Explanation of Stab
The expression 'stab' can often be swapped with 'bet,' but it typically suggests an offensive move towards a pot that has shown signs of neglect by our opponents.
Imagine the following scenario -
SB open-raises.
BB cold-calls.
SB checks.
BB bets.
In this situation, the small blind (SB) had the chance to place a continuation bet after making an initial raise before the flop but chose to hold back. One could speculate that if they had hit a favorable flop, they might have opted to make that continuation bet. Their decision to check could signify a lack of enthusiasm regarding the pot. Conversely, when the big blind (BB) steps up to make a bet after SB's missed continuation bet (commonly known as a float bet), it can often be dubbed a 'stab' due to SB's apparent disinterest.
Here is another example.
MP open-raises.
CO cold-calls.
BTN overcalls.
MP checks.
CO checks.
BTN bets.
If the middle position (MP) chooses to make a continuation bet in this instance, it would usually not be categorized as a 'stab' because there hasn't been any sign of lack of interest in the pot. However, if MP decides to check, a bet from either the cutoff (CO) or the button (BTN) could rightly be referred to as a stab.
Here’s how to use 'stab' in a sentence -> We entered the flop with a fairly wide range, planning to stab on the turn should the villain opt to check.
Incorporating Stab into Your Poker Tactics
Recognizing situations where opponents indicate weakness and seizing the opportunity to claim the pot is a crucial skill in poker. Mastering this can greatly influence a player's success rate.
A great way to begin is by identifying moments when the opponent has a chance to make a continuation bet (on any street) but instead opts to check.
Engaging in stabs during these moments typically results in a higher likelihood of securing the pot (often to the extent that virtually any pair of cards can be played profitably). Being able to pinpoint instances where any two cards can be played for profit often marks a significant turning point in a player's journey.
See Also
Bet , Check , Action , Continuation Bet , Fold