How well did I play this hand?

Question

I just bought in for $140 in a 2,3,5 blinds spread limit hold'em game ($5-200). It was my second hand so I knew nothing about any particular player. I find AK in second position and open for $15. There are two callers behind me and the cutoff raises to $200. I fold when it comes back to me.

Should I have limped in for $5? Should I have raised more before the flop?

Answer 1

It sounds to me like the cutoff was just buying the pot I would have folded as well but its a hard hand to lay down.  But the 2 callers sounds like they could have had a decent pair.  and if you didn't hit the flop then you would S.O.L

Answer 2

yep, sounds like a steal using the sandwich effect.

while you didn't know a lot about them, they probably got a lot of information about you: small bankroll, unfamilar with this style, etc.

Answer 3

sounds like you made a good play when people are stupid enough to overbet like that just wait for aces or kings to move in with AK 15 dollar bet is perfect in second position