Bank Craps: The Complete Guide for Australian Casino Players

Bank craps is a fast-paced dice game where players wager against the casino rather than each other, making it one of the most exciting table games in any gambling establishment. Originating from the traditional street dice game “craps,” bank craps gets its name from the fact that the casino acts as the “bank” that covers all bets. The game centers around the outcome of rolling two six-sided dice, with players placing various bets on potential results. Unlike street craps where players take turns being the shooter, in bank craps the shooter continues rolling until they “seven out” by rolling a seven after establishing a point number. What makes bank craps particularly appealing is its blend of simple basic bets that beginners can grasp quickly, alongside more complex wagers that experienced players use to maximize potential returns. With house edges as low as 1.41% on certain bets, it offers some of the best odds among casino table games, which explains why both casual gamblers and serious players continue flocking to craps tables at land-based and online casinos across Australia.

• Bank craps is a casino dice game where players bet against the house rather than each other
• The lowest house edge bets (pass line and come bets) offer nearly even odds at 1.41%
• Learning proper dice control technique can potentially influence outcomes, though controversial
• Understanding the betting layout and etiquette is crucial before joining a live craps table
• Online craps offers convenience but lacks the social atmosphere of land-based casino play
• Bank craps has one of the widest ranges of betting options among casino games
• Managing bankroll effectively is essential due to the game’s fast pace and betting complexity

What is Bank Craps?

Bank craps refers to the casino version of the classic dice game where the establishment acts as the banker, accepting all player bets. This distinguishes it from street craps where players bet against each other. In Australian casinos, bank craps follows standardized rules that create a consistent playing experience whether you’re at Crown Melbourne or an online platform. The game revolves around a shooter who rolls two dice across the table, with other players placing wagers on the outcome of these rolls. What makes bank craps particularly engaging is its communal atmosphere – everyone at the table typically roots for the shooter to win, creating an exciting social environment that’s unique among casino games.

The key element that defines bank craps is the “house edge” structure. Unlike street craps where odds can vary depending on agreements between players, bank craps has fixed payouts determined by the casino. This creates transparent, consistent betting conditions but also ensures the casino maintains a mathematical advantage on all bets except certain odds wagers. Understanding these house edges is fundamental to developing a successful craps strategy that maximizes your playing time and potential winnings.

“Many beginners make the critical error of spreading their chips across too many bet types at once. Focus on mastering the pass line with full odds before exploring proposition bets. The pass line bet with maximum odds offers among the lowest house edges in the entire casino – just 0.8% when taking 3-4-5x odds. This single bet strategy alone can extend your bankroll significantly compared to chasing high-paying but improbable proposition bets.” – Michael Shackleford, The Wizard of Odds

History of Craps and Its Evolution

The roots of craps trace back to medieval England with a game called “hazard,” which was brought to New Orleans by French settlers in the early 18th century. The name “craps” likely evolved from the French word “crapaud,” meaning toad, referring to players crouching to roll dice on the streets. By the 1860s, Bernard DeVille standardized the rules we recognize today, transforming it from a street game to one suitable for formal gambling establishments.

In Australia, craps gained popularity following World War II when American soldiers introduced it to local casinos. The game quickly became a staple at major gambling venues like Crown Melbourne and The Star Sydney. While roulette and blackjack maintained broader appeal, craps developed a dedicated following among Australian gamblers who appreciated its fast pace and social dynamics. The modern version played in Australian casinos follows the same fundamental rules as international standards, with the primary difference being the use of Australian dollars for betting and occasional variations in maximum bet limits.

Basic Rules of Bank Craps

Bank craps follows a straightforward sequence that revolves around two main phases: the come-out roll and the point phase. During the come-out roll, the shooter attempts to establish a point number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10). If they roll a 7 or 11 on this initial roll, pass line bets win immediately. Rolling a 2, 3, or 12 results in a loss for pass line bets (though 12 often results in a push at Australian casinos). Any other number establishes the point.

Once a point is established, the game enters the second phase where the shooter continues rolling until they either roll the point number again (resulting in pass line bets winning) or roll a 7 (resulting in pass line bets losing and the shooter’s turn ending). This simple win/lose structure forms the foundation of craps, though the actual game incorporates numerous additional betting options that create its characteristic complexity.

Proper dice handling is essential in bank craps. In Australian casinos, dice must be thrown with one hand and must hit the back wall of the table for the roll to be valid. Players cannot handle the dice until the stickman (the dealer who manages the center bets) gives permission. These rules ensure randomness and prevent dice manipulation, maintaining game integrity.

