Yes, Buster Scruggs' poker hand was considered a "pretty decent" one. In Frenchman's Gulch, the hand he refused to play consisted of Aces and Eights.
The Strength of Aces and Eights
Aces and Eights is a formidable two-pair hand in poker, widely recognized for its strong potential. It is famously known as the "Dead Man's Hand" due to its association with Old West legend Wild Bill Hickok, who was allegedly holding this specific hand when he was shot.
| Card | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ace | 2 |
| Eight | 2 |
| Kicker | 1 |
- This hand offers a significant advantage over many common starting hands.
- It provides good equity in many situations, positioning a player well to win the pot.
- While strong, like any hand, it can be beaten by higher-ranking hands such as flushes, straights, full houses, or four of a kind.
The Reason for His Refusal
Despite its considerable strength, Buster Scruggs notably refused to play his Aces and Eights, a decision that often confuses viewers familiar with poker. His refusal was likely rooted in superstition. The ominous reputation of the "Dead Man's Hand" can make some players wary of playing it, believing it might bring bad luck or an unfortunate end, echoing the historical fate of Wild Bill Hickok.
