Craps Bets: Understanding Popular Table Options

Lucio Tremblay PhD

As avid enthusiasts of the exhilarating game of craps, we are often drawn to the vibrant energy of the casino floor, where every roll of the dice holds the promise of fortune and excitement. Our shared passion for this captivating game has led us to explore the myriad of betting options available, each offering its own unique blend of risk and reward.

In this article, we will delve into the popular bets that captivate both seasoned players and newcomers alike, offering insights into their rules, odds, and strategies.

Popular Bets in Craps:

  1. Pass Line Bets:

    • A fundamental bet in craps.
    • Wins if the come-out roll is 7 or 11.
    • Loses if the roll is 2, 3, or 12.
    • If another number is rolled, it becomes the "point," and the goal is to roll the point again before rolling a 7.

  2. Come Bets:

    • Similar to Pass Line bets but can be made after the point is established.
    • Wins on a roll of 7 or 11.
    • Loses on a roll of 2, 3, or 12.
    • Any other number rolled becomes the player’s "come point."

  3. Place Bets:

    • Bets on specific numbers (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) to roll before a 7.
    • Offers different payout odds depending on the number chosen.

Whether we are betting for fun or with serious intent, understanding these options enhances our appreciation of craps and empowers us to make informed decisions.

Join us as we unravel the nuances of these bets and embrace the thrill of the game.

Pass Line Bets

The Pass Line Bet: An Introduction

The Pass Line bet is the most straightforward and popular wager in craps. As a community of craps enthusiasts, we embrace this bet for its simplicity and the sense of camaraderie it fosters at the table. When we place our chips on the Pass Line, we’re rooting for the shooter to win, creating a shared experience that brings us together.

How the Pass Line Bet Works

  • Initial Roll (Come-Out Roll):

    • If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, we win!
    • If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12, we lose our wager.

  • Point Establishment:

    • If any other number appears, it becomes the "point."
    • We then cheer for the shooter to roll the point number again before hitting a 7.

Why We Love the Pass Line Bet

  • Favorable Odds:
    • The Pass Line bet boasts a house edge of only 1.41%, allowing us to enjoy the game with a good balance of risk and excitement.

This blend of simplicity, community spirit, and favorable odds makes the Pass Line bet a beloved choice among craps players.

Come Bets

Come Bets in Craps

Many of us find Come Bets to be an exciting extension of the Pass Line bet, offering additional opportunities to engage with the game as each new roll unfolds. In craps, placing a Come Bet allows us to join the action at any point, making us feel like part of the vibrant table community.

How Come Bets Work

Once the shooter rolls a point number, our Come Bet acts just like a Pass Line bet on the next roll. The winning numbers for a Come Bet are:

  • 7
  • 11

The losing numbers are:

  • 2
  • 3
  • 12

Advantages of Come Bets

What really makes Come Bets appealing is the ability to take odds on them, just like with Pass Line bets. This means we can increase our wagers with the added benefit of true odds, enhancing our potential payouts without the house’s typical edge.

Strategic Involvement

By strategically placing Come Bets and taking odds, we become more deeply involved in the craps experience. This strategy allows us to share in the collective excitement and camaraderie of the table.

Place Bets

Place Bets offer a flexible way to wager on specific numbers and potentially win payouts with each roll of the dice. In the craps community, this option lets us choose numbers:

  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 8
  • 9
  • 10

Advantages of Place Bets:

  • Not tied to the come-out roll, giving us more control over our wagers.
  • Bet by placing chips behind the number of our choice, and win if that number rolls before a 7.

Social Aspect:

The camaraderie at the table is a significant part of the experience, as everyone cheers for our numbers.

Understanding the Odds:

  1. 6 and 8: Better odds, paying 7:6.
  2. 5 and 9: Pay 7:5.
  3. 4 and 10: Offer the highest payout at 9:5.

By carefully choosing our Place Bets, we can maximize our experience and enjoy the thrill with every roll, feeling connected with our fellow players at the table.

Field Bets

Field Bets offer us a quick and exciting way to engage with the game, allowing us to win or lose on each roll. As we gather around the craps table, Field Bets create a sense of camaraderie and anticipation.

How Field Bets Work:

  • These wagers are straightforward, requiring us to bet on the roll outcome being one of the following numbers:

    • 2
    • 3
    • 4
    • 9
    • 10
    • 11
    • 12

  • When one of these numbers is rolled, we’re instantly rewarded, adding to the thrill of the moment.

Odds and Payouts:

  • The odds of winning a Field Bet vary, but the payouts are tempting:
    • Typically even money for most numbers
    • Numbers 2 and 12 often offer higher returns

This simplicity makes Field Bets a popular choice among us, especially for those who enjoy fast-paced action and immediate results.

By placing our wagers on these numbers, we join in a shared experience with fellow players, all hoping for that lucky roll. Field Bets remind us that craps is not just a game of chance, but also a game of shared joy and excitement.

Hardway Bets

Hardway Bets add a strategic twist to our craps game by challenging us to predict specific doubles before any easier combination appears. As a community of craps enthusiasts, we thrive on the thrill of this wager.

We bet on doubles like:

  • 2-2, known as hard 4
  • 3-3, known as hard 6

The excitement lies in the unique odds these bets offer. Only a precise roll of the dice can win us the wager, making the anticipation feel like we’re all in it together.

