Don't Pass Bet
The Don't Pass Bet in craps is a wager against the shooter, meaning you are betting that the shooter will not make the point.
It is essentially the opposite of the Pass Line Bet. At an online casino or landbased casino, this bet is sometimes referred to as playing the dark side because it benefits when the shooter loses. Despite its contrary nature, the Don't Pass Bet offers one of the lowest house edges in craps, making it an appealing choice for strategic players.
How the Don't Pass Bet Works
- Placing the Bet: The Don't Pass Bet is placed before the come-out roll. You put your chips on the Don't Pass Bar section of the table to indicate that you are betting against the shooter.
Come-Out Roll:
- If the shooter rolls a 2 or 3, the Don't Pass Bet wins.
- If a 7 or 11 is rolled, the Don't Pass Bet loses.
- If a 12 is rolled, the result is a push (neither win nor lose), which is why the table is marked Don't Pass Bar.
- If any other number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10) is rolled, this number becomes the point.
- Point Phase: After the point is established, the Don't Pass Bet wins if a 7 is rolled before the point number. If the point number is rolled first, the Don't Pass Bet loses.
Payouts for the Don't Pass Bet
A winning Don't Pass Bet pays even money (1:1). For example, if you bet $10, you will win $10. If the come-out roll is a 12, resulting in a push, your original bet remains on the table.
Taking Odds on the Don't Pass Bet
Once the point is established, you can choose to lay odds on your Don't Pass Bet. This involves placing an additional bet behind your original wager, enhancing your potential payout. The odds payout varies depending on the point number, and this additional bet has no house edge, making it a favorable option for players.
Tips for Using the Don't Pass Bet
- Understanding the Odds: The Don't Pass Bet has a low house edge (approximately 1.36%), making it a good choice for strategic players who want to maximize their chances of winning.
- Lay Odds: Take advantage of laying odds to improve your payouts since these bets carry no house edge.
- Stay Consistent: Some players prefer to consistently bet on the Don't Pass because it statistically favors the 7 appearing before the point in the long run.
Don't Pass Bet FAQs
What is the main difference between a Don't Pass Bet and a Pass Line Bet?
The Don't Pass Bet is a wager against the shooter, while the Pass Line Bet is a wager in favor of the shooter making the point.
Why does a 12 result in a push on a Don't Pass Bet?
The push on 12 balances the game odds to give the house a slight edge. Without this rule, the Don't Pass Bet would statistically favor the player.
Can I remove my Don't Pass Bet after placing it?
Yes, you can remove or decrease your Don't Pass Bet at any time. However, increasing the bet is generally not allowed once the point is established.
Is it rude to make a Don't Pass Bet?
Some players view Don't Pass Bets as betting against the group. However, it's a valid strategy, and experienced players understand that everyone plays to maximize their own odds.
Can I combine a Don't Pass Bet with other bets?
Yes, you can combine it with other bets, such as Don't Come Bets or proposition bets, to diversify your betting strategy.
