There is no sure-shot way to make money shooting dice. Despite the much-debated dice control strategy, the game’s randomness ultimately prevents guaranteed long-term profit.
A simple game where every roll draws in excitement, of course, we are talking about shooting dice or street craps. In movies, we might have seen people kissing the dice before throwing them. But once you actually try your hand at the game, you understand that there’s more to it than just betting and rolling.
So, rookies, if you are wondering about how to shoot dice on the street like a pro or how to play casino craps, our easy guide is at your rescue. We will also take a look at the basics, cover the lingo, and go through essential tips and strategies. So, when you go “rolling”, you actually do it like a pro. Let’s get started, shall we?
In simple terms, craps is a game that revolves around the player, called the “shooter”, who rolls two dice. The goal is to predict what numbers the dice will show after the roll. This shooter stands at one end of the oval table, facing the casino staff, and is usually surrounded by other players.
Once all bets are placed, the “stickperson” gives the dice to the shooter. The shooter then makes their first roll, called the “Come-out” roll. A shooter’s turn typically lasts about 5 to 15 rolls. If they are particularly lucky and avoid rolling a 7, their turn can even extend to 20 rolls or more. To be a shooter in craps, you must be actively placing bets.
More importantly, when you are the shooter, you are required to place either a “Pass Line” or a “Don’t Pass” bet. This ensures you have a stake in the outcome of the dice rolls, specifically the “Come-out” and “Point” phases of the game. It’s the casino staff that picks the shooter by going clockwise around the table.
If you have just joined, you might need to wait for a turn or two, as other players may have been there longer. A shooter’s turn ends when they roll a 7, also known as “crapping out.” Then, the dice pass to the next player in line. This can take time, so everyone has to wait patiently till they become the shooter. As a shooter in live craps, you will likely get a fair amount of time, averaging around 7 rolls per turn.
In fact, you are guaranteed at least two rolls. You have an 89% chance of rolling 3 or more times, a 49% chance to reach your 6th roll, and a 10% chance for your 17th roll. Extremely rarely, about 1 in 100 turns will see you roll an impressive 32 times. If you manage to roll for an hour straight without hitting a 7, you will earn the legendary title of “Golden Arm.”
Technically, shooting dice or street craps and casino craps both involve betting on two dice. However, they can be different games based on their rules, how they are set up, and the vibe among players. Let’s look at their differentiating factors:
Street craps is a casual game. You just need dice and a flat surface to play. Players usually agree on the rules as they go, so they are simpler and more flexible than in a casino. While the main rules like the “come-out roll” and setting a “point” are usually followed, players can also make up their own variations.
Meanwhile, casino craps follows very strict rules set by the casino and its staff. Everything from rolling the dice to placing bets and getting paid out has a set procedure. The game is played on a special table with a felt surface that clearly shows all the betting options and their rules.
In street craps, people usually bet with cash, or sometimes even by trading things. There’s no dealer as players manage their own bets and winnings. The shooter is the main focus, and others bet on whether they will win or lose.
As opposed to that, in a casino, players use chips to place bets on the table. A trained team of casino staff, including dealers, a stickperson, and a boxperson, runs the game. This ensures everything runs smoothly and fairly as per the casino’s rules.
Street craps has fewer betting choices. While you will still find the main “Pass Line” (shooter wins) and “Don’t Pass” (shooter loses) bets, any side bets between players are usually simpler and less structured.
In casino craps, however, there are many more ways to bet, making the game much more exciting. You can place bets like line bets, odds bets, place bets, buy/lay bets, and proposition bets. The special table itself is designed to clearly show and handle all these different betting options.
Street craps thrives on players’ trust. With no formal oversight, friendly interactions prevent disputes. Players bet and negotiate directly against each other, creating a communal energy in intimate settings. Its ease and flexibility make it a popular game among friends.
On the other hand, casino craps tables are energetic, but social interactions are structured. Fairness doesn’t rely on personal trust. Players chat with dealers and cheer for the shooter. The focus is on gameplay and bets, which might develop collective excitement as everyone plays against the house.
The best part about street craps is that you generally need just a few simple things:
Imagine you go for a game of shooting dice or casino craps, but you just don’t know the lingo. Well, you are bound to make mistakes and might even lose your money in the process. Therefore, you must understand all the essential terms. Let’s take a look at them.
Since you are equipped with the basics and the lingo, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to shoot dice.
Step 1: When placing bets, there are various options. The simplest are the “Pass Line” bet (you bet the shooter wins) and the “Don’t Pass Line” bet (you bet the shooter loses). Once comfortable, you can explore other bets like Come, Don’t Come, and Field bets.
Step 2: To ensure a smooth, controlled throw, hold the dice lightly but securely, but don’t squeeze them. For beginners, a simple five-finger grip (holding each die between two fingers) works well.
Step 3: Properly shake the dice before you throw. While not required, many players feel this adds to the thrill of the game.
Step 4: When you throw, aim for the opposite end of the table so the dice hit the wall and bounce back. This makes sure the roll is fair, and it’s a rule in most casinos. Just don’t throw too hard, or the dice might go flying off the table.
Step 5: The game starts with the “Come-out Roll”. Roll a 7 or 11, and “Pass Line” bets win. Roll a 2, 3, or 12 (called craps), and they lose. Any other number becomes the point you need to hit again.
To get an actual picture of how a roll works, here’s a table that clearly explains it:
| First Roll (Come-Out) | Result | What Happens Next |
| 7 or 11 | Win | Shooter wins automatically |
| 2, 3, or 12 | Lose (craps) | Shooter loses round |
| 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 | Point set | Keep rolling to hit that number |
Now that you know how to shoot dice, let’s look at the street etiquette and rules that you should diligently practice while playing.
After you grasp the game, you can learn strategies and techniques to play even better. But remember, even with these, you are not guaranteed to win every time because dice games are all about chance.
Many players heatedly debate dice control. It’s tough to scientifically prove it changes the odds, but many experienced players believe in it. They suggest practising specific grips and throwing techniques to reduce randomness and improve the chances of getting the numbers they want.
For this strategy, hold the dice so specific numbers are facing up before you throw them. The idea is that it might influence the outcome, but whether you can truly do a ‘controlled toss’ in a casino is highly debated.
Betting strategies can make your game more interesting, so it’s key that you understand and practice them. For instance, the “Iron Cross” involves betting on almost every number except seven.
Properly managing your money is the most important aspect when it comes to playing any casino game. You must set a spending limit and stick to it. Don’t try to win back money you have lost, and only play with cash you can afford to lose.
Want to make the most out of the game? Here are a few quick tips that might help.
We truly hope the guide not only helps you know how to shoot dice, but also better understand the game. However, professionals are not made within a day by reading a guide. It’s important that you start practising right away to truly master the game. And most importantly, always remember to gamble responsibly.
Read next:
There is no sure-shot way to make money shooting dice. Despite the much-debated dice control strategy, the game’s randomness ultimately prevents guaranteed long-term profit.
Cheating at shooting dice involves illegal methods that are not just frowned upon, but also forbidden. Instead of getting into trouble, it’s always better to play a clean game rather than cheat.
There is the shooting skill; however, it draws a heated debate as it’s tough to scientifically prove that it changes the odds.
We inform you that this website uses cookies. To consent, click the ‘Agree’ button or continue browsing. To learn more about our privacy policy, click here.