When we place a Hardway Bet, we’re essentially declaring our confidence in these specific combinations. The camaraderie at the table heightens as we share the risk and reward.

Key Points:

  • The odds aren’t always in our favor.
  • The potential payout makes it worthwhile.

In craps, understanding the nuances of Hardway Bets allows us to deepen our connection with fellow players, creating an environment where we’re all rooting for that perfect roll.

Big 6 and Big 8 Bets

Big 6 and Big 8 Bets at the Craps Table

Among the many betting options at the craps table, Big 6 and Big 8 Bets offer a straightforward wager that keeps us on the edge of our seats. In the lively atmosphere of the casino, these bets invite us to join in the excitement and camaraderie of the game.

How It Works:

  • We place our wagers on the table, hoping for a roll of 6 or 8 before a 7 comes up.
  • By betting on Big 6 or Big 8, we’re essentially betting that either number will appear before a 7.

Why They Appeal:

  • The odds may not be the best, but the thrill of anticipation is unmatched.
  • It’s a simple concept that allows us to quickly engage with the game, sharing the highs and lows with fellow players.
  • Although the house edge is higher for these wagers, the ease of understanding makes them appealing.

As we cheer for our numbers, we become part of a shared experience, embracing the unpredictability that makes craps so captivating.

Don’t Pass Bets

Unlike the more common Pass Line bet, the Don’t Pass bet lets us root against the shooter for a different kind of thrill. In craps, this wager gives us an opportunity to stand apart, embracing a strategy that feels a bit rebellious but offers solid odds.

When we place a Don’t Pass bet, we’re betting that:

  1. The shooter will roll a 2 or 3 on the come-out roll.
  2. The shooter won’t make their point once it’s established.
  3. A roll of 12 results in a push, adding an intriguing twist to our game.

This bet positions us uniquely at the table, creating a camaraderie among those who enjoy going against the grain. We share in the excitement and anticipation, knowing our wagers are backed by favorable odds compared to other bets.

By choosing the Don’t Pass bet, we align ourselves with a savvy group of players who appreciate the strategic edge it offers, enhancing our overall craps experience and sense of belonging in the community.

Don’t Come Bets

In the world of craps, Don’t Come bets offer a strategic approach to stand against the prevailing momentum after the point is established. This type of wager aligns with the house, and while it might feel like going against the crowd, it can be a smart play for those who appreciate different angles.

Once the point is set, placing a Don’t Come bet is akin to a Don’t Pass bet on subsequent rolls, allowing players to subtly leverage the odds in their favor.

Understanding Don’t Come Bets:

  • The goal is for the shooter to roll a 7 before hitting the number established by the bet.
  • This approach is popular among players who enjoy a contrarian strategy.
  • It provides an opportunity to maximize potential returns by embracing calculated risks.

By embracing Don’t Come bets, players can broaden their craps experience, joining a community that values strategic diversity and calculated risks. This contrarian strategy allows players to find camaraderie in the shared goal of maximizing potential returns.

What is the history and origin of the game of Craps?

The History and Origin of Craps

The game of Craps dates back to the early 19th century. It evolved from a simplification of the game Hazard, which was popular in Europe.

Introduction to the United States

Craps made its way to the United States through French settlers. Over time, it became a staple in American casinos.

Modern-Day Craps

Today, Craps is a beloved dice game that offers:

  • Excitement
  • Camaraderie at the gaming table

How does the house edge impact the overall odds in Craps?

When we consider how the house edge impacts the overall odds in Craps, we understand that it directly affects our chances of winning.

The higher the house edge, the lower our odds of success. It’s crucial to be aware of this factor when placing bets, as it can greatly influence our potential outcomes.

By being knowledgeable about the house edge, we can:

  • Make more informed decisions
  • Potentially increase our chances of winning at the Craps table

Understanding the house edge is a key strategy for anyone looking to improve their gameplay and outcomes in Craps.

What strategies can beginners use to manage their bankroll effectively while playing Craps?

When managing our bankroll in Craps, we rely on smart strategies to ensure a sustainable gaming experience.

Key Strategies:

  • Setting limits on our bets helps us stay in control and avoid excessive losses.

  • Sticking to a budget ensures we don’t wager more than we can afford.

  • By spreading our bets wisely and knowing when to walk away, we keep our bankroll in check.

These approaches not only preserve our funds but also enhance the enjoyment of the game.

Conclusion

So, next time you’re at the craps table, remember to keep these popular bets in mind.

Types of Bets:

  • Pass Line Bet: A bet that the shooter will win on the come-out roll or make the point.
  • Come Bet: Similar to the Pass Line, but made after the point is established.
  • Don’t Pass Bet: A bet against the shooter, predicting they will not make the point.
  • Don’t Come Bet: Similar to the Don’t Pass, but made after the point is established.

Tips for Enhancing Your Experience:

  1. Understand the Options: Familiarize yourself with the various bets and their odds to make informed decisions.

  2. Choose Your Strategy: Decide whether you want to play aggressively or conservatively.

  3. Confidence: Approach the table with confidence, as it can influence your decision-making process.

Understanding the various table options can enhance your overall craps experience and potentially increase your chances of walking away a winner.

Good Luck and Roll Those Dice with Confidence!