The pass line bet is the foundational wager in the game of craps, arguably the most exciting and social game found in casinos. It’s the first bet most players learn and for good reason: it offers a relatively simple concept, decent odds, and a chance to be immediately involved in the action. Its popularity stems from its accessibility and the camaraderie it fosters around the craps table.
This article will delve into the specifics of the pass line bet, explaining how it works, why it’s so popular, and providing a comprehensive understanding of its role in the dynamic world of craps. We’ll cover everything from the basic mechanics to the nuances of its associated odds and strategies.
| Topic | Description | Payout |
|---|---|---|
| Pass Line Bet Basics | A bet made before the come-out roll, wagering that the shooter will roll a 7 or 11 (win) or avoid rolling a 2, 3, or 12 (loss). | 1:1 (even money) |
| The Come-Out Roll | The first roll of the dice in a new round of craps. Determines the point number if a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10 is rolled. | N/A |
| The Point | If the come-out roll is 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, that number becomes the "point." The shooter must roll the point again before rolling a 7 to win. | N/A |
| Winning the Pass Line | Winning occurs if the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll, or if the shooter rolls the point number before rolling a 7. | 1:1 (even money) |
| Losing the Pass Line | Losing occurs if the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12 on the come-out roll (referred to as "craps"), or if the shooter rolls a 7 before rolling the point. | Loss of initial bet |
| House Edge | The statistical advantage the casino has over the player on the pass line bet. | Approximately 1.41% |
| Odds Bet (Behind the Pass Line) | An additional bet placed after a point has been established, wagering that the shooter will make the point before rolling a 7. | Varies (See Detailed Explanation) |
| Don’t Pass Line Bet | The opposite of the pass line bet; wagering that the shooter will not make the point. | 1:1 (even money) |
| The Bar 12 | On a don’t pass line bet, a roll of 12 on the come-out roll is a push or "bar," meaning the bet neither wins nor loses. This is to reduce the player’s advantage. | N/A (Bet is returned) |
| Pass Line Strategy | Strategies involve combining the pass line bet with odds bets to reduce the overall house edge and increase potential winnings. | Varies depending on the strategy used |
Detailed Explanations
Pass Line Bet Basics: The pass line bet is the cornerstone of craps. It’s placed before the come-out roll and essentially bets on the shooter’s ability to establish and make a point. If the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll, you win. If they roll a 2, 3, or 12, you lose. Any other number becomes the point.
The Come-Out Roll: This is the initial roll of the dice that starts a new round. The outcome of the come-out roll directly impacts the pass line bet. If the roll results in a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, then a point is established and the game progresses to the next phase.
The Point: The point is the number rolled on the come-out roll, if it’s a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10. Once a point is established, the shooter continues to roll the dice, attempting to roll the point number again before rolling a 7. The point remains the same until it’s either made (the point number is rolled) or broken (a 7 is rolled).
Winning the Pass Line: Winning on the pass line is straightforward. You win immediately if a 7 or 11 is rolled on the come-out roll. If a point is established, you win if the shooter rolls that point number again before rolling a 7. This is the primary goal for those betting on the pass line.
Losing the Pass Line: Losing the pass line bet also follows simple rules. You lose immediately if a 2, 3, or 12 is rolled on the come-out roll. If a point is established, you lose if the shooter rolls a 7 before rolling the point number again. This is often referred to as "sevening out."
House Edge: The house edge on the pass line bet is approximately 1.41%. This means that, over the long run, the casino expects to win about 1.41 cents for every dollar wagered on the pass line. While this might seem small, it’s important to understand that the house always has an edge in casino games. This makes the Pass Line bet one of the better bets in the casino.
Odds Bet (Behind the Pass Line): The odds bet is an additional wager you can make after a point has been established. It’s placed "behind the pass line" and bets that the shooter will make the point before rolling a 7. The key advantage of the odds bet is that it has no house edge. The payout varies depending on the point:
- Point of 4 or 10: Pays 2 to 1
- Point of 5 or 9: Pays 3 to 2
- Point of 6 or 8: Pays 6 to 5
The amount you’re allowed to bet on the odds bet is usually expressed as a multiple of your pass line bet (e.g., "3x odds"). Taking the odds bet significantly reduces the overall house edge of your pass line strategy.
Don’t Pass Line Bet: The don’t pass line bet is the direct opposite of the pass line bet. You’re betting that the shooter will not make their point. You win if the shooter rolls a 2 or 3 on the come-out roll, and you lose if they roll a 7 or 11. If a point is established, you win if the shooter rolls a 7 before rolling the point.
The Bar 12: To balance the odds on the don’t pass line bet, casinos typically "bar" the 12. This means that if a 12 is rolled on the come-out roll, the don’t pass bet neither wins nor loses; it’s a push, and your bet is returned. This slight adjustment gives the house an edge on the don’t pass bet.
Pass Line Strategy: A common and effective craps strategy involves combining the pass line bet with the odds bet. By placing the maximum allowed odds bet behind the pass line, you significantly reduce the overall house edge. For example, if the casino allows 3x odds, the combined house edge on the pass line bet and the 3x odds bet is reduced to around 0.37%. This makes it one of the most favorable bets in the casino. Other strategies involve combining the pass line with come bets and place bets, but these require a more in-depth understanding of the game.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the pass line bet in craps?
It’s a bet made before the come-out roll that the shooter will roll a 7 or 11 (win) or avoid rolling a 2, 3, or 12 (loss). If a point is established, you win if the shooter rolls the point before a 7.
How does the come-out roll affect the pass line bet?
The come-out roll determines if you win immediately (7 or 11), lose immediately (2, 3, or 12), or if a point is established.
What is the payout for a pass line bet?
The payout for a winning pass line bet is 1:1, also known as even money.
What is the house edge on the pass line bet?
The house edge on the pass line bet is approximately 1.41%.
What is an odds bet and how does it relate to the pass line bet?
An odds bet is an additional bet you can place behind the pass line after a point is established, wagering that the shooter will make the point before rolling a 7. It has no house edge.
Why is the pass line bet so popular?
Its popularity stems from its simplicity, relatively low house edge, and the excitement it generates at the craps table. It’s a good starting point for new players.
Is the don’t pass line bet a better option than the pass line bet?
The don’t pass line bet has a slightly lower house edge (around 1.36% with the bar 12 rule) but many players prefer to bet with the shooter and enjoy the communal aspect of the pass line. Also, betting the don’t pass line is considered bad etiquette by some craps players.
What happens if a 7 is rolled after a point is established?
If a 7 is rolled before the point is made, you lose your pass line bet. This is known as "sevening out."
Can I remove my pass line bet after a point is established?
While technically possible in most casinos, it’s generally not recommended, as you’re giving up your position on the pass line for no strategic advantage.
What is the best strategy for playing the pass line bet?
The best strategy is to combine the pass line bet with the maximum allowable odds bet to minimize the overall house edge.
Conclusion
The pass line bet is the fundamental building block of craps, offering a straightforward entry point into the game’s thrilling dynamics. Its popularity is well-deserved, providing a balance of simplicity, reasonable odds, and active participation in the action. By understanding the mechanics of the pass line bet and the strategic advantage of adding the odds bet, players can enhance their craps experience and potentially improve their chances of winning. For those new to the game, mastering the pass line is the essential first step to enjoying all that craps has to offer.