Table of Contents
- Introduction to Craps
- History of Craps
- The Craps Table: Full Layout Guide
- The Come-Out Roll & Pass Line
- The Free Odds Bet: The Best Bet in Any Casino
- Come, Don't Pass & Don't Come Bets
- Place Bets, Buy Bets & Lay Bets
- Complete Craps Bets Reference: Every Bet Ranked
- Beginner Strategy: The 3-Bet System
- Bankroll Management for Craps
- Common Mistakes & Craps Etiquette
- Craps Variations
- Craps Glossary & Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
Introduction to Craps
Craps is often hailed as the most exhilarating table game in the casino. With players gathered around the table, cheering and groaning with each roll of the dice, the energy is palpable. Despite its vibrant atmosphere, many newcomers are initially intimidated by the seemingly complex layout and the rapid-fire action. However, beneath this facade of complexity lies a game of straightforward rules and simple bets that can be quickly mastered.
The core of craps revolves around the roll of two six-sided dice. The game is played in rounds, with the first roll of a new round called the "come-out roll." The primary objective is to predict the outcome of these rolls. While the table layout may seem intricate at first glance, understanding a few key bets can demystify the game.
The most fundamental bet in craps is the "Pass Line" bet. This wager is placed before the come-out roll. If the shooter (the player rolling the dice) rolls a 7 or 11, Pass Line bets win immediately with a payout of 1:1. Conversely, if a 2, 3, or 12 is rolled, these bets lose. Any other number rolled (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) establishes a "point." The goal then becomes rolling the point number again before a 7 to win the Pass Line bet.
For those who prefer to bet against the shooter, the "Don't Pass" line offers an alternative. This bet wins if the come-out roll is a 2 or 3 and loses if it's a 7 or 11. A roll of 12 results in a push, meaning the bet neither wins nor loses. Once a point is established, Don't Pass bets win if a 7 is rolled before the point number.
While the myriad of betting options can appear daunting, focusing on a few simple bets like Pass Line and Don't Pass can ease newcomers into the game. With a house edge of just 1.41% and 1.36% respectively, these bets also offer some of the best odds in the casino. For both novices and seasoned players, craps combines excitement with the potential for strategic play, making it a perennial favorite on the casino floor.

History of Craps
The game of Craps, as it is known today, has a rich and varied history that spans several centuries and continents. Its origins can be traced back to an English game called Hazard, which dates back to at least the 14th century. Hazard was a popular game among the English nobility and involved complex rules and a variety of bets, making it a precursor to modern craps.
From Hazard to New Orleans
In the early 19th century, a simplified version of Hazard was brought to New Orleans by Bernard Xavier Philippe de Marigny de Mandeville, a wealthy landowner and gambler. He named the game "Crapaud," which is French for "toad," a nod to the way players would crouch like toads over the ground to shoot dice. Over time, the name evolved to "Craps."
New Orleans, being a melting pot of cultures and a bustling port city, provided the perfect environment for Craps to thrive. The game quickly spread throughout the city and became a staple pastime on the streets and in gambling dens.
Mississippi Riverboats
As the game gained popularity in New Orleans, it began to spread up the Mississippi River on the riverboats that were the lifeblood of trade and travel in the 19th-century United States. These riverboats were known for their gambling activities, and Craps was a favorite among passengers and crew alike. The gameโs simplicity and the excitement of the roll made it particularly well-suited to the lively atmosphere aboard the boats.
The version of Craps played on the riverboats was further refined to accommodate the limited space and resources available. This portability and adaptability helped solidify Craps as a popular gambling game throughout the southern United States.
Las Vegas Casinos
With the advent of Las Vegas as a gambling mecca in the 20th century, Craps found a permanent home in the city's burgeoning casinos. The first legal craps games in Las Vegas began in the early 1930s, following the legalization of gambling in Nevada in 1931. The casinos in Las Vegas offered a more formal and structured version of the game than had been seen on the riverboats, complete with dedicated tables and professional dealers.
In Las Vegas, Craps evolved to include a wider variety of bets, increasing the game's complexity and appeal. The multi-bet layout and fast pace of the game attracted gamblers looking for excitement and the chance to win big. Today, Craps remains one of the most popular games in casinos worldwide, known for its dynamic play and the camaraderie it fosters among players.
