The Ultimate Guide to 6-Handed Poker Strategy

Introduction

6-Max poker is one of the most popular cash game formats. It has even replaced full-ring poker. However, only a few people know its meaning or how to play 6-Max poker.  If you are one of them, then this article is for you. Along with the meaning, we will also give some tips and strategies to master 6-Max poker.

Objective

The article's objective is to explain the 6-max poker and its gameplay.

What is a 6-Max Poker?

6-max poker means six players on the table. Positions like UTG+1 and UTG +2 do not exist. Here are the positions:

• Lowjack (LJ)
• Hijack (HJ)
• Cut-Off (CO)
• Button (BTN)
• Small Blind (SB)
• Big Blind (BB)

Fewer players make it more interesting, and players tend to play more rather than fold.

6-Max Starting Hand Range Charts

A good poker strategy starts with selecting the good starting hands. You can make money if you have chosen good hands. As there are fewer players, your range of hands gets bigger. The widest range of hands comes from the small blinds, which you can call sometimes instead of raising.

A good starting is essential but optional. A good poker player knows when to change their strategies and adjust according to the game. Here are some factors you can consider while choosing the best starting hand:

• Observe your opponent. If they are a tight player, you should play more hands. If they are an aggressive player, play fewer hands.
• You can play more hands if you think your hand is better than your opponent.
• Lastly, if the rake is high, play fewer hands, as weaker hands may lead to loss.

The Perfect 6-Handed Open-Raising Size

If you are the first to bet, you should raise between 2.5-3 times the big blind. Raising less than that makes it difficult for you to win, as a player with a weaker hand might stay in the game. And if you are growing more than that, you risk more money.

If you are a small blind, you can raise it 3 to 4 times the size of a big blind. This is because the big blind already has money and a positional advantage. So, they are going to call.

Understanding 3-Betting is Crucial to 6-Max Success

3-bet is re-raising when your opponent has already raised before the flop. You can re-raise if you have a strong hand like Ace or Kings. This will make weaker hands fold.

You can also bluff and 3-bet with weaker hands. This will confuse your opponent. Even with weak hands, you can still win.

Calling and 3-Betting Ranges in 6-Max Poker

Whether to call or 3-bet depends upon the position you are playing from and who raised the first bet. If the person who raised you is a tight player, you should be careful, and if they are a loose player, you can widen your range.

If you are a button, you can play more hands; if you are playing from early positions, you must be careful.

You can call if your hand is not strong enough to raise but not weak enough to fold. If your hand is slightly weak, you can also try 3-bet. Suited connectors work well in these situations.

Tips for Postflop Play in Low Stakes 6-Max

Here are some tips to improve your game and win in 6-max poker:

• When you have stronger hands, bet. Players often call more, and you can take advantage of this by betting and making weaker hands fold.
• Avoid making a colossal bluff. Bluff after analysing your spot and attack weaker players or hands.
• Analyse the behaviour of your opponents. Check how they are playing and take mental notes of that.
• If your opponents bet at the River, they have stronger hands. You should avoid calling and fold if your hands are weaker.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 6-max mean in poker?

6-max poker means six players playing on the table.

How many hands per hour is 6-max?

6-max poker can have an average of 80-100 hands per hour.

What is the difference between 6 max and full-ring poker?

A full ring table has 9 to 10 players, whereas a 6-max has six players playing on the table.

Conclusion

Meanwhile, 6-max poker seems easy yet challenging for most players. Learning the nitty gritty before participating in any significant game is essential. Read and understand all the rules and basic terms. Call your friends and practice with them.