SCUM is defensive convention against a 12+
HCP 1NT opening. It is an acronym for "Shape, Color and Majors",
which refer to the conventional calls of Double,
2
and
2
, respectively. Each of these calls represents a particular two-suited hand with at least 4-4 length. In ACBL tournaments, SCUM is technically GCC-legal because Double and
2
do not have to promise two specific suits.
Overcall |
Meaning |
Double | 2 suits of the same Shape, i.e. /
(the rounded suits) or / (the pointed suits). Partner is expected to bid 2 with club tolerance,
or else 2 . |
2 | 2 suits of the same color, i.e. /
or / . Partner should pass or correct. |
2 | The majors. |
2 | Natural. |
2 | Natural. |
2NT | The minor suits. |
Origins
SCUM was invented by American expert Bart Bramley. A full writeup is available in the
3/12/07 ACBL Daily Bulletin.
According to Bramley, "The
ambiguities of the system (double and 2
) are
coupled. Once you know one suit, you know the
other. Other systems don't have this. For example, in
DONT 2
is clubs and a higher suit, or in
Cappelletti, 2
is hearts and a minor. There's no
connection between the lower-ranking suit and the
higher one in those systems."