Craps, a lively dice game, blends chance with strategy, captivating players with its fast pace and social atmosphere. This guide offers a beginner’s
cheat sheet, detailing smart bets and those to avoid for confident gameplay. Understanding craps rules is key to enjoying this classic casino favorite.
What is Craps?
Craps is a thrilling dice game where players wager on the outcome of a roll, or a series of rolls, of a pair of dice. It’s a casino staple known for its energetic atmosphere and relatively simple core mechanics, despite appearing complex initially. The game revolves around the “shooter,” who rolls the dice, and other players placing bets based on the predicted results.
Key bets include the Pass Line, Don’t Pass Line, Come, and Don’t Come, each with unique payout structures. Players can also explore Place Bets, Field Bets, and Proposition Bets, offering varying levels of risk and reward. A craps payout cheat sheet is invaluable for understanding these intricacies. Mastering the rules of craps unlocks a world of strategic possibilities and exciting gameplay.
History of Craps
The origins of craps can be traced back to an 18th-century French game called “Hazard,” brought to New Orleans by Bernard Xavier Philippe de Marigny de Mandeville. He adapted the game, simplifying the rules and creating what became known as “crapaud,” French for toad, likely due to the players crouching around the table.
Over time, “crapaud” evolved into the modern craps we know today, spreading throughout the United States, particularly during the Gold Rush era. The game’s popularity surged, becoming a fixture in casinos. Understanding the historical context enriches the experience, even while navigating the current rules of craps. A craps cheat sheet won’t detail its past, but knowing it adds depth to the game’s allure.
Craps Terminology
Navigating craps requires understanding its unique language. The “Come Out Roll” initiates each round, aiming for a 7 or 11 to win instantly. Establishing a “Point” occurs when other numbers are rolled, requiring that number to be rolled again before a 7. A “Hardway” refers to rolling doubles (like 4-4) before a 7.
“Any 7” and “Any Craps” are one-roll bets, offering high payouts. The “Vigorish” (or “Vigor”) is the casino’s commission. A craps cheat sheet often lists these terms. Mastering this rules of craps vocabulary is crucial for confident play, allowing you to follow the action and make informed bets.
The Basic Gameplay of Craps
Craps begins with the Come Out Roll, establishing a Point if 2, 3, or 12 aren’t rolled. Players then bet on rolling the Point before a 7 appears.
The Come Out Roll
The Come Out Roll is the initial roll in a craps game, dictating the early flow of play. Players make their initial bets, primarily on the Pass Line or Don’t Pass Line, before the dice are tossed. A roll of 7 or 11 on the Come Out Roll results in an immediate win for Pass Line bettors and a loss for Don’t Pass bettors. Conversely, a roll of 2, 3, or 12 causes Pass Line bets to lose and Don’t Pass bets to win.
If the shooter rolls a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, that number becomes the “Point.” The game then transitions to the Point phase, where the objective shifts to rolling the established Point number before rolling a 7. Understanding the Come Out Roll is fundamental to grasping craps rules and making informed betting decisions.
Establishing the Point
Following the Come Out Roll, if a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10 is rolled, that number is “established” as the Point. This shifts the game’s focus; players now aim to roll the Point number again before a 7 appears. The dealer will visually mark the Point on the table, clarifying the objective for all players. Bets on the Pass Line remain active, awaiting the Point to be rolled.
During this phase, the shooter continues rolling until either the Point is repeated (resulting in a Pass Line win) or a 7 is rolled (resulting in a Pass Line loss). Understanding how the Point is established is crucial when learning craps rules, as it dictates the subsequent gameplay and betting strategies.
Rolling the Point
Once the Point is established, the shooter continues rolling the dice, attempting to match that number before rolling a 7. Each subsequent roll is now focused on achieving this goal. If the shooter successfully rolls the Point again, Pass Line bets win, and a new Come Out Roll begins. However, if a 7 is rolled before the Point, Pass Line bets lose, and the dice pass to the next shooter.
This phase is where strategic betting comes into play, with options like adding odds to Pass Line bets to increase potential payouts. Mastering the concept of “Rolling the Point” is fundamental to understanding craps rules and maximizing your chances of success.
Essential Craps Bets
Key bets like the Pass Line and Don’t Pass Line form the foundation of craps strategy, offering straightforward odds and a simple entry point for new players.
Pass Line Bet
The Pass Line bet is arguably the most fundamental wager in craps, attracting many new players due to its simplicity. Placed before the Come Out Roll, a win occurs if the initial roll is a 7 or 11. Conversely, a loss happens on rolls of 2, 3, or 12.
