Gutshot Meaning in Poker - Complete Guide to Gutshot Straight Draws

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In poker terminology, a gutshot refers to a specific type of straight draw where a player needs one specific card to complete their straight. This draw gets its name from the fact that the needed card is in the middle of the straight sequence, creating a gut-wrenching situation for the player.

A gutshot straight draw occurs when a player has four consecutive cards missing one in the middle. For example, if you hold 8-9-J-Q, you need a 10 to complete your straight. This gives you only 4 outs （the four tens in the deck） compared to 8 outs in an open-ended straight draw.

The key characteristics of a gutshot include having only four possible cards that can complete your hand, making it a less favorable draw than open-ended straight draws. Players must carefully consider pot odds and implied odds when chasing gutshot draws, as the mathematical probability of hitting is approximately 16.5% with one card to come.

Successful poker players use gutshot opportunities strategically, often when they have additional equity through backdoor flush draws or when they can represent strong hands if they hit their draw. Understanding when to pursue gutshot draws and when to fold is crucial for long-term poker success.