Natural (1NT)
Good, Better, Best recommends using conventional double over a strong notrump. We consider a natural notrump opening strong if at least half of the hands contain 15+ HCP. For instance, 14–16 is considered strong but 13–15 is not.
Landy 2♣, showing both majors, is a simple and effective defense to any natural notrump opening. As for strength, I recommend 10–15 but 5–11 by passed hand.
| (1NT) | NAT |
|---|---|
| 2♣! | UNBAL, 4+♠, 4+♥ |
| 2♦♥♠ | NAT, 5+# |
| 2NT! | UNT, 5+♦, 5+♣ |
The unusual (1NT) 2NT is the same as our unusual notrump opening.
Woolsey double
Against strong notrump or by passed hand, play Woolsey double in any seat.
| (1NT) | STR or by PH |
|---|---|
| X! | (ART, 5+♦♣, 4+♠♥) or UNBAL 16+ |
| (1NT) X - | |
|---|---|
| 2♣! | P/C |
| 2♦! | Ask for the major suit |