“Australian craps tables often have slightly different payouts on certain hardway bets compared to US casinos. Always check the specific payout structure before playing, especially on proposition bets. Many players assume standard international payouts and are disappointed to discover reduced returns on certain wagers. This is particularly common with the ‘any seven’ bet which sometimes pays 4:1 instead of the more common 4:1 in Australian venues.” – Frank Scoblete, Professional Craps Player and Author

Understanding Craps Betting Options

The craps layout features numerous betting areas, each representing different wager types with varying odds and house edges. Understanding these options is crucial for developing an effective strategy. The main categories of craps bets include:

• Pass Line/Don’t Pass Line – The fundamental bets that form the backbone of craps strategy
• Come/Don’t Come – Functionally identical to pass line bets but can be placed after the point is established
• Odds Bets – Additional bets with no house edge that can be placed after pass/come bets
• Place Bets – Wagers on specific numbers (4,5,6,8,9,10) to be rolled before a 7
• Field Bets – One-roll bets that win if the next roll is 2,3,4,9,10,11, or 12
• Proposition Bets – High-risk, high-reward one-roll bets on the center of the layout
• Hardway Bets – Wagers that a specific number will be rolled as doubles before a 7 or the easy version

For Australian players, the pass line bet represents the most strategic starting point. With a house edge of just 1.41% and the ability to take odds bets that have zero house edge, it forms the foundation of most professional craps strategies. The don’t pass line bet offers slightly better odds (1.36% house edge) but is less socially popular since you’re essentially betting against the shooter.

Craps Odds and Payouts Explained

Understanding the mathematics behind craps odds is essential for maximizing your potential returns. The house edge varies dramatically between different bet types, making some wagers significantly more favorable than others. The key concept in craps odds is the difference between true odds (the actual mathematical probability of an outcome) and casino odds (the payout ratio the casino offers).

For instance, the probability of rolling a 6 before a 7 is 5 to 6 against, meaning the true odds are 6:5. When you place a bet on 6, the casino pays 7:6, which creates the 1.52% house edge. Similarly, the true odds of rolling a 4 before a 7 are 2:1 against, while the casino pays 9:5 for place bets (creating a 6.67% house edge) or allows taking 2:1 odds on pass line bets (with zero house edge).

The most powerful betting strategy involves combining pass line bets with maximum odds. While the pass line itself has a 1.41% house edge, the odds portion has no house edge because it pays true odds. By maximizing the odds portion relative to your pass line bet, you effectively lower the overall house edge on your total wager. Australian casinos typically allow 3-4-5x odds, meaning you can bet three times your pass line wager on points of 4 or 10, four times on 5 or 9, and five times on 6 or 8.

“Many Australian players don’t realize that the ‘put’ bet strategy – placing maximum bets directly on numbers after the point is established – can sometimes provide better value than the traditional pass line approach. When table minimums are high relative to your bankroll, placing $30 on 6 and 8 with house edge of 1.52% each might give you longer play than a $10 pass line with $20 odds. It’s not the optimal strategy mathematically, but it better suits certain bankroll management scenarios.” – Henry Tamburin, Blackjack and Craps Analyst

Effective Bank Craps Strategies

Successful craps play combines understanding mathematical probabilities with disciplined bankroll management. The most effective strategies focus on minimizing the house edge while maintaining engagement with the game’s social aspects. Here are several proven approaches:

Low House Edge Strategy

This fundamental approach involves placing a pass line or don’t pass line bet followed by maximum odds. By focusing on these low-edge wagers, you maximize your playing time and reduce the casino’s advantage. Many Australian casinos offer 3-4-5x odds, allowing you to significantly lower your effective house edge.

Place Betting Strategy

Focusing on place bets on 6 and 8 provides consistent action with relatively low house edges (1.52%). This strategy works well for players who want to avoid the come-out roll volatility or prefer to have multiple active bets on numbers they favor.

Progressive Betting Systems

While no betting system can overcome the house edge in the long run, progressive systems like the 3-Point Molly can help structure your play:

1. Bet on the pass line
2. After establishing a point, place a come bet
3. After the come bet establishes a point, place another come bet
4. When one of your points hits, replace it with another come bet
5. Maintain three active come points plus odds on your pass line bet

Bankroll Management Techniques

Craps’ fast pace can quickly deplete your bankroll without proper management. Recommended practices include:

• Bring at least 50 times your minimum bet as a session bankroll
• Set loss and win limits before playing
• Divide your bankroll into session units
• Never chase losses during a losing streak
• Consider using the 5-Count method to limit dice rolls to more favorable sequences

Playing Bank Craps Online in Australia

Australian players increasingly enjoy bank craps through reputable online casinos that offer both standard and live dealer versions. While no online experience perfectly replicates the social atmosphere of a land-based craps table, modern platforms provide several advantages:

