The "off-on"problem at craps

19 March 2013

By Frank Scoblete

Dear Frank,

I have been playing craps, following and reading about strategies for the past 20 years, initially playing $10 table with a pass line bet and two come bets, all with full odds.

Fortunately I have been able to increase my bets over the years and now play $25 pass and come line bets. I have read about controlled shooting and set the dice as well as follow the principles of a controlled throw, but haven’t gotten to where I practice shooting, so not sure how effective it is. I also enjoy a fair number of comps where I stay and play. I also play blackjack.

Often now when I have my pass and two come bets I don’t like to hit a come bet because it comes down and then I have to place another come, hit the number again to get paid. So I put another come bet out to take advantage of “off and on.” Pretty soon, I have all the numbers covered.

On a recent trip to the Venetian, I was the only player at the table and the pit boss pointed out that I would be better doing a Buy bet on the 4 and 10. The come bet “off and on” pay $175 and a buy bet after the vig on a win only, pays $195, plus I get rated for $100 per bet instead of $25 per bet.

What is wrong with this strategy besides missing the payoff on the 7 and 11 on a come out roll? Since everything credible I’ve read says play the pass and come bet for the best odds, there must be something flawed in the pit bosses suggested strategy?

Thanks
Bradley S.


Dear Bradley:

You kind of answered your own question. The reason the pass-line and come-bets are superior has to do with the possible arrival of the 7 or 11 on that first placement when you can win eight times but only lose four times.

Now buying a 4 and/or 10 for $100 is not a bad bet if the vig is only paid on wins but it still can’t match come betting. Since you are playing with a disadvantage on all of these bets, the “off and on” gives you too much risk because you can wind up on all the numbers and get slaughtered by a 7 --- so once a come bet wins and comes down, just go with another come bet. Mathematically it is the best way to play. Casinos win their money through math and you must use that math to give yourself the best shot at the casino’s bankroll.

Yes, the casino has the edge but you do not have to feed that edge as you are doing with the “off and on” strategy. Just go with two or three come bets with full odds and leave it at that. Being on too many numbers in a game that sees you at a disadvantage is not the way to play.

I am sending you a copy of my book “The Virgin Kiss” for your excellent letter.

If any readers would like a free copy just send me a letter with a question and/or story and if I publish it I will be happy to send the book to you.

All the best in and out of the casinos!

Frank Scoblete