Snake Eyes

In the game of craps, specific dice combinations carry unique significance, and one of the most infamous is Snake Eyes. This term refers to rolling a total of 2 with two dice, meaning both dice land on 1. While it may seem like just another roll, Snake Eyes is widely regarded as an unlucky result in many betting scenarios.

What is Snake Eyes in Craps?

Snake Eyes is the term used when a shooter rolls a 1-1 combination, totaling 2. It is one of the least common rolls in craps, appearing only 2.78% of the time (1 in 36 rolls). The roll's name comes from the resemblance of the two ones to the narrow, menacing eyes of a snake.

While Snake Eyes is sometimes beneficial in specific bets, it is generally considered a losing roll in most situations. On a come-out roll, for example, it results in an immediate loss for Pass Line bettors, making it an undesirable outcome.

Why is Snake Eyes Considered Unlucky?

Several factors contribute to the reputation of Snake Eyes as an unlucky roll:

Immediate Loss on the Come-Out Roll: If a player rolls a 2 on the come-out roll, all Pass Line bets lose immediately.
Rare and Hard to Predict: With only one combination out of 36 possible rolls, betting on Snake Eyes is highly risky.
Superstitions and Casino Lore: Many gamblers view rolling a 1-1 as an omen of bad luck, much like seeing actual snake eyes in nature.

How to Bet on Snake Eyes

Though Snake Eyes is generally unfavorable, it can be profitable if wagered correctly. Some betting options include:

Hop Bet on 1-1: A hop bet specifically on the 1-1 roll can offer large payouts, though it is even riskier than the standard proposition bet.
Craps Bet: Some players bet on the combination of 2, 3, and 12 (known as the "Any Craps" bet), which includes Snake Eyes.

Strategies for Betting on Snake Eyes

Since Snake Eyes is such a rare roll, most strategies focus on avoiding risky bets rather than actively betting on it. However, some approaches include:

Avoid Proposition Bets: The house edge on Snake Eyes bets is extremely high, making them poor long-term wagers.
Use Hedge Betting: Some advanced craps players hedge their bets to minimize losses if Snake Eyes appears.
Play for Fun, Not Expectation: If betting on Snake Eyes, do so for entertainment rather than as a primary strategy.

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