Cribbage Pegging Strategy
The pegging phase is where games are won and lost. Master offensive and defensive play to gain the edge.
Leading Strategy
The pone (non-dealer) plays first. Your lead sets the tone for the entire pegging round.
Safe Leads (Low Cards)
- 4: The safest lead. Cannot be paired into 15 with one card.
- 3: Very safe. Only 15 is with a Q or exact combo.
- A or 2: Safe, though A-4 and 2-3 are common pairs.
Dangerous Leads
- 5: Any 10-value card makes 15. Only lead with multiple 5s.
- 6-7-8-9: Easy targets for 15s and runs.
- 10-cards: Opponent with a 5 gets easy points.
The "Eleven" Trap
If opponent leads and you bring the count to 11, you're vulnerable to any 4 (making 15). Similarly, counts of 21 are dangerous (any 10-card makes 31).
Offensive Pegging
When behind or needing points, play aggressively to score:
Tactics for Scoring
- Pair immediately: If opponent leads and you can pair, do it (unless they likely have a third).
- Set up runs: Play cards that create run opportunities on your next play.
- Keep 15-makers: Hold onto cards that can make 15 with common totals (5s, 10s).
- Play touching cards: 7-8, 3-4 sequences can trap opponents into giving you runs.
Run Trapping
If opponent plays 6, you play 8, they might play 7 expecting a run. But if you have another 6, you can pair their 7 follow-up or score 16 points with a quad run.
Defensive Pegging
When ahead or protecting a lead, minimize opponent's scoring opportunities:
Defensive Tactics
- Avoid the count of 5: Opponent can easily make 15 with any 10-card.
- Avoid 21: Any 10-card gives opponent 31 for 2 points.
- Play wide of sequences: If count is 15 and they played 7-8, play a King, not a 6 or 9.
- Don't pair: Unless you're confident they don't have a third card.
- Dump high cards early: Get stuck on Go with 10s and you lose points.
Counting Dangers
Certain counts are especially dangerous. Memorize these:
| Count | Danger | Cards That Score |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | High | Any 10-card (15) |
| 10 | Medium | 5 (15) |
| 11 | Medium | 4 (15) |
| 21 | Very High | Any 10-card (31) |
| 26 | High | 5 (31) |
End of Pegging
The last cards played often determine several points:
- Last card: Always worth 1 point (or 2 for 31).
- Count remaining cards: Know what opponent likely has left.
- Force the Go: Try to make opponent say Go early so you control the endgame.
- Save low cards: Aces and 2s are easier to play at high counts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I lead with a 5 in cribbage?
Generally no. Leading a 5 gives your opponent an easy 15 (2 points) if they have any 10-card. The exception is if you hold multiple 5s or 10s and can benefit from their response.
What is the best lead card in cribbage?
A 4 is often considered the best lead. It cannot be made into 15 with a single card, and if opponent plays a 10-card (for 14), you can play an Ace for 15. Low cards (A-4) are generally safe leads.
When should I play defensively in pegging?
Play defensively when you're ahead in the game, when opponent needs few points to win, or when you have a weak pegging hand. Focus on not giving away points rather than scoring.