MINI-SPLINTER

Mini-Splinter is a variation of the Splinter Convention. The application of the Mini-Splinter shows, after a Jump Shift by either the opener or responder, a definite Suit Fit and also a Singleton or even a Void in the suit bid. As stated, the Mini-Splinter can be used to force game or invite game either by the responder supporting the opener or by the opener to support the last bid of the responder.

By partnership agreement, the Mini-Splinter can either be a Double Jump Shift or a Single Jump Shift, the latter having become preferable owing to the consumed bidding space. Again, this is a matter of partnership agreement.

Dealer
Partner
Q976
J543
K843
A
AKJ83
Q86
975
KQ
Pass
1
3

The Jump Shift by the Dealer, who has first passed, shows:

A near opening
A Singleton or Void in the bid suit
A good fit with opener

The partner will then review and re-evaluate his holdings and set the contract, or with enough strength, attempt slam.

In the following example:

Dealer
Partner
Q976
K10985
AQ97
AKJ83
Q85
74
K108
1
1
3

A Jump Reverse by the opener shows the same as above. The opener has an excellent fit with the responder and a singleton or void in the suit of the responder. Game is secure, but the question now is whether responder has enough values and length to continue to slam.

The Mini-Splinter can become a very good tool for those who agree to use it. It should definitely, for those who choose to use it, become a part of their written partnership agreement and should be included on their Convention Card, since their opponents have a right to know that the Mini-Splinter method is being used.

If you wish to include this feature, or any other feature, of the game of bridge in your partnership agreement, then please make certain that the concept is understood by both partners. Be aware whether or not the feature is alertable or not and whether an announcement should or must be made. Check with the governing body and/or the bridge district and/or the bridge unit prior to the game to establish the guidelines applied. Please include the particular feature on your convention card in order that your opponents are also aware of this feature during the bidding process, since this information must be made known to them according to the Laws of Duplicate Contract Bridge. We do not always include the procedure regarding Alerts and/or Announcements, since these regulations are changed and revised during time by the governing body. It is our intention only to present the information as concisely and as accurately as possible.
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