The journey of Craps from its origins in Hazard to its current form in the casinos of Las Vegas is a testament to the game's enduring appeal. Its evolution reflects changes in society, technology, and the gambling industry over the centuries, making Craps a fascinating subject for both historians and gamblers alike.
The Craps Table: Full Layout Guide
The craps table is the heart of the game, where players gather around to place their bets and watch the action unfold. Understanding the layout is crucial for anyone looking to master craps. This guide will walk you through every section of the craps table, the roles of the casino staff, and the specific areas for placing chips.
Table Layout
The craps table is typically a large, oval-shaped surface covered with green felt, marked with various betting areas. The standard table is approximately 12 to 14 feet long and can accommodate up to 20 players. The layout is mirrored on each side to allow more players to participate simultaneously.
Sections of the Table
- Pass Line: Located at the front edge of the table, this is where players place their initial bets on the shooter winning the roll.
- Don't Pass Line: Just inside the Pass Line, this area is for bets against the shooter, anticipating a loss on the roll.
- Come Area: Positioned inside the Pass Line, used for Come bets, which are similar to Pass Line bets but placed after the come-out roll.
- Don't Come Area: Adjacent to the Come Area, for Don't Come bets, opposing the shooter after the come-out roll.
- Place Bets: Above the Come and Don't Come areas, players can bet on specific numbers being rolled before a 7.
- Field Bets: A one-roll bet area covering numbers 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, and 12, with different payouts for certain numbers.
- Proposition Bets: Located in the center of the table, these are one-roll bets with higher payouts and higher house edges.
Player Positions
Players stand around the table, each with access to the betting areas. The table is designed so that players can stand comfortably and reach the areas where they wish to place their bets.
Casino Staff
The craps table is managed by a team of casino staff, each with specific roles to ensure the game runs smoothly:
- Stickman: Positioned at the center of the table, the stickman uses a long stick to move dice around, announces the results of each roll, and manages proposition bets.
- Boxman: Sitting opposite the stickman, the boxman oversees the game, handles disputes, and manages the casinoโs chips.
- Dealers: There are typically two dealers, one on each side of the boxman, responsible for paying out winning bets and collecting losing ones. They also assist players in placing bets.
Chip Areas
Each player has a designated area in front of them for their chips. Players should keep their chips organized and within their designated area to avoid confusion with others' bets.
Understanding the layout of the craps table and the roles of the staff is essential for new players and seasoned experts alike. By knowing where to place bets and how the game operates, players can focus on developing their strategies and enhancing their gameplay experience.
The Come-Out Roll & Pass Line
The come-out roll is a pivotal moment in the game of Craps, marking the beginning of a new round and setting the stage for subsequent bets. This roll determines the initial outcome for players wagering on the pass line, one of the most common and straightforward bets in Craps. Understanding the mechanics of the come-out roll and the subsequent phases of a pass line bet is crucial for both novice and experienced players.
Mechanics of the Come-Out Roll
The come-out roll is the first roll of the dice in a new round. During this roll, players have the opportunity to make a pass line bet, which is a wager that the shooter will win. The results of the come-out roll can lead to an immediate win, loss, or the establishment of a point. Let's explore these possibilities:
- Natural (7 or 11): If the come-out roll is a 7 or 11, known as a "natural," pass line bets win immediately.
- Craps (2, 3, or 12): If the roll is a 2, 3, or 12, known as "craps," pass line bets lose immediately.
- Point Establishment: If any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) is rolled, that number becomes the "point," and the game moves to the next phase.
Probabilities of the Come-Out Roll
The probabilities associated with the come-out roll are essential for strategic betting. Below is a detailed breakdown of the possible outcomes:
| Come-Out Roll Result | Outcome | Probability (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | Natural โ Pass Line Wins | 16.67% |
| 11 | Natural โ Pass Line Wins | 5.56% |
| 2 | Craps โ Pass Line Loses | 2.78% |
| 3 | Craps โ Pass Line Loses | 5.56% |
| 12 | Craps โ Pass Line Loses | 2.78% |
| 4 | Point Established | 8.33% |
| 5 | Point Established | 11.11% |
| 6 | Point Established | 13.89% |
| 8 | Point Established | 13.89% |
| 9 | Point Established | 11.11% |
| 10 | Point Established | 8.33% |
Establishing the Point
When a point is established, the shooter continues to roll the dice until they either roll the point number again, resulting in a win for pass line bets, or roll a 7, resulting in a loss, known as a "7-out." The probabilities of hitting the point versus rolling a 7 vary depending on the point number:
- Point 4 or 10: Probability of rolling the point before a 7 is approximately 33.33%.
