Understanding the Basics of Craps
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Why Bets Matter in Craps
The type of bet you place in craps significantly affects your odds of winning. Some bets come with higher risks but offer larger payouts, while others are safer with lower payouts. For new players or those looking to minimize losses, understanding which bets are considered the safest is crucial.What is the Safest Bet on Craps?
The safest bet on craps is widely considered to be the Pass Line bet. This bet is made before the shooter rolls the dice and has a relatively low house edge, making it an appealing option for both beginners and experienced players.How the Pass Line Bet Works
- When you place a Pass Line bet, you are betting that the shooter will roll a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll (the initial roll). If this happens, you win even money (1:1).
- If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12, you lose your bet.
- Any other number rolled (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) becomes the “point.” The shooter must roll this point number again before rolling a 7 to win.
Other Safe Bets to Consider
While the Pass Line bet is the safest, there are other bets that also offer good odds and lower risks. Here are a few additional options:Come Bet
Similar to the Pass Line bet, the Come bet is made after the point has been established. It works as follows:- If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, you win.
- If a 2, 3, or 12 is rolled, you lose.
- If any other number is rolled, it becomes your “come point.” You win if that number is rolled again before a 7.
Don't Pass Bet
The Don't Pass bet is essentially the opposite of the Pass Line bet. Here’s how it works:- You win if the shooter rolls a 2 or 3 on the come-out roll.
- If a 7 or 11 is rolled, you lose.
- If a 12 is rolled, it’s a push (you neither win nor lose).
- If any other number is rolled, that becomes the “point.” You win if a 7 is rolled before that point number.
Maximizing Your Bets: Odds Bets
Once a point is established, you can make an Odds bet. This is an additional bet made in conjunction with your Pass Line, Come, or Don't Pass bets, and it offers true odds with no house edge. Here’s what you need to know:- After the point is established, you can place an Odds bet based on your Pass Line or Come bets.
- This bet pays out at true odds: 2:1 for points of 4 and 10, 3:2 for points of 5 and 9, and 6:5 for points of 6 and 8.
- Because Odds bets have no house edge, they can significantly improve your overall winning potential.