I try to use "probe" bets as sparingly as possible and only against passive opponents. If I use a "probe" bet against aggressives it is because I _want_ a reraise.

I never bet mid pair weak kicker in the second situation, on the flop. There is one person who's put in money voluntarily here, and there is an ace, and everyone loves aces.

My standard action here is 2/3 pot on flop, fold to reraise unless I'm up against a moron. Even if I were up against a moron I'd think twice about calling a reraise if the money was deep. This is not the hand you want to get broke on.

Since I almost always use the 2/3 pot when I find something I like, it's harder for people to reraise me here without actually having something.

T.