- Point 5 or 9: Probability of rolling the point before a 7 is approximately 40.00%.
- Point 6 or 8: Probability of rolling the point before a 7 is approximately 45.45%.
Understanding these probabilities helps players make informed decisions about their bets and manage their expectations as the game progresses. The come-out roll and the subsequent establishment of a point are foundational elements of Craps strategy, setting the tone for each round and influencing betting decisions.
The Free Odds Bet: The Best Bet in Any Casino
The Free Odds Bet in craps is often hailed as the best bet in any casino. This is due to its unique feature of having a 0% house edge, making it an exceptional opportunity for players. Understanding how to effectively utilize the Free Odds Bet can significantly improve your chances at the craps table.
What is the Free Odds Bet?
The Free Odds Bet is an additional wager that players can make once a point has been established during a game of craps. This bet is placed behind the Pass Line bet, effectively "backing up" your original wager. Unlike other bets on the craps table, the Free Odds Bet is paid at true odds, meaning there is no house edge. This gives the player a fair chance against the casino.
True Odds Payouts
The payouts for the Free Odds Bet depend on the point number established:
- Point 4 or 10: Pays 2:1
- Point 5 or 9: Pays 3:2
- Point 6 or 8: Pays 6:5
These payouts reflect the true mathematical odds of rolling the point number before a seven, ensuring no advantage is given to the house.
How to Place the Free Odds Bet
To place the Free Odds Bet, you must first have a Pass Line bet in play. Once a point is established, you can place an additional wager directly behind your Pass Line bet. This additional bet is your Free Odds Bet. The amount you can wager depends on the casino's maximum odds policy, which is typically a multiple of your original Pass Line bet.
Maximum Odds and House Edge
Different casinos offer varying maximum odds, which directly impact the overall house edge of your combined bets. The table below outlines the blended house edge when incorporating Free Odds Bets with Pass Line bets:
| Max Odds Multiple | Blended House Edge (Pass + Odds) |
|---|---|
| 1x odds | 0.848% |
| 2x odds | 0.606% |
| 3x-4x-5x odds | 0.374% |
| 10x odds | 0.184% |
| 100x odds | 0.021% |
As shown, the more you can bet on odds, the lower the overall house edge becomes. Some casinos, particularly in Downtown Las Vegas, offer generous odds of 10x or even 100x, significantly reducing the house's advantage. Online craps platforms often provide unlimited odds, making them an attractive option for strategic players.
Conclusion
The Free Odds Bet is a crucial element for any serious craps player. By taking advantage of this bet, you can greatly reduce the house edge, making craps one of the most player-friendly games in the casino. Whether playing at a physical table or online, understanding and utilizing the Free Odds Bet is essential for maximizing your potential winnings and enjoying the game to its fullest.
Come, Don't Pass & Don't Come Bets
Understanding Come Bets
After the come-out roll establishes a point, players have the option to place a Come Bet. A Come Bet functions similarly to a Pass Line Bet, but it is made after a point has been set. When placing a Come Bet, the next roll becomes a mini come-out roll for that specific wager.
If a 7 or 11 is rolled immediately after placing a Come Bet, the player wins. Conversely, if a 2, 3, or 12 is rolled, the player loses. Any other number rolled establishes a point for the Come Bet, and the player wins if that number is rolled again before a 7. The house edge for a Come Bet is identical to that of the Pass Line Bet, standing at 1.41%.
Don't Pass and Don't Come Bets: The 'Wrong Way' Bets
The Don't Pass Bet is placed before the come-out roll and is essentially the opposite of the Pass Line Bet. Similarly, the Don't Come Bet is the counterpart to the Come Bet, placed after a point has been established. These bets are often referred to as 'wrong way' bets because they are fundamentally betting against the shooter.