• Convenience of playing from anywhere with internet access
• Lower minimum bets compared to physical casinos
• Ability to practice with free demo games before wagering real money
• Faster game pace for quicker results
• Bonus offers that can extend playing time

When selecting an Australian online casino for craps, consider these factors:

• Licensing and regulation by recognized authorities
• Game variety including standard RNG craps and live dealer options
• Mobile compatibility for playing on smartphones or tablets
• Quality of software providers (look for Evolution Gaming, Playtech, Microgaming)
• Withdrawal speed and methods compatible with Australian banking
• Bonus terms that actually allow craps play (many bonuses exclude table games)

For Australian players, understanding how online craps handles odds bets is crucial. Some operators limit the multiple of odds you can take, affecting your overall strategy. Additionally, watch for casinos that exclude craps from bonus wagering requirements or apply high contribution percentages, effectively making bonuses worthless for craps players.

Live Dealer Craps Experience

Live dealer craps represents the best compromise between land-based and online play, combining the authenticity of a physical casino with the convenience of online gambling. Australian players can now access high-quality live craps through several reputable operators that provide:

• Real-time HD video streams of professional dealers
• Interactive interfaces that mimic physical betting layouts
• Multiple camera angles showing dice rolls clearly
• Chat functionality to interact with dealers and other players
• Slower pace that resembles land-based casino play

The most significant advantage of live dealer craps is the authenticity of dice rolls. Unlike RNG versions where outcomes are determined by algorithms, live dealer craps uses actual dice rolled by a professional dealer, providing the same randomness as a brick-and-mortar casino. Many Australian-focused live dealer casinos employ dealers familiar with local customs and terminology, enhancing the experience for domestic players.

When playing live dealer craps, remember to account for slight delays in the video stream. Your betting window closes before the dice are actually rolled to accommodate this, so place your bets promptly. Most platforms provide countdown timers to indicate when betting closes for each roll.

Mobile Craps Gaming Options

Playing bank craps on mobile devices has become increasingly popular among Australian gamblers. Modern casino apps and mobile-optimized websites offer seamless craps experiences that work well on smartphones and tablets. When selecting a mobile craps platform, consider these key factors:

For optimal mobile craps play, follow these tips:

• Use a stable Wi-Fi connection to prevent disconnections mid-game
• Select apps with simplified betting interfaces designed for smaller screens
• Adjust your bet sizes downward compared to desktop play to accommodate potential connection issues
• Look for apps with landscape mode support for better visibility of the craps layout
• Take advantage of mobile-exclusive bonuses which often have better terms than desktop offers

Many Australian players prefer mobile craps for its discretion and convenience, allowing them to play during commutes or brief breaks. However, the smaller screen size can make complex betting strategies challenging, so beginners might want to start with simpler pass line + odds approaches before attempting more complicated wagers on mobile.

Craps Table Etiquette and Terminology

Proper craps etiquette is essential when playing at Australian land-based casinos. Unlike many table games, craps has a unique social atmosphere with specific customs and behaviors expected of players. Understanding these rules ensures a pleasant experience for everyone at the table.

Essential Craps Etiquette

• Always handle chips with one hand when placing bets
• Place bets during designated betting windows (not while dice are in motion)
• Cheer for the shooter (even when betting don’t pass)
• Don’t touch the dealer’s chips or interfere with other players’ bets
• Respect the stickman’s control of the center bets
• Tip dealers occasionally, especially after big wins
• Understand proper dice-throwing technique: one hand, hitting back wall

Common Craps Terminology

Familiarizing yourself with craps slang helps you feel more comfortable at the table and understand game announcements:

Common Craps Mistakes to Avoid

Many Australian players make preventable errors that diminish their craps enjoyment and bankroll longevity. Being aware of these common pitfalls can significantly improve your experience:

The Gambler’s Fallacy Trap

One of the most pervasive mistakes is believing that previous rolls influence future outcomes. Each dice roll is statistically independent – the dice have no memory. Just because a 7 hasn’t appeared in 15 rolls doesn’t make it “due” on the next roll. This misconception leads many players to make poor betting decisions based on non-existent patterns.

Chasing Losses

Craps’ fast pace makes it particularly susceptible to loss-chasing behavior. Players often increase bet sizes after losses trying to recover quickly, which typically accelerates bankroll depletion. Setting strict loss limits before playing and sticking to them prevents this destructive cycle.

Overcomplicating Bets

Novices often spread their money across too many bet types simultaneously, believing this “hedges” their risk. In reality, this increases overall exposure to the house edge. Starting with simple pass line + odds bets allows you to learn the game mechanics before expanding your betting repertoire.

