There are many poker positions, and each of them has its advantages and disadvantages. “Under the gun” is not one of the most preferable poker positions. However, there is always a chance to make the best of it. Read the article to know what is under the gun in poker, the specifics of the position, and how to use it to the fullest.
What is Under the Gun in Poker(UTG)?
Under the gun is a definition that refers to the Taxes Hold’em and Omaha poker games. A player is “under the gun” if he needs to act first in the pre-flop round. You are in “under the gun position” if you sit to the immediate left of the small and big blinds.
In this case, you will be the third to make a move after the flop. But this will happen only if both blinds didn’t fold. A person in a small blind position is the first to make a move. A player in a big blind will act second, and “under the gun” will be the third.
Is Under the Gun Disadvantageous Position?
“Under the gun” is not considered an advantageous position, because due to this position the player needs to act first in the pre-flop. The position’s name speaks for itself. The player feels pressure like he is under the gun. All your opponents wait for you to make the first move. The rest of the players can call, raise, or fold after the “under the gun” position. Players who are UTG know nothing about the hands of other players. Accordingly, the player UTG can not predict whether his opponents will raise, call, or fold.
It means other players will act based on your player’s move. It would be hard for the gambler to play with a weak hand because his opponent can reraise you in case the player decides to raise. It is hard to decide whether it is better to call or raise. If the “under the gun” player raises, his opponents will certainly think he has a very strong hand, and they will likely fold.
How to Play Under the Gun?
There are different strategies advanced players use when they are in the “under the gun” position. You should necessarily pick up the tougher strategy if you are in UTG. Your only options here are to raise or call. Be ready that your opponents will expect the tighter game.
Many strategies assure players should better prefer raising to calling in an “under the gun” position. It is better to bet aggressively or flop than call, preventing big blind from limping in.
You can go all-in and get the blinds if you are short-stacked and have a strong hand. This will allow you to cover the blinds with the help of the next hands.