For the Don't Pass Bet, the player wins on a come-out roll of 2 or 3, loses on a 7 or 11, and pushes (neither wins nor loses) on a 12, due to the 'bar 12' rule. This rule is in place to maintain the slight edge for the house. If a point is established, the player wins if a 7 is rolled before the point number. The same logic applies to the Don't Come Bet after a point is established.
The house edge for both Don't Pass and Don't Come Bets is slightly lower than their counterparts, at 1.36%. This makes them marginally better from a purely mathematical standpoint. However, socially, these bets are often frowned upon since they bet against the shooter, who is often another player.
Comparison of Pass Line, Come, Don't Pass, and Don't Come Bets
| Bet Type | House Edge | Payout | Key Rules |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pass Line | 1.41% | 1:1 | Wins on 7 or 11 on come-out; loses on 2, 3, 12; point must be made before 7 |
| Come | 1.41% | 1:1 | Wins on 7 or 11 after placed; loses on 2, 3, 12; point must be made before 7 |
| Don't Pass | 1.36% | 1:1 | Wins on 2 or 3 on come-out; loses on 7 or 11; bar 12; 7 must come before point |
| Don't Come | 1.36% | 1:1 | Wins on 2 or 3 after placed; loses on 7 or 11; bar 12; 7 must come before point |
Strategically, while the Don't Pass and Don't Come Bets offer a slightly better expected value (EV) due to their lower house edge, they are less popular due to their nature of betting against the shooter. Players who prioritize mathematical advantage over social dynamics might find these bets more appealing. However, it's important to consider the atmosphere of the table, as betting against the shooter can sometimes lead to tension among players.
Place Bets, Buy Bets & Lay Bets
In the game of Craps, understanding Place Bets, Buy Bets, and Lay Bets is crucial for optimizing your strategy. These bets offer players the opportunity to wager on specific numbers after the point has been established. Each type of bet has its own characteristics, payout structures, and strategic implications. This section will explore the mechanics, probabilities, and strategies associated with these bets.
Place Bets
Place Bets allow you to wager on the box numbers: 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, and 10. Unlike Pass Line bets, Place Bets can be made at any time, and you are betting that the chosen number will be rolled before a 7. The payouts for Place Bets vary depending on the number:
| Place Bet On | Payout | House Edge | True Odds | Buy Instead? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 or 10 | 9:5 | 6.67% | 2:1 | Yes (Buy: 4.76% with $1 commission) |
| 5 or 9 | 7:5 | 4.00% | 3:2 | No (same HE as Buy) |
| 6 or 8 | 7:6 | 1.52% | 6:5 | No (best Place bet) |
The Place 6 and Place 8 are particularly attractive bets due to their low house edge of 1.52%, making them among the best bets in Craps. Conversely, Place 4 and Place 10 have a high house edge of 6.67%, making them less favorable.
Buy Bets
Buy Bets are similar to Place Bets but offer true odds payouts with a commission. You pay a 5% commission on the amount you bet to receive odds that more closely match the true odds of the game. This commission is typically $1 for every $20 bet. Buy Bets are especially advantageous for the numbers 4 and 10 because they decrease the house edge to 4.76% when the commission is correctly applied.
When deciding between a Place Bet and a Buy Bet on the numbers 4 and 10, opting for the Buy Bet is generally the wiser choice due to the lower house edge. However, for numbers 5, 6, 8, and 9, the house edge remains the same or better with Place Bets, making Buy Bets unnecessary.
Lay Bets
Lay Bets are the opposite of Buy Bets and are favored by "wrong-way" players who bet against the shooter. With Lay Bets, you are betting that a 7 will be rolled before the number you choose. The payout structure is based on the true odds, but you must pay a commission on the win amount.
For example, if you lay a bet on the number 4 or 10, you will receive a payout of 1:2, reflecting the true odds of the 7 appearing before the 4 or 10. The commission here works similarly to Buy Bets, where a 5% commission is charged on the potential winnings. Lay Bets are strategically useful for players who prefer to bet against the shooter and capitalize on the frequency of the 7.
