Craps is one of the most exciting casino games, offering fast-paced action and multiple betting options. Unlike games like blackjack, where strategy is more structured, craps allows for different craps betting strategies that can influence the house edge. The game revolves around the shooter rolling the dice, determining the outcome of each round. Understanding the core bets, such as the pass line bet, come bet, and odds bet, is essential before exploring advanced strategies.
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The Best Craps Strategy for Beginner Craps Players
For new players, the pass line bet is the safest choice when they play on the craps table, particularly on the first roll. It has one of the best house edges, typically around 1.41%, which can give substantial winnings. This basic bet is placed before the come out roll, and if the shooter rolls a 7 or 11, you win immediately. If they roll a 2, 3, or 12, you lose the bet. Any other number becomes the point, and the goal is to roll that number again on the table before hitting a 7.
Maximizing Winnings with Best Odds Bets
One of the smartest moves in craps is to take odds bets after placing a pass line or come bet. Unlike other bets, odds bets have no house edge, meaning they offer the best odds for players. You can wager two or more, depending on the table minimum, and benefit from a payout that matches the dice probabilities. This is a key part of any winning strategy since it minimizes the casino’s advantage as you play.
What Is The Best Betting Strategy For Craps?
Experienced craps players often use a combination of bets to maximize their winnings. Some of the most effective betting strategies include:
The Iron Cross Strategy
This Iron Cross strategy covers almost all numbers except 7 by combining place bets on 5, 6, and 8, along with a field bet. While it allows for frequent small wins, hitting a 7 means losing all bets.
The Come Bet Strategy
Similar to the pass line bet, but it is placed after the come out roll. This is a great way to spread your bets across multiple numbers while maintaining a low house edge.
The Two Units Approach
This involves increasing the bet in craps incrementally, helping with cash management and ensuring longer gameplay without depleting your money too quickly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid on the Craps Table
Many of those who play craps make errors that cost them money. Some of the usual mistakes include:
- Ignoring odds bets, which provide the best bet for reducing losses.
- Betting on high-risk options like the hardways or proposition bets, which carry a high house edge.
- Failing to manage their bankroll, leading to quick losses.
The Best Approach to Playing Craps

The key to success when you play craps is a balanced strategy that combines smart bets, proper money management, and understanding the game mechanics. The best craps strategy is often the simplest: focus on pass line and come bets, while avoiding high-risk wagers. By sticking to bets with the best house edge, you can increase your chances to win while keeping the game fun. Feel free to try out other strategies that will work best with your playing style.
FAQs
What is the 3 4 5 rule in craps?
The 3-4-5 rule in craps applies to odds bets placed behind the pass line bet. It determines the maximum odds a player can bet based on the point number:
- 3x odds for point 4 or 10
- 4x odds for point 5 or 9
- 5x odds for point 6 or 8
This rule simplifies payouts while maximizing true odds, making it a strong craps strategy for reducing the casino’s house edge.
What is the 6 7 8 craps strategy?
The 6-7-8 craps strategy is a structured betting method focusing on place bets. Players place bets on 6 and 8, which have a high probability of hitting, and also bet the Don’t Pass Line to cover potential losses when the shooter rolls a 7. This strategy balances frequent wins from 6 and 8 while leveraging the house’s payout on a 7-out. It’s considered the best strategy for managing risk while keeping the game profitable over time in a casino setting.
What is the 5 6 8 field strategy in craps?
The 5-6-8 Field Strategy in craps combines pass bet wagers with field bets to maximize frequent wins. Players play by placing bets on 5, 6, and 8, which have a lower house edge, while also using the field bet to cover other numbers. Since 6 and 8 hit often, this strategy balances steady winnings with extra payouts from the field.
When the shooter rolls, if 5, 6, or 8 hits, you win a standard payout. If a field number lands, you win that bet too. However, if the outcome is a 7, you lose all bets. Many casino players mix this approach with a pass line bet and pass bet progression to stretch their bankroll. While this strategy helps manage risk, smart gambling also requires discipline at the table to avoid unnecessary losses.
To further optimize results, other players might adjust their table position and adapt as the roll sequence changes.
