Everything You Need to Know About Craps Bets
Introduction to Craps Bets
Craps is one of the most exciting games in any casino, featuring a mix of skill, strategy, and sheer luck. Originating from a simplified version of the Old English game Hazard, craps has evolved into a staple in both physical and online casinos. This guide aims to provide an in-depth look at the various types of craps bets, offering crucial insights to both newcomers and seasoned players. Understanding craps bets is essential for anyone looking to enhance their gaming strategy and potentially maximize their winnings. While the game itself may seem complex at first, breaking down each bet type can make it more approachable. Whether you’re playing at a glitzy Las Vegas casino or online from the comfort of your home, this article will prepare you to place your craps bets with confidence.
The Pass Line Bet
One of the most fundamental bets in craps is the Pass Line bet. This bet is made before the come-out roll, the very first roll in a new round of craps. If the come-out roll results in a 7 or 11, you win. If it's a 2, 3, or 12—known as "craps"—you lose. Any other number becomes the "point," and the objective is to roll the point number again before rolling a 7. This bet is widely popular due to its simplicity and favorable odds. It's the first bet that beginners will typically learn and master. Veteran players also frequently use the Pass Line bet as part of their broader craps strategies.
The Don’t Pass Line Bet
Contrary to the Pass Line bet, the Don’t Pass Line bet is essentially betting against the shooter. This bet is also placed before the come-out roll. If the come-out roll is a 2 or 3, you win, while a 7 or 11 results in a loss. A 12 results in a push, meaning no one wins or loses. If a point is established, your goal is for a 7 to appear before the point number is rolled again. The Don’t Pass Line bet can seem counterintuitive but provides an alternative viewpoint on the game, offering almost identical odds to the Pass Line bet. It’s an excellent option for players interested in a more defensive style of craps betting.
Come Bets Explained
Once a point is established, players can place Come bets. These work similarly to Pass Line bets but can be made at any time during the round. If the next roll after making a Come bet is a 7 or 11, you win, and if it's a 2, 3, or 12, you lose. If any other number is rolled, that number becomes the "come point," and you need to roll that number again before a 7 to win. Come bets add another layer to the game, allowing for more strategic betting and opportunities for wins. They are also a way to capitalize on successful streaks by spreading out your risk across multiple points on the table.
Don’t Come Bets
The Don't Come bet mirrors the strategy of the Don't Pass Line bet but applies after the come-out roll. You place this bet with the aim that a 7 will be rolled before the new come point number. A win is your result if a 2 or 3 appears, and you lose with a 7 or 11 on the first roll after the bet is placed. If a 12 shows up, it is a push. In subsequent rolls, you're hoping for a 7 to come up before the established come point. The Don't Come bet can be an advantageous strategy for players looking to hedge their bets or take a more cautious approach.
Odds Bets
Odds bets are unique as they are placed in addition to Pass Line, Come, Don’t Pass, or Don’t Come bets and carry no house edge. Once a point is established, you can wager additional money by taking odds. For example, if you have a Pass Line bet and the point is 4, you can place an odds bet that the 4 will come before a 7. The payout varies based on the point number: 1:2 for points of 4 and 10, 2:3 for 5 and 9, and 5:6 for 6 and 8. Taking full advantage of odds bets can significantly improve your returns and is a favored strategy among experienced craps players.
Place Bets and Buy Bets
After the come-out roll, you can place bets on specific numbers: 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, and 10. If your chosen number appears before a 7, you win. Each number has specific payouts; for example, 6 and 8 pay 7:6, while 4 and 10 pay 9:5. A variation is the Buy Bet, where you pay a small commission to get true odds payouts. These can be enticing for their potentially larger payouts, but it’s essential to manage your bankroll wisely to avoid quick losses. Place and Buy bets allow for higher customization in betting strategies, letting you focus on specific numbers.
Lay Bets: The Opposite Approach
Lay bets are the opposite of Buy Bets; you're essentially betting that a 7 will come before your chosen number. Like in Buy Bets, you pay a commission. However, the payouts are inversely structured. These bets appeal to players who want to take advantage of a "hot" table where 7s are rolling frequently. Lay bets offer another layer of strategic depth to craps, giving you options based on the current flow of the game. Understanding the dynamics of Lay bets can enhance your defensive play and potentially save you from losses during less favorable rolls.
Field Bets
Field bets are one-roll bets that offer immediate results. You win if the next roll is a 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12. Most casinos pay double for a roll of 2 and triple for a 12. Any other number results in a loss. Field bets are popular for those who seek quick outcomes or want to diversify their betting strategy. While often seen as a high-risk, high-reward option, they can be strategically placed to capitalize on streaks or specific game flows. Understanding Field bets is essential for anyone looking to explore all facets of craps betting.
Proposition Bets and High-Risk Options
Proposition bets are the high-risk, high-reward options on the craps table. These bets include wagers on specific outcomes like the next roll being a certain number or a combination of numbers (e.g., snake eyes or boxcars). While payouts can be substantial, the house edge is usually much higher. Proposition bets are often the realm of the seasoned player looking for a significant payoff or someone wanting to add excitement to their game. Although not recommended for beginners, understanding these bets can add another element of intrigue and potential reward to your craps strategy.