Understanding the differences between Place Bets, Buy Bets, and Lay Bets will enhance your Craps strategy significantly. By selecting the right type of bet for each situation, you can minimize the house edge and maximize your potential returns. Remember, while Place Bets on 6 and 8 are excellent due to their low house edge, it is often better to Buy 4 and 10 to take advantage of the reduced house edge with the commission.
Complete Craps Bets Reference: Every Bet Ranked
In the game of Craps, understanding the variety of bets available and their respective advantages or disadvantages is crucial for any player. Below, we present a comprehensive reference table that ranks every possible bet in Craps based on payout, house edge, and overall recommendation. This table provides the essential information you need to make informed decisions at the Craps table.
| Bet | Payout | House Edge | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pass Line | 1:1 | 1.41% | โ โ โ โ โ Essential |
| Don't Pass | 1:1 | 1.36% | โ โ โ โ โ Excellent |
| Come | 1:1 | 1.41% | โ โ โ โ โ Great |
| Don't Come | 1:1 | 1.36% | โ โ โ โ โ Great |
| Pass/Come Odds | True Odds | 0.00% | โ โ โ โ โ Max it! |
| Place 6 or 8 | 7:6 | 1.52% | โ โ โ โ Good |
| Place 5 or 9 | 7:5 | 4.00% | โ โ โ Acceptable |
| Place 4 or 10 | 9:5 | 6.67% | โ โ Poor |
| Buy 4 or 10 | 2:1 | 4.76% | โ โ โ Better than Place |
| Big 6 or Big 8 | 1:1 | 9.09% | โ Never (same as Place 6 but worse pay) |
| Field Bet | 1:1 / 2:1 | 2.78-5.56% | โ โ Situational |
| Any Seven | 4:1 | 16.67% | โ Never |
| Any Craps | 7:1 | 11.11% | โ Avoid |
| Hardway 6 or 8 | 9:1 | 9.09% | โ Avoid |
| Hardway 4 or 10 | 7:1 | 11.11% | โ Avoid |
| Horn Bet | varies | ~12.5% | โ Never |
| Proposition Bets | varies | 11-17% | โ Never |
In this table, each bet is evaluated based on its payout, house edge, and an overall rating to guide your betting strategy. The Pass Line and Don't Pass bets are foundational, offering relatively low house edges and straightforward payouts, making them essential for any Craps player. The Pass/Come Odds bet is unique in that it has no house edge, making it the best bet you can place; however, it can only be placed in conjunction with the Pass Line or Come bets.
Place Bets on 6 or 8 are also favorable due to their low house edge compared to other Place Bets. The Field Bet can be appealing due to its immediate payout, but its fluctuating house edge requires careful consideration. In contrast, bets like Any Seven and Proposition Bets carry significantly higher house edges, making them poor choices for long-term play.
Understanding these bets and their implications is crucial for optimizing your Craps strategy. While the allure of high payouts from bets like the Hardway or Horn Bet can be tempting, their steep house edges make them risky propositions. Stick to the bets with lower house edges for a more sustainable and successful Craps experience.
Beginner Strategy: The 3-Bet System
The 3-Bet System is an excellent strategy for new players looking to get their feet wet in the game of Craps while maintaining a house edge under 0.5%. This strategy involves three simple components: a Pass Line bet, a maximum Odds bet, and a single Come bet with Odds. This approach not only simplifies the game but also gives players a strong foundation for understanding the dynamics of Craps.
The Strategy Components
- Pass Line Bet: This is the fundamental bet in Craps, placed before the come-out roll. It wins if the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 and loses if they roll a 2, 3, or 12. Any other number establishes a point.
- Maximum Odds Bet: Once a point is established, players can take odds, which is the best bet in the casino because it has no house edge. The maximum odds vary by casino, commonly 3x, 4x, or 5x the Pass Line bet.
- Come Bet with Odds: Similar to the Pass Line bet, but placed after the point is established. It creates a new point for the player, and again, players can take odds on this bet.
Example Game Using the 3-Bet System
Let's walk through a complete example to illustrate this strategy in action:
- Place a $10 Pass Line Bet: The game begins with the come-out roll. Suppose the shooter rolls a 4. The point is now established at 4.
- Take Maximum Odds: Assume the casino allows 3x odds. You place a $30 Odds bet behind your $10 Pass Line bet.
