Readers Write (Captain's 5 Count and Its Relation to The Theory of Rhythmic Rollers)

Dear Mr. Scoblete,

A few of us have been involved in a discussion regarding the Captain's 5 Count and its relation to the theory of rhythmic rollers. Although I am not a systems player, I do feel the 5 count has a few things to offer and it is not a system that will put more cash at risk for a small return--quite the opposite in that it limits your exposure to the house edge. In conjunction with this we started discussing the possibility that some shooters, a very few, can control the dice more than the average shooter.

I would like to know your personal opinion on the 5 count and also on the theory of rhythmic rollers and in your opinion do they exist. I never thought it possible until I had the pleasure of seeing the Captain at Bally's in Atlantic City and my opinion has changed in that I do feel it is possible that a very few shooters may have some control, although not an exact science, over the dice, which is probably due to long hours of practice. Quite by coincidence your article on the Captain's 5 Count appeared in Casino Player magazine shortly after our discussion began. Thank you in advance for your thoughts and opinions.

Sincerely,
Bob

Dear Bob:

Probably the Captain's long-run success at craps using the 5-Count has to do with the existence of rhythmic rollers. The 5-Count allows us to be there for extended periods of time, so that when these individuals show up we haven't lost so much that we can't come roaring back. So, yes, I am a believer.

Rhythmic rolling is not such a hard thing for me to swallow. Since I have seen two in action numerous times (the Arm and the Golden Arm) and know a third (Sharpshooter), it isn't a great leap of faith to figure there are many more out there. I have also received dozens of letters form individuals who claim to have some control over the dice or who know folks that do. The operant word is "some control" because no rhythmic roller has absolute control. But a slight decrease in the appearance of the seven or a slight increase in a single die-face will take a slightly negative expectation and make it slightly positive. Over the past half dozen years I have been practicing my own rolling style with great success.

But the key to me is that 5-Count. It positions you to take advantage of rhythmic rollers when they appear -- even if that RR is yourself! My new book, Forever Craps: The Five Step Advantage Player Method, will have much more on rhythmic rolling and shooter selection. You can call 1-800-944-0406 to order a copy. The book retails at $13.95 but Paone Press is selling it for $12.50. We should have copies several weeks before they hit the bookstores and internet websites.

By the way, Bally's is indeed one of the casinos that the Captain frequents in Atlantic City (including the Wild Wild West). Since I'll be seeing him in a couple of weeks to do some interviews, I'll say hi to him from you!

All the best in and out of the casinos!
Frank Scoblete

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