Big 8

The Big 8 is one of the most straightforward bets in craps, offering simplicity for beginners and those who enjoy easy-to-understand wagers. In this bet, you are wagering that an 8 will be rolled before a 7. While it may seem like an attractive option, the Big 8 bet has a higher house edge than some other bets that also focus on the number 8.

How the Big 8 Bet Works

To place a Big 8 bet, you put your chips in the designated area of the craps table, typically marked by a large "8." The bet is live for as long as it takes for either an 8 or a 7 to be rolled. If an 8 appears before a 7, the bet wins and pays even money (1:1). If a 7 is rolled before the 8, the bet loses.

In many ways, the Big 8 bet is similar to a Place Bet on the number 8, but with one important difference: The payout on the Place Bet is slightly better, offering 7:6 instead of 1:1.

Why Some Players Avoid the Big 8 Bet

Even though the Big 8 bet may seem appealing due to its simplicity, it comes with a higher house edge compared to other craps bets. The house edge on the Big 8 is 9.09%, whereas the house edge on a Place Bet on 8 is much lower at 1.52%. This makes the Big 8 bet less favorable in the long run for players who are trying to maximize their chances of winning.

The Place Bet Alternative

For those interested in betting on the number 8, placing a bet directly on the 8 is often a better option. Here’s why:

Better Payout: A Place Bet on 8 pays 7:6, meaning a $6 bet would pay out $7, which is a more favorable return than the 1:1 payout of the Big 8.
Same Outcome: Both the Big 8 and the Place Bet on 8 rely on the same outcome—the number 8 being rolled before a 7.

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Big 8 FAQs

What is the Big 8 bet in craps?

The Big 8 bet is a wager that the number 8 will be rolled before a 7. If the shooter rolls an 8, the bet wins and pays 1:1. If a 7 is rolled first, the bet loses.

What is the payout for a Big 8 bet?

The payout for the Big 8 bet is 1:1, meaning you will receive even money on your wager if an 8 is rolled before a 7.

Why do some players prefer Place Bets over the Big 8?

Place Bets on the number 8 offer better payouts (7:6) and a lower house edge (1.52%) compared to the Big 8 bet, which has a house edge of 9.09% and pays even money.

Is the Big 8 bet a good option for beginners?

The simplicity of the Big 8 bet may appeal to beginners, but due to the higher house edge, it is generally not the best option. Beginners might be better off learning about Place Bets, which offer better odds and payouts.

Can you remove a Big 8 bet at any time?

Yes, a player can remove or reduce a Big 8 bet at any time during the game, as long as the dice are not in play.