- Add a $10 Come Bet: You place a $10 Come bet. The shooter rolls a 9. The Come bet now moves to 9 as its point.
- Take Odds on the Come Bet: Again, assuming 3x odds, place a $30 Odds bet behind your $10 Come bet.
At this stage, your total bets are:
- $10 on the Pass Line
- $30 in Odds on the Pass Line
- $10 on the Come bet
- $30 in Odds on the Come bet
The shooter continues to roll:
- If a 4 is rolled: You win both the Pass Line and the Odds bet. The Pass Line bet pays 1:1 ($10) and the Odds bet pays 2:1 ($60). You can now place a new Pass Line bet and continue the game.
- If a 9 is rolled: You win the Come bet and its Odds. The Come bet pays 1:1 ($10) and the Odds pay 3:2 ($45). You can place another Come bet if you wish.
- If a 7 is rolled: You lose all bets. This is the risk, but itโs balanced by the low house edge.
Understanding the House Edge
The house edge for the Pass Line and Come bets is 1.41%, but when you add Odds, the edge effectively drops because the Odds bet itself has a 0% house edge. With maximum Odds, the overall house edge on these combined bets can drop to below 0.5%, depending on the Odds multiple allowed by the casino.
Conclusion
The 3-Bet System is a robust strategy for beginners. By focusing on the Pass Line, taking full advantage of the Odds, and incorporating a single Come bet, players can enjoy a game with minimal house edge while learning the flow of Craps. This strategy balances simplicity with effectiveness, making it ideal for those new to the game while still being appreciated by seasoned players for its low-risk profile.
Bankroll Management for Craps
Effective bankroll management is crucial for any craps player, whether you're a novice or a seasoned expert. With the game's inherent volatility, having a strategy to manage your funds can protect you from significant losses and enhance your overall gaming experience. In this section, we will cover the volatility of craps, how to determine your session bankroll, appropriate bet sizing, and implementing a stop-loss strategy specifically for the Pass Line and Odds bets.
Understanding the Volatility of Craps
Craps is a high-energy game with a wide range of betting options, each carrying its own level of risk and potential reward. The volatility of craps stems from the rapid pace of the game and the variety of bets with different house edges. For example, the Pass Line bet has a house edge of 1.41%, while the Any 7 bet has a house edge of 16.67%. This variability means that while you can experience thrilling winning streaks, you can also encounter swift losing runs. Understanding this volatility is the first step in managing your bankroll effectively.
Determining Your Session Bankroll
Your session bankroll is the amount of money you are willing to risk in a single sitting at the craps table. A common guideline is to allocate 1% to 5% of your total gambling bankroll to a single session, depending on your risk tolerance. For example, if your total gambling bankroll is $1,000, your session bankroll might range from $10 to $50. This approach helps ensure that you can withstand the game's fluctuations without depleting your funds too quickly.
Bet Sizing for Craps
Bet sizing is a critical component of bankroll management. A standard recommendation is to limit each bet to 1% to 2% of your session bankroll. For instance, if your session bankroll is $200, your individual bets should be between $2 and $4. This conservative approach allows you to extend your playtime and increases your chances of riding out any losing streaks.
When placing Pass Line bets with Odds, it's important to consider the table's odds limits. Many casinos offer 3x, 4x, or 5x odds, which means you can place odds bets that are 3, 4, or 5 times your Pass Line bet. Ensure your bankroll can support these additional wagers when determining your initial bet size.
Implementing a Stop-Loss Strategy for Pass Line and Odds
Setting a stop-loss limit is an essential part of any bankroll management plan. A stop-loss limit is a predetermined amount you are willing to lose before walking away from the table. For the Pass Line and Odds bets, a common stop-loss strategy is to limit your losses to 20% to 30% of your session bankroll. This means if your session bankroll is $200, you would stop playing after losing $40 to $60.
By adhering to a stop-loss strategy, you prevent yourself from chasing losses, which can lead to even greater financial setbacks. Additionally, setting win goals can help you lock in profits during a winning session. A typical win goal might be 50% of your session bankroll, so with a $200 bankroll, you would aim to leave the table once you've won an additional $100.
In conclusion, effective bankroll management involves understanding the volatility of craps, carefully determining your session bankroll, sizing your bets appropriately, and implementing stop-loss and win goals. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the excitement of craps while minimizing financial risk.