If a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10 is established as the “Point,” the shooter continues rolling until that Point is rolled again – resulting in a win for Pass Line bettors. However, rolling a 7 before the Point is re-established leads to a loss. This bet offers a relatively low house edge, making it a popular choice. It’s an even money wager, meaning you win what you bet.
Don’t Pass Line Bet
The Don’t Pass Line bet represents the opposite of the Pass Line, essentially betting against the shooter. It’s also placed before the Come Out Roll. A win occurs if the initial roll is a 2 or 3, while a loss happens on a 7 or 11. A roll of 12 results in a “push” – neither a win nor a loss, and your wager is returned.
If a Point is established (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10), the Don’t Pass bettor wins if a 7 is rolled before the Point is repeated. This bet generally offers a slightly lower house edge than the Pass Line, but some casinos may alter payouts on the 2 and 3, increasing the edge.
Come Bet
The Come bet functions much like the Pass Line bet, but it’s made after a Point has already been established. Players place a Come bet during any roll following the Come Out Roll. The next roll then becomes the “Come Out Roll” specifically for that bet.
If that subsequent roll is a 7 or 11, the Come bet wins. A roll of 2, 3, or 12 results in a loss. Any other number becomes the “Come Point.” The bet then wins if the Come Point is rolled again before a 7 appears. Odds can be added to a Come bet, similar to the Pass Line, increasing potential payouts and lowering the house edge.
Don’t Come Bet
The Don’t Come bet is essentially the opposite of the Come bet, offering a chance to win when the shooter fails to establish or hit their point. Like the Come bet, it’s placed after a Point has been established. The subsequent roll then acts as the “Come Out Roll” for this specific wager.
A roll of 2 or 3 on the Don’t Come bet results in an immediate win, while a 7 or 11 causes a loss. A roll of 12 is a push (tie). Any other number becomes the “Don’t Come Point,” and the bet wins if a 7 is rolled before that point. Odds can also be taken on Don’t Come bets, mirroring the Pass/Come structure.
Advanced Craps Bets
Beyond basic wagers, craps offers complex bets like Place, Field, Proposition (one-roll), and Hardways, each with unique payouts and varying house edges.
Place Bets
Place Bets allow players to wager on specific numbers (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) being rolled before a 7. These bets offer true odds payouts, though often with limitations on maximum wagers. Unlike the Pass Line, Place Bets can be made at any time, even during the Come Out roll, and can be removed or changed before the point is established.
Payouts vary depending on the number bet on; for example, placing the 6 or 8 typically pays 7 to 6, while placing the 5 or 9 pays 7 to 5. The 4 and 10 generally offer a 9 to 5 payout. It’s crucial to understand that if the point is rolled before the placed number, the bet loses. Players should consult a craps cheat sheet for specific payout details and optimal betting strategies.
Field Bet
The Field Bet is a one-roll proposition, offering a quick payout on the next roll of the dice. Players wager that the next roll will be 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12. Standard payouts are even money on 3, 4, 9, 10, and 11, while 2 and 12 typically pay 2 to 1, though some casinos offer 3 to 1 on 12. This bet is attractive for its simplicity and immediate result, but carries a higher house edge compared to Pass Line or Come bets.
Consulting a craps rules guide or cheat sheet is recommended to understand the specific payouts offered at your casino. The Field Bet is often considered a less strategic option, appealing to those seeking quick action and potential for a fast win, despite the increased risk.
Proposition Bets (One-Roll Bets)
Proposition Bets, also known as one-roll bets, are wagers made on specific outcomes occurring on the very next roll of the dice. These include bets like “Any 7” (pays 5 to 1), “Any Craps” (pays 8 to 1 – 2, 3, or 12), and “Eleven” (pays 15 to 1). More extreme options like betting on a specific number (2 or 12) offer a hefty payout of 30 to 1.
While tempting due to the large potential rewards, these bets carry a significantly higher house edge than other craps wagers. A craps rules PDF will clearly demonstrate this. Experienced players generally advise against frequent proposition betting, viewing them as entertainment wagers rather than strategic plays.
Hardways Bets
Hardways Bets involve wagering that a specific number (4, 6, 8, or 10) will be rolled as a pair before a 7 is rolled. For example, a Hard 6 bet wins if a 3 and a 3 are rolled before a 7 appears. These bets offer payouts of 9 to 1. A craps rules PDF will detail the specific combinations needed for each hardway.
Crucially, Hardways are typically “off” (inactive) on the Come Out Roll unless a player specifically requests they be “on”. Understanding this activation is vital. While offering decent odds compared to proposition bets, they still carry a higher house edge than Pass/Don’t Pass lines, so strategic placement is key.
