Source: www.bridgebum.com
The Kamikaze 1NT (aka “mini” no-trump) is a 1NT opening bid that shows a balanced hand with 10-12 HCP. Since it is such a weak opening bid, subject to frequent penalty doubles by the opponents, an escape system such as Meckwell Escapes is a necessary adjunct. In addition, it was originally intended to be played only in first or second position. The reason is because the odds of having a good hand increase after the first two or three players pass to you. Also, there is no preemptive value in opening a 10-12 1NT in fourth seat.
Example of Kamikaze 1NT openings:
Other Considerations
If integrating the Kamikaze notrump into your system, it is also important to consider its effect on natural sequences such as
1 |
: | 1 |
| 1NT/2NT |
1NT here normally shows around 12-14 HCP, while 2NT would show around 18-19 HCP; the 15-17 HCP between the two rebids must be resolved in one way or another.
As expert Danny Kleinman notes in his book “The Notrump Zone”:
The main disadvantage of the Kamikaze notrump – the obvious cost – is the burden it puts on other openings and rebids. Remove from your toolkit one of the ways of describing a very common class of opening-strength hands, and many of your other tools work less efficiently.
For a more favorable philosophy toward a mini notrump, read 1NT: The Ultimate Preempt by Tony Melucci about the merits of a 10-13 1NT.
Origins
The Kamikaze 1NT was invented by American player John Kierein
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