Common Mistakes & Craps Etiquette
Sucker Bets: Big 6, Any 7, and Proposition Bets
One of the most common mistakes new players make is engaging in sucker bets. These are bets with a high house edge that significantly reduce your chances of winning. Knowing which bets to avoid is crucial for any craps player aiming to maximize their bankroll.
- Big 6 and Big 8: These bets pay even money (1:1) when a 6 or 8 is rolled before a 7. The house edge on these bets is a whopping 9.09%. Instead, place the 6 or 8 directly, where the house edge is reduced to 1.52%.
- Any 7: This is a single-roll bet that wins if a 7 is rolled. It pays 4:1, but the house edge is 16.67%. This makes it one of the worst bets on the table.
- Proposition Bets: These are one-roll bets in the center of the table, like Hardways, Horn, and Yo. While they offer high payouts, the house edge ranges from 11.11% to 16.67%, making them poor choices for serious players.
Table Etiquette
Understanding and respecting craps table etiquette is essential for a smooth gaming experience. Here are key points to keep in mind:
- Buy-in and Cash Handling: Approach the table when the dice are in the middle, and place your money on the table rather than handing it directly to the dealer.
- Don't Interrupt the Shooter: Avoid placing bets when the shooter is about to throw the dice. Wait until the dice are back in the middle of the table.
- Be Polite and Respectful: Maintain a positive attitude, congratulate other players on wins, and avoid criticizing their betting choices.
Verbal Bets
Verbal bets can be made, but clarity is crucial. Always make your intentions clear to the dealer, especially when placing complex bets like the Horn or Hardways. Confirm the bet amount and the type of bet to avoid any confusion. Remember, once the dice are in play, verbal bets cannot be changed.
Handling Chips and Dice
Proper handling of chips and dice is vital for maintaining the flow of the game and ensuring fairness.
- Handling Chips: Place your chips in the designated betting areas and avoid touching other players' chips. This minimizes disputes and maintains table integrity.
- Dice Handling: When it's your turn to shoot, use only one hand to pick up the dice. Roll them down the table with enough force to hit the back wall, ensuring a fair roll.
By avoiding sucker bets, adhering to table etiquette, making clear verbal bets, and properly handling chips and dice, you enhance not only your own gaming experience but also that of your fellow players. These practices help maintain a respectful and enjoyable atmosphere at the craps table.
Craps Variations
Craps is a versatile game with several variations that cater to different preferences and betting styles. Understanding these variations can enhance your gaming experience and strategy. Here, we cover five popular variations: Bank Craps, Crapless Craps, High Point Craps, Simplified Craps, and Online Craps.
Bank Craps
Bank Craps, also known as Casino Craps, is the traditional version played in most casinos. It follows the standard rules covered earlier in this guide, including the Pass Line, Don't Pass, Come, and Don't Come bets. The house edge for the Pass Line bet is 1.41%, making it a popular choice for players. Bank Craps allows for a wide range of bets, offering both high-risk and low-risk options.
Crapless Craps
Crapless Craps eliminates the Don't Pass line losing on the come-out roll when a 2, 3, or 12 is rolled. Instead, these numbers become point numbers. This variation increases the house edge significantly, as players cannot lose on the come-out roll with craps numbers. The house edge for the Pass Line bet in Crapless Craps is approximately 5.38%, making it less favorable than Bank Craps for strategic players.
High Point Craps
In High Point Craps, the shooter wins immediately if they roll an 11 or 12 on the come-out roll. If the shooter rolls a 2 or 3, the dice are returned, and the shooter rolls again. Any other number becomes the point, and the objective is to roll a higher number to win. The house edge for High Point Craps is about 2.35%, which is higher than standard Bank Craps but offers a unique twist for players seeking variety.
Simplified Craps
Simplified Craps removes the complexity of the traditional game by eliminating many bets. Players win if they roll a 2, 3, 4, 10, 11, or 12 and lose if they roll a 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9. The house edge for Simplified Craps is approximately 2.8%. This version is ideal for beginners who want to learn the game without being overwhelmed by options.
