Last updated on March 11th, 2025 at 01:48 pm
Nothing matches the buzz of craps—the lively crowd, the quick calls, and the electric anticipation of the dice landing just right. While chance plays a big role, mastering the game and honing your skills can make every roll more rewarding. Do you need a craps betting guide to help you in your quest?
This craps strategy guide has it all—foundational craps tips and advanced tactics—to help you approach the table with confidence and know how to win at craps.
Understanding the Basics of Craps
It all begins with the “come-out roll,” where the shooter aims to hit a winning 7 or 11—or steers clear of a quick loss with a 2, 3, or 12. If the roll lands somewhere else, the game moves into the next phase, where a “point” is set.
Let’s say the shooter rolls a 5—that’s now the point, and their mission is to hit another 5 before a dreaded 7 shows up. The craps table is a hub of energy, where shared anticipation builds around each roll.
Though the game has its own lingo, picking up the key phrases will help you follow the action with ease. A couple to start with:
- Pass line bet predicts that the shooter will win by rolling a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll or by hitting the point before a 7;
- Don’t pass bet is against the shooter, predicting they will roll a 7 before hitting the point;
- Come bet is like a pass line bet but placed once the point is established. This wager applies to the next roll;
- Odds bet is an additional wager added to a pass or don’t pass bet, offering a payout based on true odds with no house edge.
The main sections of the craps table layout include:
- Pass line and don’t pass line: These are the bread-and-butter betting areas, representing the most popular wagers;
- Come and don’t come areas: Located next to the pass line, these allow for bets during ongoing rolls;
- Field bets: These are one-roll bets on specific numbers with quick payouts;
- Place bets: Situated near the center, these allow players to bet on specific numbers like 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10.
Popular Craps Strategies
Pass Line Bet Strategy
Starting out with craps? Want to know the best craps strategies? The pass line bet has your back. It’s easy to grasp, carries a tiny 1.41% house edge, and gets you rooting for the shooter alongside the rest of the table. A $10 wager here can turn into consistent wins when the craps odds and luck are on your side.
Don’t Pass Bet Strategy
For a little drama at the table, try the don’t pass bet. It goes against the grain, letting you bet on the shooter missing the mark. And with a low 1.36% house edge, it’s a sharp pick for gamblers who like to keep things interesting. While it might feel less social, it’s an effective way to play defensively, especially if you notice shooters struggling to make their points.
Odds Bet
Adding an odds bet to your pass or don’t pass wager takes the house edge out of the equation entirely. Say the point is 10—you could bet $10 on the pass line and throw in $20 in odds. If the shooter nails a 10 before a 7, you’re looking at a sweet 2:1 payout on the odds portion.
Advanced Craps Strategies
Come and Don’t Come Bets
Think of come and don’t come bets as the pass line’s dynamic cousins—they’re only placed after the point is locked in. Let’s say the point is 6. By placing a come bet, you’re predicting that the next roll will set a new number, like 9.
Place Bets
If you’re into targeting specific numbers, place bets let you do just that—choose from 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10. Numbers like 6 and 8 are especially popular for their slim 1.52% house edge. A $12 bet on 6 could turn into $14 if it’s rolled before a 7 shows up.
Field Bet Strategy
Field bets are all about chasing big wins with a single roll. These high-risk wagers cover numbers like 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, and 12, with some (like 2 and 12) offering double or even triple payouts. Although the house edge is on the higher side, field bets bring plenty of excitement to the table.
Hedge Betting
With hedge betting, you can play it safer by adding an insurance layer to your main bets. For example, pair your pass line wager with a small bet on 2 or 12 to cover potential bad rolls. While this keeps big losses at bay, it also means your wins won’t be as juicy.
Managing Your Bankroll
Setting Limits
Every successful craps player knows the importance of setting limits. Decide on your maximum loss and profit thresholds before starting. For example, if you bring $200 to the table, commit to walking away if you lose it or double it.
Bet Sizing
Start slow and steady by betting $5 to $10 per roll. It’s a smart approach to help you manage your bankroll while staying in the action for a longer stretch.
Avoiding Risky Bets
Avoid high-house edge bets like “Big 6” and “Big 8,” which may seem tempting but offer significantly worse odds than placing bets directly on 6 or 8. Stick to smarter bets to maximize your longevity.
Common Craps Myths and Mistakes
The Gambler’s Fallacy
Believing that past rolls influence future outcomes is a classic error. If the last five rolls didn’t include a 7, it doesn’t mean a 7 is “due.” Dice rolls are independent events, and understanding this can save you from unnecessary losses.
Betting on Every Roll
With its rapid action, craps often tempts players to wager on every roll. But taking on too many bets can drain your bankroll. Instead, prioritize focused bets with favorable odds to keep things sustainable.
Chasing Losses
Losing streaks happen, and chasing losses by increasing your bets often leads to more trouble. Discipline is key; know when to step away and live to play another day.
Tips for Success in Craps
Start with Simple Bets
Begin with straightforward bets like the pass line. These bets let you get a feel for the game without overwhelming you with complexity.
Focus on Low-House Edge Bets
Prioritize bets like odds, place bets on 6 or 8, and the pass line. These options are your best shot at steady returns over time.
Practice Makes Perfect
Before hitting a live casino, practice with free online craps games. These simulations can help you understand the rules, test your craps winning strategies, and build confidence.
Conclusion
With its thrilling mix of chance and strategy, craps is a game that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Knowing the rules and playing with purpose can set you up for big moments at the table.
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Craps Strategy FAQs
What is the best strategy for craps?
Stick to low-house edge bets like the pass line, odds, and place bets on 6 or 8.
Is the pass line bet the safest bet in craps?
Yes, it’s one of the safest bets, offering a low house edge of 1.41%.
Can I use betting systems like Martingale in craps?
You can, but craps betting systems can be risky. The Martingale system requires doubling your bets after losses, which can quickly exhaust your bankroll.
How do odds bets reduce the house edge?
Odds bets are paid at true odds, eliminating the house edge on this portion of your wager.
What are common mistakes to avoid in craps?
Avoid over-betting, chasing losses, and falling for myths like the gambler’s fallacy.