When it comes to playing craps, one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make is whether to bet on the Pass Line or the Don’t Pass Line. Both options have their own set of pros and cons, and understanding the differences between them can greatly impact your chances of winning.
The Pass Line Bet
The Pass Line is the most common and popular bet in craps. It is made before the come-out roll, and if the shooter rolls a 7 or an 11, the Pass Line bet wins. However, if the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12, the bet loses. If any other number is rolled (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10), that number becomes the “point,” and the Pass Line bet wins if the shooter rolls that point number again before rolling a 7.
One advantage of the Pass Line bet is that it has a relatively low house edge. The house edge on a Pass Line bet is around 1.41%, which means that for every $100 wagered, the average loss will be $1.41. This makes it a favorable bet for most players.
Another benefit of the Pass Line bet is its simplicity. It’s easy to understand and follow, making it a great option for beginners. The majority of players at a craps table will typically place Pass Line bets, creating a sense of camaraderie among those who are rooting for the shooter to succeed.
The Don’t Pass Line Bet
The Don’t Pass Line bet is essentially the opposite of the Pass Line bet. It is also made before the come-out roll, but in this case, the bet wins if the shooter rolls a 2 or a 3 and loses if they roll a 7 or an 11. Rolling a 12 results in a push, where the bet neither wins nor loses. If the shooter rolls any other number, that number becomes the point, and the Don’t Pass Line bet wins if a 7 is rolled before the point number is rolled again.
The Don’t Pass Line bet has a slightly lower house edge compared to the Pass Line bet, around 1.36%. This means that for every $100 wagered, the average loss will be $1.36. While the difference in house edge may seem minimal, it can still have a significant impact on long-term profitability.
One advantage of the Don’t Pass Line bet is that it allows you to bet against the shooter, which can be an appealing option for some players. However, it’s worth noting that betting against the shooter can sometimes be seen as bad etiquette at a craps table, as most players usually bet on the Pass Line.
Which Bet is Better?
Both the Pass Line and Don’t Pass Line bets have their own merits, and which one is better will depend on your personal playing style and preferences. The Pass Line bet is more popular, easier to understand, and generally accepted by the majority of craps players. It also has a slightly higher house edge but offers better camaraderie at the table.
On the other hand, the Don’t Pass Line bet has a slightly lower house edge and allows you to bet against the shooter, which may be advantageous for some players. However, betting against the shooter can sometimes attract negative attention from others at the table.
Ultimately, the decision between the Pass Line and Don’t Pass Line bets should be based on your own preferences and goals as a player. It’s important to remember that craps is a game of luck, and no betting strategy can guarantee consistent wins. It’s always recommended to set a budget, play responsibly, and have fun while playing.