Online Craps
Online Craps offers the convenience of playing from home while maintaining the rules and excitement of traditional Craps. Online platforms often provide variations, including live dealer options and digital versions that simulate the casino experience. The house edge and rules typically mirror those of Bank Craps, but players should review each platform's specifics. Online Craps can offer bonuses and promotions, but it's crucial to understand any wagering requirements.
Each variation of Craps presents unique rules and strategies. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, exploring these variations can provide new challenges and opportunities to refine your skills.
Craps Glossary & Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
This section provides a comprehensive glossary of craps terms and a quick reference cheat sheet highlighting the best bets in craps. Understanding these terms and knowing which bets to prioritize can significantly enhance your craps experience and improve your strategic play.
Craps Glossary
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Pass Line Bet | A fundamental bet placed before the come-out roll where the player wins if the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 and loses if a 2, 3, or 12 is rolled. |
| Don't Pass Bet | The opposite of the Pass Line Bet; wins if the come-out roll is 2 or 3, ties on 12, and loses on 7 or 11. |
| Come Bet | Mimics a Pass Line Bet but can be made after the point is established. Wins on 7 or 11 and loses on 2, 3, or 12. |
| Don't Come Bet | The opposite of the Come Bet. Wins on 2 or 3, ties on 12, and loses on 7 or 11 after a point is established. |
| Odds Bet | A supplementary bet with no house edge that can be placed after a Pass, Don't Pass, Come, or Don't Come bet. |
| Place Bet | Betting that a specific number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) will be rolled before a 7. |
| Buy Bet | Similar to a Place Bet but pays true odds minus a 5% commission. |
| Lay Bet | Betting against a specific number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10), winning if a 7 is rolled before the number. |
| Hardways | Betting that a pair of doubles (2-2, 3-3, 4-4, 5-5) will be rolled before a 7 or an easy way (not doubles). |
| The Point | The number established on the come-out roll that must be rolled again before a 7 to win a Pass Line Bet. |
| Craps Numbers | The numbers 2, 3, and 12, which result in a loss for Pass Line bets on the come-out roll. |
| Seven Out | When a 7 is rolled before the point number, ending the round and resulting in a loss for Pass Line bets. |
| Big Red | A bet on the number 7. |
| Snake Eyes | A roll of two 1s, totaling 2. |
| Boxcars | A roll of two 6s, totaling 12. |
| Field Bet | A one-roll bet that wins on 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, and 12. |
| Big 6/8 | A bet that a 6 or 8 will be rolled before a 7. Generally considered a poor bet due to the house edge. |
| Come-Out Roll | The initial roll of the dice to establish a point. |
| True Odds | The actual odds of rolling a number, with no house edge. |
| House Edge | The statistical advantage the casino has over the player on a particular bet. |
| Vig | Short for vigorish, a commission charged by the casino on certain bets, such as Buy or Lay bets. |
| Yo | Slang for the number 11, used to avoid confusion with the number 7. |
| Hi-Lo | A bet on the next roll being either a 2 or 12. |
| Hop Bet | A one-roll bet on a specific combination of the dice. |
| Stickman | The casino employee who manages the dice and calls out the outcomes of each roll. |
| Boxman | The casino employee who supervises the craps table and handles cash transactions. |
| Pit Boss | The supervisor responsible for overseeing multiple gaming tables, including craps. |
| Marker | A credit issued by the casino to a player, often used for high-limit play. |
| Rail | The area of the craps table where players keep their chips. |
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet: Best Bets in Craps
For optimal play, focus on the following bets, ranked by their statistical advantage and potential payouts:
| Bet | Description | House Edge |
|---|---|---|
| Pass Line + Odds | Begin with a Pass Line Bet and back it up with Free Odds after the point is established. | 1.41% (Pass Line), 0% (Odds) |
| Don't Pass + Odds | Start with a Don't Pass Bet and add Odds once the point is set. | 1.36% (Don't Pass), 0% (Odds) |
| Come + Odds | Place a Come Bet after the point is set, then take Odds. | 1.41% (Come), 0% (Odds) |
| Place 6/8 | Betting on the numbers 6 or 8 to be rolled before a 7. | 1.52% |
These bets offer the most favorable odds and lowest house edge, making them the cornerstone of a solid craps strategy. Focus on mastering these bets to enhance your chances of success at the craps table.