 4-bets work best against players who 3-bet too frequently but don’t like facing aggression themselves.
If someone is only 3-betting premium hands, then bluff 4-bets become suicidal.
2. Stack Sizes
Ideal stacks for bluff 4-bets are usually 40–70bb. Too shallow, and you end up pot-committed; too deep, and opponents may call and put you in tough postflop spots.
3. Position
The most common and effective spots are late position battles (BTN vs CO, BTN vs SB/BB).
Being in position after a call makes your life much easier if your bluff is picked up.
4. Hand Selection
Suited connectors, suited aces, and blockers like A5s, KQo, or Axs are good candidates.
Having blockers reduces the chance your opponent holds premium hands.
5. Tournament Dynamics
ICM pressure can make bluff 4-bets very profitable. For example, on a final table bubble, players tighten up and don’t want to risk their stack lightly.
6. Frequency & Balance
It’s important not to overuse this move. If you bluff 4-bet too often, sharp opponents will adjust.
Mixing in value 4-bets with hands like QQ+ and AK ensures you’re not exploitable.
In summary, bluff 4-bets are not just “fancy play syndrome.” When executed selectively, they can pick up chips without showdown, exploit over-aggressive opponents, and add depth to your tournament arsenal.
What’s your experience with bluff 4-bets in tournaments? Do you ever use them at the micros, or do you think they are only practical at higher levels?
At first glance, it might sound like something only high-stakes pros do, but in reality, understanding when and how to use a bluff 4-bet can give you a significant edge, even in softer fields.
A bluff 4-bet is essentially when you re-raise (after facing a 3-bet) with hands that are not strong enough for value but can serve as semi-bluffs. The goal isn’t necessarily to see a flop but to apply pressure and exploit your opponent’s tendencies.
Here are some key aspects to consider:
1. Opponent Profile
Bluff 4-bets work best against players who 3-bet too frequently but don’t like facing aggression themselves.
If someone is only 3-betting premium hands, then bluff 4-bets become suicidal.
2. Stack Sizes
Ideal stacks for bluff 4-bets are usually 40–70bb. Too shallow, and you end up pot-committed; too deep, and opponents may call and put you in tough postflop spots.
3. Position
The most common and effective spots are late position battles (BTN vs CO, BTN vs SB/BB).
Being in position after a call makes your life much easier if your bluff is picked up.
4. Hand Selection
Suited connectors, suited aces, and blockers like A5s, KQo, or Axs are good candidates.
Having blockers reduces the chance your opponent holds premium hands.
5. Tournament Dynamics
ICM pressure can make bluff 4-bets very profitable. For example, on a final table bubble, players tighten up and don’t want to risk their stack lightly.
6. Frequency & Balance
It’s important not to overuse this move. If you bluff 4-bet too often, sharp opponents will adjust.
Mixing in value 4-bets with hands like QQ+ and AK ensures you’re not exploitable.
In summary, bluff 4-bets are not just “fancy play syndrome.” When executed selectively, they can pick up chips without showdown, exploit over-aggressive opponents, and add depth to your tournament arsenal.
What’s your experience with bluff 4-bets in tournaments? Do you ever use them at the micros, or do you think they are only practical at higher levels?
