Craps Decorum

6 September 2022

By Frank Scoblete

All games have their proper way to play them. Some of these ways are actually considered fundamental rules, such as not allowing the picking up of the cards off the table in a blackjack game from a shoe. The dealer will strongly tell you not to do this.

Of course, many handheld blackjack games require the players to pick up the cards. Players are supposed to know which game is which game and follow the rules of that game.

Some rules are not written and are not exactly carved in stone although the players who follow these “rules” do not care if they are not real rules because in their hearts and mind they are real rules to them.

No game seems to have so many unreal rules as craps. If you have never played craps before and want to learn the un-rule rules of the game you’re reading the right article now.

1. Do not talk to the player who is about to shoot the dice.
2. Do not put your hands over the table when the shooter is about to shoot the dice.
3. Do not throw the dice so fast that they bounce high and fly off the table.
4. Do not throw the dice so hard that they careen into the stacks of chips in front of the boxman on the table, causing those chips to tumble and spill over the table.
5. Do not place a bet or call out a bet when the shooter has the dice in his or her hand.
6. Do not smoke at the table even if smoking is allowed at the table. Step back a few paces to give the rest of us some air.
7. If the shooter is having a good roll do not cheer into his or her face, especially if you are high or have eaten a meal full of garlic.
8. Do not say the word “seven” at the table when the shooter has the dice.
9. Do not “boo” or say mean things if a shooter sevens out and you lose some money. That’s the game. Every shooter wants to win money.
10. If you are a “don’t” (darkside) player, be respectful of the players rooting for the point number.
11. If a “don’t” player is at your table be respectful of his right to play the game as he sees fit.
12. If a player likes to set his dice and take care with his or her roll that is perfectly okay. Keep any sarcastic comments to yourself.
13. If you think you are a comedian after you’ve had a few drinks keep this in mind, “Chances are you are not funny, only loud.”
14. Let the other players bet the way they want to bet. It isn’t up to you to save them money. Just enjoy playing the game.
15. If anyone asks you how they should play, refer them to the dealers as the experts.

And to all of you who enjoy a good game: All the best in and out of the casinos!

Frank Scoblete’s web site is www.frankscoblete.com. His books are available from Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, Kindle, e-books, libraries and bookstores.