Craps can be an entertaining way to spend time at the casino. As you learn the basics, you may come across terms that may seem a bit unusual at first, such as the “Don’t Pass Bet.”
A key element of craps is understanding the difference between “pass” and “don’t pass” bets. Learning about these bets will help you feel more confident when you step up to the table.
In this blog post, we'll explore what a "don't pass" bet is in craps and how to incorporate it into your betting strategy for an enjoyable gaming experience.
Craps Don’t Pass Strategy Explained
When you place a Don’t Pass bet in craps, you’re effectively betting against the person rolling the dice, also known as the shooter. Instead of hoping the shooter hits a winning number, you’re hoping for the opposite outcome.
At the start of a round, the shooter rolls the dice. If they roll a 2 or 3, you win right away. If they roll a 7 or 11, you lose. Rolling a 12 is a draw, which means you neither win nor lose your bet.
If the shooter rolls any other number, that number becomes the “point.” Then, the goal of your Don’t Pass bet is for a 7 to appear before the shooter rolls the point number again. If a 7 comes first, you win; however, if the point repeats, you lose.
Some players prefer this strategy because the odds slightly favour Don’t Pass bets compared to Pass Line bets; however, keep in mind that outcomes are down to chance.
As always, it’s important to gamble responsibly. Make sure you set strict limits and know when to step away if the game isn’t going your way.
What Numbers Win On Don’t Pass?
In craps, when you place a Don't Pass Bet, you're essentially hoping for outcomes that favour the house slightly more. On the initial roll, also called the come-out roll, you win if the shooter rolls a 2 or a 3. Either of these results mean an immediate win for your Don't Pass Bet.
If a point number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) is rolled, the game continues. At this stage, you want a 7 to appear before the shooter rolls the point number again. If a 7 comes up first, you win your bet.
It’s important to remember that a roll of 12 on the come-out roll results in a push—meaning you neither win nor lose. This rule varies slightly with some online casinos licenced by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), so it’s always wise to check specific rules before playing.
What Is The Difference Between Don’t Come And Don’t Pass Craps?
Understanding different bet types in craps can improve your gameplay experience. The Don’t Pass Bet and the Don’t Come Bet are quite similar, but they are used at different times during the game.
The Don’t Pass Bet is placed at the start of a new round before the come-out roll, where you bet that the shooter will roll a 7 before hitting their point number again after it’s established.
On the other hand, the Don’t Come Bet is placed after the point has been set during any subsequent rolls in the same round. When you place a Don’t Come Bet, you're betting that a 7 will roll before the come number, which is the number rolled immediately after placing your bet.
Though both bets have similar goals, the timing is what sets them apart. The Don’t Pass Bet starts with a new shooter, while the Don’t Come Bet comes into play mid-round after a point is already set.
Should I Play Pass Or Don't Pass In Craps?
Deciding between a Pass Bet and a Don’t Pass Bet in craps often depends on your style of play and what you hope to achieve at the table.
The Pass Bet is the most popular choice among players and involves betting on the shooter to win. When the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll, you win. If a point is set, you need that number to roll again before a 7 shows up.
The Don’t Pass Bet, on the other hand, is more about betting against the shooter. Statistically, it slightly favours the house less than the Pass Bet, which is ideal if you prefer a strategic approach and are comfortable with betting against the majority.
There’s no wrong choice, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. You could even try both bets to see which one resonates with your style.
Always remember to gamble responsibly for an enjoyable gaming experience. Ensure your craps experience remains safe and entertaining by setting limits to your playing time, sticking to a strict budget within your means and making use of any responsible gambling tools available.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins, etc.) mentioned in relation to this game are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.