How to play under the gun (UTG) in poker

Under the gun (UTG) is the seat directly left of the big blind: you’re the first to act preflop, with every other player still to act behind you. That’s why UTG needs the tightest range at the table. Open only strong hands, and expect to play out of position after the flop.

Why play tight from UTG

Everyone can still wake up with a strong hand behind you.
You’ll usually be out of position against callers after the flop. See poker positions.
Weak hands from UTG lose money even for good players.

Which hands to open (rough guide)

Format	UTG open range (example)
Full ring (9-max)	77+, AJs+, AQo+, KQs, some suited connectors at softer tables
6-max	55+, A9s+, ATo+, KTs+, QJs, KQo, JTs

Adjust: tighter against aggressive players behind you, a little wider at very passive tables. See starting hands and 6-max vs full ring.

Sizing

Use your normal open size, for example 2.5 big blinds online. Don’t limp UTG; raise or fold. See limping.

Facing a 3-bet

Your UTG range is strong, so you can continue more often than from late positions: 4-bet the best hands (A-A, K-K, often Q-Q, A-K) and call some strong hands in position-friendly spots.

After the flop

Your range is strong: you can c-bet high-card boards often. See continuation bet.
Be careful on low, connected boards: they suit the callers’ ranges more than yours. See flop texture.
Out of position, keep pots smaller with medium hands.

FAQ

What is under the gun in poker?

The seat directly left of the big blind, first to act before the flop.

Why should you play tight under the gun?

Every other player is still to act and can have a strong hand, and you’ll often be out of position.

Should you limp under the gun?

No. Raise or fold.

What hands should you open from UTG?

Strong pairs, good aces and the best broadway hands; a bit wider at 6-max than at full ring.