How Do You Stop Someone From Shooting the Moon in Hearts?
Short Answer
A player can only shoot the moon if they take all 26 penalty points in the hand. To stop them, make sure they don't take everything. The simplest defense is to take at least one heart (or the Queen of Spades) yourself.
Signs Someone Might Be Shooting
- They take multiple early tricks and never seem to dump points
- They win leads consistently (often from long suits)
- They capture the Q♠ without risk, then keep winning
- Other players suddenly start playing low and "getting out of the way"
The Simplest Defense: "Break" the Moon Shot
If you can win a trick that contains a heart, do it. The moment anyone other than the shooter takes even one penalty point, the moon shot is dead.
Example
You suspect Player B is shooting. When hearts are played, you spend a high card to win a trick containing a single heart. Even if you take 1 point, it prevents +26 to you and the other two players.
How to Force Them Into a Loss Trick
- Lead suits they're likely void in: If they can't follow suit, they may be forced to discard points to you
- Don't always duck: If everyone refuses to win, the shooter gets a free run
- Coordinate (quietly): Sometimes the "right" play is to take 2-7 points now to avoid 26 later
Common Mistake: Helping the Shooter
The biggest moon-shot mistake is playing "safe" the same way you always do. When a moon is on the table, "good score" strategy changes.