Evaluating two craps bets

Dear Frank,

In your opinion what would be the better bet in craps?

1. After the point has been established bet $64 across (minimum bet is $10) and let it work for 3 rolls, then take all bets down.

Or

2. After the point has been established, bet $20 on the number 5, $18 on the numbers 6 and 8, and $10 on the field for a total bet of $66. Let this bet work for 3 rolls and then take all bets down.

A big fan of yours,
Joe R.

Dear Joe:

Both are poor ways to bet but here goes. It is always best to look at each bet separately to see the damage you are facing because of the house edge.

Proposition #1: So your first proposition loses you 40 cents on the 5 and 40 cents on the 9; with a loss of 18 cents on the 6 and 18 cents on the 8.

Now compare those losses with your second proposition.

You will lose 80 cents on the 5; you will lose 27 cents on the 6 and 27 cents on the 8; and you will lose 55 cents on the field bet.

Of the two propositions, your first is the better one. However, I would not bet the 5 or 9 and just stick with the 6 and 8, two far superior bets.

Taking the bets down after three rolls is a fine way to play. Every time you have a bet in action, the house edge is grinding away at them. So the less often you bet, the less you lose in the long run. In that light, I strongly recommend that you use the 5-Count, which reduces your hit by 57% on all random shooters. Check out my new book Casino Craps: Shoot to Win! for a full explanation of how the 5-Count works.

I am giving you a free 30-day subscription to my private members-only website at www.goldentouchcraps.com. We have over 5,000 members on this site, and I think you will enjoy it.

All the best in and out of the casinos!

Frank