Reverse Drury — BidMaestro

The problem it solves

After responder has passed, opener may open a major in third or fourth seat on less than a full opening, to steer a lead or contest the part-score. If responder now has a limit raise, jumping to three of the major could push the partnership too high opposite a light opener.

The 2♣ ask

So, as a passed hand, responder’s 2♣ is artificial: a real limit raise (about 10+ support points, three or more trumps). It keeps the auction low while opener shows how sound the opening was.

Opener’s replies

Two of the major: A light opening, fewer than 12 high-card points.
2♦: A full opening, 12 or more high-card points.
Three of the major: About 14 or more points counting shortness for the fit.
A new suit: A game try on a full opener.

How responder finishes

Responder then acts on what opener has revealed:

Opener showed a light opening (two of the major): Pass — the limit raise has already found its level.
Opener showed a sound opening (2♦, or a jump to three of the major): Bid game with anything to spare; with a bare limit raise, sign off in the major.
Opener made a side-suit game try: Bid game with useful help in the suit opener named; without it, sign off at three of the major.

With a weak raise

With a weak raise rather than a limit raise, a passed responder jumps straight to three of the major, a pre-empt. The 2♣ bid is kept for the hand that wants to invite.

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