07- 7-04, LearnTexasHoldem:

A5s

Question: Hi, in your "Basic Texas Hold'Em Strategy" section, you mention that A5s is a pretty good hand for hitting straights and flushes. I was under the impression though that you couldn't use wrap-around straights (A2345) in Hold'Em. Also, if you can use them, is JQKA2 a valid wrap-around straight?

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Answer: In some cases, going for inside/gutshot straights is not profitable but when you have the odds it can be. A straight with A5 or AT doesn't necessarily mean you have a gutshot only. You could have a pair and the gutshot or a flush draw and a gutshot. I prefer playing A5s and below and AT and above because both cards can be involved in straights.

If you have a hand like A6 and the flop is A42, you don't have a straight draw even though your kicker is better then the A5. Those extra outs too help, especially in loose games. With A5s you can catch the nut flush draw, two pair, top pair with a straight draw, middle pair with an Ace over card, etc. I consider a suited Ace playable in most games. Some people don't. You won't lose much if you decide not to play it or wait till you have more experience before you add it to your game.

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