Craps Payouts
Understanding craps payouts is crucial for informed betting; a craps rules PDF clarifies these. Payouts vary significantly based on the bet type, ranging from even money to 30 to 1.
Payout for Pass Line/Come Bets
The Pass Line and Come bets are foundational in craps, offering a straightforward payout structure. A win on either bet after the point is established yields even money – a 1:1 payout. This means a $10 bet returns $10 profit, plus your original stake. If the Come Out roll results in a 7 or 11, these bets instantly win at even odds.
However, rolling a 2, 3, or 12 on the Come Out roll results in a loss for Pass Line bets. Come bets function similarly, but are placed after a point has been established. A detailed craps rules PDF will visually demonstrate these scenarios. Understanding these payouts is essential for managing risk and maximizing potential returns when playing craps.
Payout for Don’t Pass/Don’t Come Bets
Don’t Pass and Don’t Come bets offer payouts differing from their Pass/Come counterparts, appealing to players predicting the shooter will lose. A win on Don’t Pass occurs with a 2 or 3 on the Come Out roll, yielding even money (1:1). A 12 rolled on the Come Out is often a push, returning the original wager, though some casinos may treat it as a loss. Rolling a 7 or 11 results in an immediate loss for Don’t Pass bets.
Don’t Come bets mirror this structure, placed after a point is established. A comprehensive craps rules PDF will clarify these nuances. While offering potentially higher payouts, these bets attract less table camaraderie. Careful study of payout structures is vital for informed betting.
Payout for Place Bets
Place Bets involve wagering on specific numbers (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) being rolled before a 7. Payouts vary depending on the number chosen, reflecting their probability. A Place Bet on 4 or 10 typically pays 9:5. Bets on 5 or 9 offer a 7:5 payout, while 6 and 8 provide a 7:6 return. These payouts are crucial to understand when consulting a craps rules PDF.
It’s important to note that Place Bets can be removed at any time, offering flexibility. Understanding these odds and payouts is key to strategic betting. Always confirm the specific payout structure at your casino, as slight variations can occur.
Payout for Field Bet
The Field Bet is a one-roll proposition, offering a quick payout if the next roll is 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12. Standard payouts for 2 and 12 are typically 30:1, making them attractive but low-probability options. A roll of 3, 4, 9, 10, or 11 usually pays even money (1:1). Some casinos offer a slightly reduced payout for 2 and 12, like 2:1, so checking the specific craps rules PDF is vital.
The Field Bet’s simplicity makes it appealing, but its higher house edge compared to Pass Line or Come bets should be considered. It’s a quick-result wager, but not necessarily a strategically sound one for consistent wins.
Understanding Odds in Craps
Analyzing craps odds, including house edge and vigorish, is crucial for informed betting. Reviewing a rules PDF clarifies payout structures and probability, enhancing strategic play.
House Edge Explained
The house edge in craps represents the casino’s average profit from each bet placed. It’s expressed as a percentage and signifies the inherent disadvantage players face over the long run. Different bets carry varying house edges; understanding these differences is paramount for strategic gameplay. For instance, the Pass Line bet boasts a relatively low house edge of 1.41%, making it a favorable option.
Conversely, proposition bets, like betting on a specific number appearing on the next roll, often have significantly higher house edges, sometimes exceeding 10%. A comprehensive rules PDF will detail the house edge associated with each wager. Recognizing this concept allows players to make informed decisions, minimizing losses and maximizing potential returns. Essentially, the lower the house edge, the better the odds for the player.
True Odds vs. Payout Odds
In craps, true odds represent the actual mathematical probability of a specific outcome occurring. For example, the true odds of rolling a 7 are 6 to 5. However, casinos don’t pay out winnings based on true odds; instead, they offer payout odds, which are lower. This difference is where the house edge originates. A detailed rules PDF will often illustrate these discrepancies.
Payout odds are adjusted to ensure the casino profits over time. While a 7 has true odds of 6:5, the payout is typically even money (1:1). Understanding this distinction is crucial. Bets with payout odds closer to true odds, like the Pass Line with odds bets, offer players a better return. Players should consult comprehensive resources to grasp these nuances and make informed wagering decisions.
Vigorish (Vigor) in Craps
Vigorish, often called “vigor” or “juice,” is the commission charged by the casino on losing bets. It’s the fundamental way casinos guarantee a profit. In craps, vigor isn’t a flat percentage like in sports betting; it’s built into the payout odds of each bet. A comprehensive rules PDF will detail how vigor impacts each wager.
For instance, the Pass Line bet pays even money, but the true odds are slightly better, meaning the casino takes a percentage. Facilities must disclose their vigorish procedures in their Rules Submission, as per regulations. Understanding vigor is vital for calculating the true cost of each bet and assessing the overall house edge. Ignoring vigor leads to inaccurate profitability assessments.