Neglecting Bankroll Management

Without proper bankroll management, even mathematically sound betting strategies will eventually fail. The table below outlines recommended session bankroll sizes based on bet amounts:

What Experts Say About Bank Craps

We reached out to several gambling industry professionals and mathematicians to gather expert opinions on bank craps strategy and its place in modern casino gaming.

Dr. Robert Hannum, Professor of Risk Analysis at the University of Denver, explains: “Bank craps represents a fascinating intersection of probability theory and human psychology. While the mathematical house edges are fixed, the game’s social structure and fast pace create powerful psychological effects that often override rational decision-making. Players experience ‘near miss’ excitement even when losing money overall, which explains its enduring popularity despite more mathematically favorable games being available.”

Professional dice controller Dominic LoRiggio, known as “The Dice Dominator,” offers this perspective: “The key insight most players miss is that bank craps doesn’t have to be purely random. With dedicated practice, some shooters can influence outcomes through controlled throws. While this won’t eliminate the house edge, it can shift probabilities enough to create positive expectation in specific betting scenarios. The challenge is most casino environments make consistent dice control difficult due to table design and rules.”

Casino manager Sarah Chen, with 15 years experience at Crown Melbourne, notes: “Craps brings unique energy to our casino floor that no other table game matches. While it represents a smaller percentage of our table game revenue compared to baccarat or blackjack, its social nature creates an atmosphere that benefits all nearby games. We’ve observed that tables with knowledgeable stickmen who engage players see higher average bets and longer player sessions.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bet in bank craps?

The pass line bet with maximum odds offers the lowest house edge at approximately 0.3-0.8% depending on the odds multiple. This combination provides the most favorable mathematical expectation while maintaining engagement with the game’s progression.

Can you consistently win at craps?

No betting system can overcome the house edge in the long run. However, skilled players using disciplined bankroll management and optimal betting strategies can extend their playing time and experience winning sessions. Dice control techniques remain controversial but some players claim limited success with extensive practice.

What is the house edge on different craps bets?

House edges vary significantly:

• Pass/Don’t Pass Line: 1.41%/1.36%
• Pass Line Odds: 0% (true odds)
• Come/Don’t Come: Same as pass line
• Place 6 or 8: 1.52%
• Place 5 or 9: 4.00%
• Place 4 or 10: 6.67%
• Field Bet: 2.78% or 5.56% (depending on 2 and 12 payout)
• Any Seven: 16.67%

How do odds bets work in craps?

Odds bets are additional wagers you can place after a pass line or come bet has established a point. These bets pay true odds (no house edge) but must be placed in specific multiples depending on the point number. For example, with 3-4-5x odds:

• Points of 4 or 10: Odds bet pays 2:1, maximum 3x pass line bet
• Points of 5 or 9: Odds bet pays 3:2, maximum 4x pass line bet
• Points of 6 or 8: Odds bet pays 6:5, maximum 5x pass line bet

What is the 5-Count method in craps?

The 5-Count is a dice control technique developed by Frank Scoblete that identifies potentially skilled shooters. It counts: 1) The come-out roll, 2) The first point number roll, 3) The second point number roll, 4) The third point number roll, 5) Any subsequent point number roll. Betting only after a shooter passes the 5-Count may theoretically increase your odds of winning, though the effectiveness remains debated among experts.

How much should I tip dealers in craps?

Tipping dealers (called “toking”) is customary in Australian casinos. A common practice is to place a $1 chip in the hardway section for the dealers whenever you win a significant bet. Alternatively, you can directly give a chip to the dealer with “this one’s for you.” Dealers appreciate tips but never feel obligated to tip beyond your comfort level.

Can I play craps for free in Australia?

Yes, several options exist for practicing craps without risk:

• Many online casinos offer free demo versions of craps games
• Some land-based casinos run occasional free-roll tournaments
• Mobile apps often include practice modes
• Home practice with physical dice (though outcomes won’t match casino probabilities)

What is the difference between bank craps and street craps?

Bank craps is played against the casino (the “bank”) with standardized rules and payouts, while street craps is played between players without a house taking a commission. Bank craps has more betting options and follows strict casino procedures, while street craps is more informal with players negotiating rules and odds among themselves.

How fast does craps move compared to other casino games?

Craps is one of the fastest-paced table games, typically averaging 100-150 rolls per hour. This rapid pace means your bankroll can deplete quickly if not managed properly, but it also creates more betting opportunities and excitement per session compared to slower games like blackjack or baccarat.

Are online craps games rigged?

At licensed and regulated online casinos, craps games use Random Number Generators (RNGs) that are regularly tested for fairness by independent laboratories. Reputable operators display their certification from bodies like eCOGRA or iTech Labs. Stick to well-established casinos with proper licensing to ensure fair play.