Cold 4-bet: re-raising a 3-bet you weren't part of
A cold 4-bet happens when one player raises, another 3-bets, and you 4-bet without having put any chips in yet. You’re entering a big pot “cold” against two players who have both shown strength. At low stakes, a cold 4-bet almost always means a premium hand.
When to cold 4-bet
Section titled “When to cold 4-bet”At low stakes, keep it simple:
- A-A and K-K: always.
- Q-Q and A-K: often, especially against a 3-bettor who 3-bets wide.
- Bluffs (like A-5 suited) only against aggressive players who 3-bet a lot — and rarely.
Remember the original raiser is still to act behind or between you, so your range must be strong.
Sizing
Section titled “Sizing”- In position: about 2.2–2.5 times the 3-bet.
- Out of position: a bit bigger, about 2.5–3 times.
- With stacks around 40bb or less, just go all in.
See 4-bet and 4-bet pots.
When someone cold 4-bets you
Section titled “When someone cold 4-bets you”- If you made the 3-bet: unless you have A-A or K-K, folding is usually correct at low stakes. Q-Q and A-K are close and depend on the player.
- If you were the original raiser facing a 3-bet and a cold 4-bet: fold almost everything except the very top.
Why it’s rare
Section titled “Why it’s rare”Cold 4-betting with weak hands risks a lot against two strong ranges. Most players do it only with monsters, which is exactly why it’s so informative. See hand reading.
What is a cold 4-bet?
Section titled “What is a cold 4-bet?”A 4-bet made after a raise and a 3-bet when you haven’t put any money in the pot yet.
What does a cold 4-bet usually mean at low stakes?
Section titled “What does a cold 4-bet usually mean at low stakes?”Almost always a premium hand like A-A or K-K.
Which hands should I cold 4-bet?
Section titled “Which hands should I cold 4-bet?”A-A and K-K always; Q-Q and A-K often; bluffs only rarely against very aggressive players.
What should I do if I 3-bet and someone cold 4-bets?
Section titled “What should I do if I 3-bet and someone cold 4-bets?”Usually fold unless you have A-A or K-K; Q-Q and A-K depend on the opponent.