A Convention to "Safely" Open Light Third (or 4^th ) Hand in the Majors

A Basic Version presented by Mike Savage

If you like to open one of a major in third (or even 4^th) seat with slightly less than full opening values, Drury is a convention created to help responder not to get too high when he has invitational values and a fit. As a passed hand, holding a fit and 10-12 points, you want to both invite game but not have to jump to the 3-level in case partner opened light.

Bid 2C to ask Opener’s strength: weak, minimum or more than minimum. Some partnerships allow opening a 4-card major in third (or 4^th) seat. If you are opening light, it is highly recommended that you have a good suit. Below you will find Original Drury (in black) and improved Reverse Drury (differences in blue).

P – P – 1H or 1S – P:

2C = Shows invitational values (10-13 support points) and at least 3-card support.

Responses: 2D = Shows a light opener (9/10-11/12) with no game interest.

2D = Shows a minimum full opener but would not accept

a game try.

2 of Opener’s Major = Shows a minimum full opener but

would not accept a game try.

2 of Opener’s Major = Shows a light opener (9/10-11/12)

2H (after opening 1S) = Natural, a minimum or sub-minimum.

2S (after opening 1H) = Natural, showing at least game interest.

2NT = Natural, 13-plus to 14 points with good side stoppers.

3C & 3D = Either a help suit game try or natural (your choice).

3 of Opener’s Major = Forcing and slam invitational.

3H (after 1S – 2C) = Natural with 5-4, 5-5 etc. & game forcing.

3NT = Natural and gives partner a choice between 3NT and

four of the Opener’s major.

4C, 4D, 4H (after 1S) and 3S (after 1H) = Splinter slam tries.

4 of Opener’s Major = Enough values for game but no more.

2NT = Shows five clubs, a balanced/semi-balanced maximum and no major fit.

3C = Natural and invitational. Should show a good six-card suit and no major fit.