What do you think of an underhand dice throw at craps?

Hi Frank:

I am a practicing dice control shooter. I would like to know your thoughts on the best technique to toss the dice. I have seen some of your videos and they all seem to feature a backhand toss, producing backspin before the dice hit the back wall.

I have practiced an underhand, forward toss that produces overspin instead of backspin. I noticed that it is much easier for me to release the dice together with this underhand throw. I was wondering if you have seen this technique before and if it can be successful? I would greatly appreciate your feedback on this and to hear your experience. I really enjoy your site and the info you provide.

Thanks!

Scott

Dear Scott:

I experimented with an underhanded throw in the 1990s; although not quite the type you have described as I had no spin on the dice. To me the throw you describe is not as powerful as the backhand, pendulum swing that Golden Touch Craps teaches for a few reasons.

The first has to do with the spinning of the dice. Your underhand throw spins the dice towards the back wall so the dice are not slowed down when they hit the table but instead lurch forward. Second, when those dice hit the back wall the spin you have causes them to go up, whereas the back spin of the Golden Touch throw causes the dice to go down. Third, by going up the dice will hit harder under a pyramid and bounce off faster or they will hit the points of the pyramids and bound up and out onto the table. That's way too much energy.

In short, that underhand throw as you describe it leaves a lot to be desired. Yes, it is easy to do, but with practice the Golden Touch throw is far more powerful.

My new book, Casino Craps: Shoot to Win! has detailed explanations and pictures of what the best possible throw should be. In addition, it covers all aspects of craps betting because you have to know what bets to make to take advantage of a controlled throw. The book is available now at amazon.com or at your local bookstore.

I am giving you a free 30-day subscription to our 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