Craps is a popular casino game that can be intimidating for beginners. The numerous betting options and complex rules can make it difficult to know where to start. However, by understanding the basics of craps bets, you can increase your chances of winning and enjoy the game even more.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the fundamentals of craps bets, covering both basic and advanced wagers. Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or just starting out, this article will provide you with the knowledge to make informed decisions at the craps table.
Understanding Craps Bets
Before diving into the specifics of craps bets, it’s essential to understand the game itself. Craps is a dice game played with two six-sided dice. The objective is to predict the outcome of the roll, which can be either in favor of the player (pass line) or against them (don’t pass).
Basic Craps Bets
The following are some basic craps bets that every beginner should know:
Pass Line Bet
- Odds: 1:2
- Payout: Even money (1:1)
- Description: The pass line bet is the most common bet in craps. It’s a simple wager on the outcome of the roll, where you predict that the shooter will win.
- Strategy: This bet has relatively low odds and a high payout, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
Don’t Pass Bet
- Odds: 1:2
- Payout: Even money (1:1)
- Description: The don’t pass bet is the opposite of the pass line bet. You’re wagering that the shooter will lose.
- Strategy: This bet has slightly higher odds than the pass line, making it a good option for those who want to hedge their bets.
Come Bet
- Odds: 1:2
- Payout: Even money (1:1)
- Description: The come bet is similar to the pass line bet but can be placed at any time after the point has been established.
- Strategy: This bet offers a slightly lower payout than the pass line, but it’s still an excellent choice for beginners.
Don’t Come Bet
- Odds: 1:2
- Payout: Even money (1:1)
- Description: The don’t come bet is similar to the don’t pass bet but can be placed at any time after the point has been established.
- Strategy: This bet offers slightly higher odds than the don’t pass, making it a good option for those who want to hedge their bets.
Odds Bet
- Odds: Varies (depending on the outcome)
- Payout: Varies (depending on the outcome)
- Description: The odds bet is an additional wager that can be placed in conjunction with a pass line or don’t pass bet. It’s a true odds bet, meaning it has no house edge.
- Strategy: This bet offers some of the best odds in craps and should be taken advantage of whenever possible.
Advanced Craps Bets
Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can move on to more advanced craps bets. These wagers offer higher payouts but come with higher risks:
Place Bet
- Odds: Varies (depending on the number)
- Payout: Varies (depending on the number)
- Description: The place bet is a wager on a specific number being rolled before a seven is rolled.
- Strategy: This bet offers relatively high odds but can be expensive if you’re not careful.
Buy Bet
- Odds: 1:2
- Payout: Even money (1:1)
- Description: The buy bet is a wager that the shooter will roll a specific number before rolling a seven.
- Strategy: This bet offers higher odds than the place bet but comes with a commission fee.
Proposition Bet
- Odds: Varies (depending on the proposition)
- Payout: Varies (depending on the proposition)
- Description: Proposition bets are wagers on specific outcomes, such as the shooter rolling a certain number or combination of numbers.
- Strategy: These bets offer high payouts but come with high risks and should be used sparingly.
Tips for Making Smart Craps Bets
While craps can be an exciting game, it’s essential to make smart wagers to maximize your chances of winning. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Set a budget: Before you start playing, set a budget and stick to it.
- Understand the odds: Make sure you understand the odds of each bet before placing it.
- Manage your bankroll: Don’t chase losses or bet more than you can afford.
- Don’t get emotional: Craps is a game of chance, so don’t get too attached to winning or losing.
Conclusion
Craps bets 101 has provided an in-depth look at the various wagers available in craps. From basic bets like the pass line and don’t pass to advanced bets like proposition bets, there’s something for everyone. By understanding the basics of craps bets and following our tips for making smart wagers, you can increase your chances of winning and enjoy the game even more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bet in craps?
A: The pass line bet is considered one of the best bets in craps due to its relatively low odds and high payout.
Q: How do I manage my bankroll in craps?
A: Set a budget, understand the odds, and don’t chase losses or bet more than you can afford.
Q: What is the difference between a pass line bet and a come bet?
A: The main difference is that the pass line bet can only be placed before the point has been established, while the come bet can be placed at any time after the point has been established.
Q: Can I hedge my bets in craps?
A: Yes, you can hedge your bets by placing a don’t pass or don’t come bet opposite of your initial bet.
Additional Resources
By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a craps expert and making smart wagers at the table. Happy gaming!