Craps Strategy
Effective craps strategy centers on bankroll management and smart bet selection, avoiding high-house-edge wagers. A rules PDF aids informed decision-making for optimal play.
Bankroll Management
Successful craps play hinges on disciplined bankroll management. Before approaching the table, determine a session budget you’re comfortable losing – consider it the cost of entertainment. Divide this budget into smaller betting units; a common approach is 50-100 units.
Avoid chasing losses, as this often leads to reckless betting and exceeding your predetermined limits. Stick to your unit size, even during winning streaks. A solid understanding of the craps rules, perhaps gleaned from a helpful PDF, won’t matter if you’re betting beyond your means.
Remember, craps is a game of chance, and losses are inevitable. Proper bankroll management ensures you can withstand losing streaks and continue enjoying the game responsibly. Knowing when to walk away, both in victory and defeat, is paramount.
Smart Bet Selection
Navigating craps bets requires understanding their associated odds and house edges. The Pass Line and Come bets offer relatively low house edges, making them favorable choices for beginners. Familiarize yourself with the craps rules – a readily available PDF can be invaluable – to understand how these bets function during the Come Out roll and point establishment.
Avoid high-paying proposition bets like Any 7 or Any Craps, as they carry significantly higher house edges. While tempting, these bets drastically reduce your long-term winning potential. Prioritize bets with better odds, and consider adding or laying odds to further reduce the house edge on your Pass Line or Come bets.
Strategic bet selection, combined with a solid grasp of the game’s fundamentals, is crucial for maximizing your chances of success at the craps table.
Avoiding Proposition Bets
Proposition bets, often called “one-roll bets,” appear enticing with their large payouts – like 30 to 1 for a 2 or 12. However, consulting a craps rules PDF will quickly reveal their substantial house edges. Bets like Any 7 (paying 5 to 1) and Any Craps (8 to 1) significantly favor the casino, diminishing your long-term profitability.
These bets offer a fleeting thrill but statistically represent poor value. While a lucky roll might yield a substantial win, consistently losing to the high house edge is far more probable. Smart craps players understand that disciplined bet selection is paramount.
Focus on bets with lower house edges, such as the Pass Line and Come bets, and avoid the temptation of these high-risk, low-reward propositions.
Craps Cheat Sheet & Quick Reference
This craps cheat sheet, based on rules found in a craps rules PDF, simplifies gameplay with common combinations, quick payouts, and essential rules for easy reference.
Common Craps Combinations
Understanding dice combinations is fundamental to craps. The most frequent rolls significantly impact betting strategies. A roll of 7 is statistically the most common outcome, appearing with six different combinations (1/6, 2/5, 3/4, 4/3, 5/2, 6/1). Following closely is the roll of 6, achievable in five ways (1/5, 2/4, 3/3, 4/2, 5/1).
The number 8 also appears frequently, with five possible combinations. Rolls of 5 and 9 each have four combinations, while 4 and 10 have three. Less common are 2 and 12, each appearing with only one combination. These probabilities, detailed in many craps rules PDFs, influence the payouts associated with various bets. Knowing these combinations helps players assess risk and reward effectively at the craps table.
Quick Payout Guide
This guide simplifies craps payouts for quick reference. Pass Line/Come bets pay 1:1 (even money). Don’t Pass/Don’t Come bets also pay 1:1, but with a slight house edge. Place bets vary: placing 6 or 8 pays 7:6, while placing 5 or 9 pays 7:5. The Field bet offers even money on 5, 6, 8, 9, and 10, with 2 and 12 paying 2:1 (or sometimes 3:1, check house rules).
Proposition bets, detailed in craps rules PDFs, have higher payouts but lower probabilities. Any 7 pays 5:1, Any Craps (2, 3, or 12) pays 8:1, and Eleven pays 15:1. A roll of 2 or 12 can pay 30:1. Remember to always confirm specific payouts with the casino, as variations exist.
Important Rules Summary
Craps begins with the “Come Out Roll.” A 7 or 11 wins immediately; 2, 3, or 12 loses (craps out). Any other number establishes the “Point.” Subsequent rolls must match the Point before rolling a 7 to win. A 7 before the Point results in a loss. Hardways (doubles) can be bet on, winning if rolled before a 7 or the “easy” way to make the number.
Reviewing a craps rules PDF reveals vigorish (the house commission) applies to certain bets. Proposition bets are one-roll wagers with high payouts but significant house edges. Always understand the specific casino’s rules regarding “Odds” bets, which supplement Pass/Come bets.