A double run of three, like 3-4-4-5, scores 8: two runs of three for 6 plus 2 for the pair. A double run of four, like 3-4-5-5-6, scores 10.
When one rank in a run appears twice, you have two separate runs that share the other cards, and you score both — plus the pair.
| Pattern | Example | Runs | Pairs | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Double run of three | 3-4-4-5 | 2 × 3 = 6 | 2 | 8 |
| Double run of four | 3-4-5-5-6 | 2 × 4 = 8 | 2 | 10 |
| Triple run | 3-4-4-4-5 | 3 × 3 = 9 | 6 | 15 |
| Double-double run | 3-3-4-4-5 | 4 × 3 = 12 | 4 | 16 |
Fifteens are counted separately and added on top.
A worked hand
Hold 4♠ 5♥ 5♦ 6♣ and cut a K♠.
- Runs: 4-5-6 can be made with either 5, so two runs of three: 6.
- Pair: the two 5s: 2.
- Fifteens: each 5 with the king (2), and 4-5-6 with either 5 (2): four fifteens for 8.
That is 16 points from five cards, which is why a pair next to a run is worth keeping. Counted aloud: “fifteen 2, 4, 6, 8, and a double run of three is 16.”
Spotting them
Find any pair, then look for cards one rank above or below it. A pair with a card on one side is no run, but a pair with a card on each side (4-5-5-6) is a double run, and a pair with two cards on one side (3-4-5-5) is too. In play (pegging), doubled runs don’t exist — only the most recent unbroken cards count; see pegging runs.
New to runs? Start with how runs score in cribbage, or see every score in the cribbage scoring and strategy guide.