Craps “Don’t Come” Bet Strategy
The “Don’t Come” bet in craps is a wager against the shooter, aiming to profit if they roll a 7 before establishing a point. While less common than its “Come” counterpart٫ it offers a slightly lower house edge and can be a strategic move for savvy players.
Understanding the “Don’t Come” Bet
The “Don’t Come” bet in craps is a wager that might seem counterintuitive at first, as it involves betting against the shooter and the majority of players at the table. However, understanding its mechanics and strategic implications can make it a valuable tool in your craps arsenal.
Here’s a breakdown of how the “Don’t Come” bet works⁚
- Point Established⁚ The “Don’t Come” bet is active only after the shooter has established a point on their come-out roll (the initial roll to determine the point);
- Placing the Bet⁚ To place a “Don’t Come” bet, you position your chips on the designated “Don’t Come” area on the craps table. This signifies your wager against the shooter making their point.
- Winning and Losing Rolls⁚
- 7 Rolled⁚ If the shooter rolls a 7 before rolling the point number, your “Don’t Come” bet wins, paying out even money (1⁚1).
- Point Rolled⁚ If the shooter rolls the point number before a 7, your “Don’t Come” bet loses.
- 2 or 3 Rolled⁚ If a 2 or 3 is rolled after you place your bet٫ you win even money (1⁚1).
- 12 Rolled⁚ A roll of 12 after placing your bet results in a push – neither a win nor a loss. You get your original bet back.
Essentially, the “Don’t Come” bet mirrors the “Don’t Pass” bet but is made after the point has been determined. It’s important to remember that this bet is about hoping for a 7 to be rolled before the shooter can repeat their point number٫ making it a bet against the prevailing momentum at the table.
Advantages of the “Don’t Come” Bet
While betting against the shooter might seem counterintuitive, the “Don’t Come” bet in craps offers certain advantages that can appeal to strategic players⁚
- Lower House Edge⁚ One of the most significant advantages of the “Don’t Come” bet is its slightly lower house edge compared to its “Come” counterpart. The house edge on a “Don’t Come” bet is 1.36%, while the “Come” bet has a house edge of 1.41%. This marginal difference means that, over time, you’re statistically likely to lose slightly less money with “Don’t Come” bets.
- Strategic Betting During Hot Streaks⁚ The “Don’t Come” bet can be particularly useful during those times when the shooter seems to be on a hot streak, consistently making their point. Placing a “Don’t Come” bet allows you to capitalize on the statistical likelihood of a 7 eventually being rolled, potentially earning you winnings while others are riding the wave of the shooter’s success.
- Controlling the Pace⁚ Unlike some other craps bets that are resolved quickly, the “Don’t Come” bet, once placed, can remain active for several rolls. This can provide a sense of sustained anticipation and control over your betting experience as you strategically assess the flow of the game.
However, it’s essential to remember that even with these advantages, the “Don’t Come” bet is still a gamble. There’s no foolproof strategy for guaranteeing wins in craps, and understanding the odds and potential risks is crucial for responsible gameplay.
Disadvantages of the “Don’t Come” Bet
While the “Don’t Come” bet in craps offers a slightly lower house edge and potential strategic advantages, it’s crucial to consider its drawbacks before incorporating it into your gameplay⁚
- Going Against the Grain⁚ In many craps games, especially at land-based casinos, betting against the shooter with a “Don’t Come” wager can be perceived as bad etiquette. Craps often fosters a sense of camaraderie among players, and betting against the table’s momentum might not be well-received by fellow gamblers.
- Potential for Confusion⁚ The “Don’t Come” bet, with its reverse mechanics compared to the more common “Come” bet, can be confusing for beginners. Understanding when you win or lose, especially when points are established and the puck moves around the layout, requires a firm grasp of the rules.
- Limited Winning Opportunities⁚ Since the “Don’t Come” bet relies on a 7 being rolled before a specific point, your winning opportunities are inherently limited by the odds. While the 7 is the most likely number to be rolled in craps, there’s always a chance the shooter will establish their point before the 7 appears.
By carefully weighing these disadvantages against the potential advantages, players can make informed decisions about whether the “Don’t Come” bet aligns with their risk tolerance and overall craps strategy.
When to Use the “Don’t Come” Bet
While the “Don’t Come” bet might not be as popular as some other craps wagers, strategically timing its placement can potentially enhance your gameplay. Here are a few scenarios where considering a “Don’t Come” bet might be advantageous⁚
- Cold Streaks and Poor Shooters⁚ If you observe a shooter consistently failing to establish a point, rolling multiple 7-outs, placing a “Don’t Come” bet could capitalize on their misfortune. This strategy assumes the shooter’s bad luck will continue, increasing the likelihood of a 7 appearing before a point is made.
- Hedging Your Bets⁚ Some players utilize the “Don’t Come” bet as a hedge against their “Pass Line” or “Come” bets. This tactic allows them to potentially minimize losses or secure a small profit, regardless of whether the shooter establishes a point or sevens out.
- Late in the Game⁚ If a shooter has managed to establish multiple points and successfully avoid a 7 for an extended period, a “Don’t Come” bet might seem appealing. The reasoning behind this approach is that the odds of rolling a 7 eventually increase, potentially leading to a late-game win.
It’s essential to remember that craps is inherently a game of chance, and no strategy, including the “Don’t Come” bet, can guarantee consistent wins. Utilizing this bet effectively relies on observation, calculated risk-taking, and an understanding of the game’s inherent unpredictability.
Managing Your Bankroll With “Don’t Come” Bets
Effectively managing your bankroll is crucial for any craps betting strategy, and “Don’t Come” bets are no exception. While the allure of potentially capitalizing on a shooter’s misfortune might be tempting, responsible betting habits are paramount. Here’s how to incorporate “Don’t Come” wagers without jeopardizing your funds⁚
- Set a Budget⁚ Before engaging in any form of gambling, establish a clear budget specifically allocated for craps. Determine the amount you’re comfortable potentially losing and strictly adhere to this limit, regardless of wins or losses during your session.
- Moderate Your Bets⁚ Avoid placing large “Don’t Come” bets, especially if you’re new to this wager. Start with smaller amounts to get a feel for the betting dynamics and gradually increase your stake as you gain experience and confidence.
- Avoid Chasing Losses⁚ It’s crucial to avoid the common pitfall of chasing losses with larger “Don’t Come” bets. If you experience a series of losses, resist the urge to recoup your funds quickly with riskier wagers. Stick to your predetermined budget and avoid emotional betting decisions.
- Know When to Walk Away⁚ Whether you’re on a winning or losing streak, knowing when to walk away from the craps table is essential for responsible bankroll management. Set win limits and loss limits for each session, and once you’ve reached either threshold, cash out and enjoy your winnings or cut your losses.
Remember, responsible gambling prioritizes entertainment and enjoyment. Implementing these bankroll management strategies ensures a more sustainable and enjoyable craps experience, even when incorporating the less conventional “Don’t Come” bet.