Lojack and hijack positions in poker
The lojack (LJ) and hijack (HJ) are the middle positions. At a 6-max table, the lojack is the first seat to act preflop (also called UTG) and the hijack is next; at a full table they sit two and one seats before the cutoff. They’re stronger than early positions but weaker than the cutoff and button, so open a medium range.
Where they sit (9-handed)
Section titled “Where they sit (9-handed)”UTG → UTG+1 → UTG+2 → Lojack → Hijack → Cutoff → Button → Small blind → Big blind
At 6-max: Lojack (UTG) → Hijack → Cutoff → Button → SB → BB. See poker positions and 6-max vs full ring.
How wide to open (rough guide, 6-max)
Section titled “How wide to open (rough guide, 6-max)”| Position | Example opening range |
|---|---|
| Lojack (UTG) | 55+, A9s+, ATo+, KTs+, QJs, KQo, JTs |
| Hijack | 33+, A5s+, A9o+, K9s+, QTs+, J9s+, T9s, KJo+ |
At full ring, the lojack and hijack open a bit tighter than at 6-max, because more players sit behind them. See starting hands and under the gun.
Players behind you
Section titled “Players behind you”The cutoff and button act after you and are in position. If they 3-bet often, tighten up and open hands that can call or 4-bet. If they’re passive, open wider. See cutoff strategy and playing the button.
After the flop
Section titled “After the flop”You’ll often be out of position against the cutoff or button and in position against the blinds. Play pots against the blinds more freely; against later positions, keep pots smaller with medium hands. See pot control.
Common mistakes
Section titled “Common mistakes”- Opening button-style ranges from the hijack.
- Cold calling too much in the middle positions. See cold call.
What is the hijack in poker?
Section titled “What is the hijack in poker?”The seat two to the right of the button, one before the cutoff.
What is the lojack in poker?
Section titled “What is the lojack in poker?”The seat before the hijack; at 6-max it’s the first seat to act preflop.
How wide should you open from the hijack?
Section titled “How wide should you open from the hijack?”A medium range: wider than early position but tighter than the cutoff and button.
Who acts after the hijack?
Section titled “Who acts after the hijack?”The cutoff, button and blinds.