9 Best Craps Strategies Ranked & Review

Let’s explore 9 of the best craps strategies to enhance your gameplay, blending the thrill of risk with the wisdom of seasoned players.

Key Takeaways

• Balancing Risk and Reward: Successful strategies often involve a combination of low-risk bets with higher-risk, high-reward options to balance the gameplay.
• Bankroll Management: Essential for sustainable play, effective strategies emphasize the importance of managing your funds and setting limits.
• Adaptability: The best strategies in Craps are adaptable, allowing players to modify their approach based on the game’s flow and their own experiences.

1. Iron Cross Craps Strategy

The Iron Cross Strategy in Craps is a favored method for players who want to cover a large portion of possible outcomes on the table. 

Here’s an expanded look at implementing this strategy:

1. Initial Bets: The Iron Cross Strategy starts with a bet on the Field, which covers the numbers 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, and 12. Simultaneously, Place bets are made on the numbers 5, 6, and 8. This combination covers all numbers except 7.
2. Point Number Consideration: The strategy is most effective when the point number (established from the come-out roll) is 5, 6, or 8. In these cases, your Place bet on the point number isn’t necessary since it’s already covered by the Pass Line bet.
3. Winning and Losing Conditions: The beauty of this strategy lies in its coverage. Except for the number 7, every roll will result in a win. The Field bet wins on 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, and 12, while the Place bets win on 5, 6, and 8.
4. Handling 7: The number 7 is the only losing number in this strategy. If a 7 is rolled, all bets lose. Therefore, the Iron Cross is not a foolproof strategy but rather a way to win on most rolls while hoping that a 7 doesn’t come up too soon.
5. Varying Bets According to Bankroll: Players can adjust the size of their Field and Place bets according to their bankroll. This flexibility makes the Iron Cross Strategy adaptable for different types of players.
6. Strategy Duration: Some players use the Iron Cross for a short duration – just a few rolls – to minimize the risk of hitting a 7. Others stay with it for longer, aiming for a larger number of small wins.

The Iron Cross Strategy offers a broad coverage of numbers, providing frequent wins and an exhilarating Craps experience.

However, it’s important to remember that no strategy can eliminate the house edge entirely, and the number 7 will eventually show up.

As with any betting strategy, it should be used with an understanding of the risks and a commitment to responsible gambling practices.

2. Risky Roller Strategy

The Risky Roller Strategy is designed for Craps players who are willing to take higher risks for potentially big rewards. 

This approach involves placing bets on a wide array of numbers, and in some cases, making multiple bets on the same number.

The key to this strategy is the willingness to bet aggressively, which requires a larger bankroll to sustain potential initial losses. It’s a high-stakes approach that can be thrilling and potentially profitable, but it’s also more volatile. 

Players using the Risky Roller Strategy must be prepared for the possibility of quick losses and should have a clear limit to avoid depleting their bankroll.

This strategy is best suited for experienced players who are comfortable navigating the highs and lows of high-risk betting.

3. Three Point Molly Strategy

The Three Point Molly strategy in Craps is designed for players seeking a balanced approach with a steady chance for winning while protecting their bets. 

Here’s a more detailed look at this strategy:

1. Pass Line Bet: Start with a Pass Line bet. This bet is placed before the come-out roll and wins if the roll is 7 or 11, and loses if it’s 2, 3, or 12. If any other number is rolled, that number becomes the ‘point’.
2. Come Bet: After establishing the point, place a Come bet. This bet works like the Pass Line bet but is placed after the point is set. It wins if a 7 or 11 is rolled after the bet is made and loses if it’s 2, 3, or 12. If another number is rolled, that becomes the point for this Come bet.
3. Odds Bet: Once your Come bet’s point is established, you can take an odds bet on both the Pass Line and Come bets. These odds bets are additional bets that the point will be rolled again before a 7. They’re considered the best bets in Craps as they pay true odds and have no house edge.
4. Repeat: Continue placing Come bets and taking odds until you have three points established (including the original Pass Line point).

This strategy (which we do get a lot of questions about) covers multiple numbers, increasing the likelihood of winning on each roll. The key is to maintain three points while avoiding the number 7, as it would cause all your active bets to lose.

4. Craps Dice Control Strategy

Dice control, or precision shooting, is a controversial strategy where players attempt to throw the dice in a way that influences the outcome. 

This technique involves holding the dice in a specific manner and tossing them with a gentle, controlled motion. 

While debated, some players swear by its effectiveness in affecting the game’s results.

5. Hedging Your Bets Strategy

Hedging involves placing bets that offset potential losses on other bets. Common examples include betting on Don’t Pass and laying odds while also making a Place bet on 6 and 8.

This approach aims to minimize risk, although it may also limit the size of potential winnings.

6. Press Strategy

The Press Strategy in craps is about increasing your bets after a win, essentially using your winnings to bet larger amounts. It’s a method of capitalizing on winning streaks.

For example: after winning a $10 bet, you might increase (press) your next bet to $20. This strategy can rapidly increase winnings, but also comes with higher risk.

7. 6/8 Strategy

The 6/8 Strategy focuses on making Place bets on the numbers 6 and 8. These numbers are statistically more likely to be rolled, apart from 7.

The strategy involves placing bets on these numbers after the come-out roll and hoping they are rolled before a 7.

8. Odds and House Edge Strategy

In this approach, players focus on bets with the lowest house edge and avoid those with high edges. By understanding and leveraging the odds of each bet type, players aim to minimize the casino’s advantage.

For instance, Pass Line bets have a lower house edge compared to proposition bets.

9. Bankroll Management Strategy

Bankroll management is crucial in Craps to ensure that you play responsibly and maximize your gaming experience. Here’s an expanded view of this strategy:

1. Set a Budget: Before playing, decide on the total amount you’re willing to risk. This should be an amount you’re comfortable losing;
2. Bet Proportionally: Your bets should be proportional to your total bankroll. Avoid placing large bets that could deplete your bankroll too quickly;
3. Win and Loss Limits: Establish win and loss limits. A win limit is a point where you’ll stop playing if you’re ahead. A loss limit is the amount you’re prepared to lose before stopping. Stick to these limits to avoid the pitfalls of chasing losses or giving back winnings;
4. Avoid Borrowing Money: Never borrow money to play Craps. If you’ve exhausted your bankroll, it’s time to stop;
5. Track Your Spending: Keep track of your bets and outcomes. This not only helps in managing your budget but also allows you to evaluate the effectiveness of your betting strategy;
6. Take Breaks: Regular breaks help you to reassess your strategy and prevent impulsive decisions;
7. Choose a Reputable Casino: You can browse through our curated list to pick a platform that adheres to the strictest responsible gambling rules.

Effective bankroll management helps in prolonging your play and enhancing your overall Craps experience. It’s about finding the balance between enjoying the game and playing within your financial means.

Wrapping Up

Craps is a game with many rules and layers, offering different strategies for various types of players. 

Whether you prefer a conservative approach or enjoy taking risks for bigger payouts, understanding these 9 craps strategies is crucial.

From the Iron Cross to Bankroll Management, each craps strategy offers its unique perspective on how to navigate the table. 

Remember: while strategies can guide your play, the inherent randomness of Craps means that there is always an element of chance. 

It’s important to play responsibly, manage your bankroll wisely, know the lingo and most importantly, enjoy the thrill and excitement that Craps brings to the casino floor.