4Bet from CO
4Bet from CO
A 4-bet is a re-raise made after an initial raise and a 3-bet; when executed from the cutoff (CO), it represents a strong hand range typically aimed at isolating or applying pressure in late position.
Overview
A 4Bet from CO refers to the action of re-raising a 3-bet while sitting in the cutoff position (the seat to the right of the button). This is a common aggressive move in no-limit hold'em cash games and tournaments, often used to narrow opponents' ranges and gain control of the pot.
Strategic Significance
Position is a powerful factor in poker. The cutoff is one of the most profitable seats because it acts before only the button and the blinds. A 4-bet from CO typically signals a strong, value-oriented range, such as QQ+, AK, or sometimes suited connectors as a bluff in balanced play. However, the exact range depends on stack depths, opponent tendencies, and game flow.
Typical Situations
Against a 3-Bet from Later Position
When the cutoff opens with a raise and the button or blinds 3-bet, a 4-bet from the original raiser puts heavy pressure on the 3-bettor. In many cases, the 3-bettor will fold unless they have a very strong hand or are willing to 5-bet jam.
Stack Size Considerations
- Deep stacks (100+ BB): A 4-bet often leads to a 5-bet or a call, making sizing critical. Typical sizes range from 2.2x to 2.5x the 3-bet.
- Short stacks (30-40 BB): A 4-bet may commit the player to the pot, often turning into a jam or call of an all-in.
Bluff 4-Bets
Players sometimes 4-bet with hands like A5s or small suited connectors as a bluff, especially when they expect the 3-bettor to fold often. This strategy works best against aggressive opponents who 3-bet frequently but fold to 4-bets.
Adjustments Based on Opponent
- Tight 3-bettors: 4-bet only for value with premium hands (KK+, AK).
- Loose 3-bettors: Expand value range (QQ, AQ) and add some bluffs.
- Passive players: Avoid 4-bet bluffing; they may call or 5-bet with a narrow range.
Example Scenario
In a $2/$5 cash game with 100 BB stacks, the CO opens to $15. The button, a tight-aggressive player, 3-bets to $45. The CO 4-bets to $110 with AKo. This forces the button to either fold weaker pairs or call with a defined range. If the button 5-bet shoves, the CO can evaluate based on pot odds and read.
Conclusion
A 4-bet from the cutoff is a versatile tool for capitalizing on positional advantage. Proper use requires understanding opponent ranges, stack dynamics, and game balance between value and bluffs.