Do Casinos Let You Wait for the 5-Count?

Hi, Frank,

I've been playing craps for a while now and just read your book Forever Craps. I have a question about the 5-count. Do most casinos let you stand around with no money on the table, taking up a spot while waiting for the 5-count? Or do you always start the 5-count with the minimum pass-line bet?

What if there's no one else at the table? They won't let you just throw the dice around for free while waiting for your 5-count, will they?

I'm interested in trying the 5-count, but I've often seen dealers ask people to lay down their bets or get out of the way so another willing player could have the spot.

What's the proper procedure?

Jordan

Dear Jordan:

The 5-Count eliminates 57 percent of the random rolls. If you use the 5-Count come-betting technique, you are up on the Come after the 3-Count and there isn't much waiting. You will only put odds once the 5-Count has been completed, however.

There isn't as much "standing around" as you might think. Since a significant number of shooters seven out pretty quickly it just looks as if you haven't gotten into the action immediately.

I've been playing the 5-Count for almost 20 years now and have had no problems at the tables. Our Golden Touch dice control crew plays the 5-Count too - again no problems. Most craps players don't bet all at once at the very beginning of a shooter's roll. It is typical of craps players to make bets intermittently. You will just be betting like any other craps player.

If no one is at the table and you are rolling - then obviously you have to make a pass line bet on yourself. If you are just a random roller then definitely use the 5-Count on yourself since, in truth, you are a long-term loser. If you are a controlled shooter then you can go right up on yourself if you wish to.

The 5-Count is a great way to reduce overall risk but it can't give you an edge in a random game - it can only help you reduce your losses.

All the best in and out of the casinos!

Frank Scoblete