Lay Bet in Craps – A Professional Guide for Players

The lay bet in craps offers a unique way to approach this thrilling casino game, catering to players who prefer betting against the shooter. Often called “dark side” players, these individuals utilize lay bets to capitalize on the statistical advantage of the 7 being the most likely outcome on the dice.

This professional guide delves into the mechanics, strategies, and nuances of lay betting, arming players with the insights they need to make informed decisions at the craps table.

What Lay Bet Is

The lay bet in craps is a wager made against a specific number being rolled before a 7. Unlike place bets, where players bet on a number to appear before a 7, lay bets are the opposite. By placing a lay bet, you’re predicting that the shooter will roll a 7 before hitting the selected number, such as 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10.

This betting option appeals to “dark side” players who enjoy the strategic flexibility of wagering against the shooter’s success. Lay bets differ from traditional bets in that they allow you to target specific numbers with higher probabilities of rolling a 7 instead. While the payout odds for lay bets are lower due to the statistical advantage, they offer consistent value for those looking to minimize risk and capitalize on the house edge.

How Lay Bets Work

Lay bets in craps provide players with a straightforward yet strategic way to bet against the shooter. They are often favored by “dark side” players due to their potential for steady winnings when used correctly. Understanding the mechanics, house edge, and available numbers for lay bets is essential to mastering this type of wager and enhancing your overall craps strategy.

Basic Mechanics

A lay bet craps wager wins if the shooter rolls a 7 before rolling the specific number you’re betting against. This type of bet is essentially the inverse of a place bet, as you’re betting that the chosen number—known as a “point number”—won’t appear before the most statistically common roll of 7. For example, if you place a lay bet against the number 4, you win if the shooter rolls a 7 before rolling a 4.

At most casinos, lay bets can be placed on numbers 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10. These are referred to as the “box numbers” on the craps table. Unlike a pass line bet, which relies on the shooter hitting the point, lay bets capitalize on the higher probability of rolling a 7, offering players a compelling alternative to more traditional craps bets.

Lay Bets House Edge

One of the reasons craps lay bets appeal to seasoned players is their relatively low house edge. Lay bets pay out at true odds, but casinos charge a 5% commission, known as “vigorish,” on winning wagers. This ensures the casino maintains its edge even in a bet that statistically favors the bettor.

Compared to other craps bets, the house edge for lay bets is lower than many options like proposition bets or the pass line bet, making it a popular choice for players who prioritize smarter betting. For instance:

• Lay bets against 4 or 10 have a house edge of around 2.44%.
• Lay bets against 5 or 9 have a house edge of about 3.23%.
• Lay bets against 6 or 8 come with a house edge near 4%.

These percentages highlight the strategic value of lay bets for those seeking better odds in a game where other wagers often carry a higher casino advantage.

Numbers Available for Lay Bets

When placing a lay bet in craps, players have the flexibility to choose from six specific numbers: 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, and 10. These numbers are prominently displayed on the craps table and serve as the foundation for various betting strategies. Each number comes with different odds and payout ratios:

• 4 and 10: With a payout ratio of 1:2, these numbers are statistically less likely to roll than a 7, making them favorable targets for lay bets.
• 5 and 9: These numbers offer a payout ratio of 2:3, balancing risk and reward.
• 6 and 8: With a payout ratio of 5:6, these numbers are rolled more frequently, making them slightly riskier for lay bets.

The choice of which number to lay against depends on your bankroll, risk tolerance, and table dynamics. By focusing on numbers with lower probabilities, lay bets allow players to leverage the odds in their favor while managing risk effectively.

Lay Bets Pros and Cons

Pros

One of the most significant advantages of lay bet craps is the relatively low house edge compared to other bets on the craps table. Lay bets pay out at true odds, which means the payouts accurately reflect the statistical probability of winning.

For instance, lay bets against numbers like 4 or 10 have a house edge as low as 2.44%, while 5 and 9 offer a house edge of 3.23%. These figures are far better than the odds associated with riskier proposition bets or other single-roll wagers.

Another major advantage is the control lay bettors have in selecting the numbers they want to bet against. Players can focus on numbers that statistically roll less frequently, such as 4 and 10, to maximize their chances of winning.

This flexibility allows players to tailor their craps strategy to the table’s dynamics and their risk tolerance. Unlike a pass line bet, which is dependent on the point established during the come-out roll, lay bets give players the freedom to target specific outcomes, adding an element of strategic customization.

Cons

While lay bets have a lower house edge, they are not entirely without cost. Casinos charge a 5% commission, or vigorish, on all winning lay bets, which can significantly impact profitability over time.

For example, if you bet $100 and win, you’ll owe the casino a $5 fee, effectively reducing your net payout. This commission ensures that even bets with better odds still generate revenue for the house. The vig, while small, can add up for players making frequent or high-stakes lay bets.

The commission, combined with the lower payout ratios of lay bets, can reduce overall profitability for players who fail to manage their bankroll carefully. Since payouts for lay bets are inversely proportional to the likelihood of rolling a number, winnings are often smaller than the initial wager.

Lay Bet Payouts and Odds

Understanding how payouts and odds work in lay betting is crucial for maximizing its strategic potential. Lay bets are unique because their payouts are based on true odds, reflecting the statistical likelihood of rolling a 7 before the selected number. However, the inclusion of a 5% commission impacts the overall returns, making it essential for players to grasp the nuances of these wagers.

Understanding Payout Ratios

Lay bet payouts are inversely proportional to the likelihood of rolling a specific number before a 7. The payouts reflect the true odds, adjusted for the likelihood of winning the bet. Here’s how payouts work for the six possible lay numbers:

• 4 and 10: These numbers are the least likely to roll before a 7, so they offer a payout ratio of 1:2. To win $100, you need to wager $200. If you win, the commission is 5% of the $100 winnings, leaving you with a net payout of $95.
• 5 and 9: With a payout ratio of 2:3, you need to wager $150 to win $100. After the 5% commission on the $100 winnings, your net payout is $95.
• 6 and 8: These numbers offer a payout ratio of 5:6, requiring a $120 wager to win $100. Following the 5% commission, your net payout is $95.

This payout structure reflects the statistical probabilities inherent in the game, rewarding players for betting against numbers that are less likely to roll while maintaining the casino’s advantage.

How Commissions Are Calculated

The 5% commission, or vigorish, is applied to all winning lay bets and is calculated based on the potential winnings, not the amount wagered. For example, if you place a lay bet on 4 or 10 to win $100, you must wager $200, and the commission would be 5% of the $100 winnings, resulting in a $5 fee. This ensures the casino maintains its edge while keeping the payouts at true odds.

Here’s how the commission works for each payout ratio:

• 4 and 10: If you bet $100 and win, your payout is $50. The casino charges a 5% vig on your wager amount, so you pay a $5 fee, reducing your net payout to $45.
• 5 and 9: A $100 winning lay bet on these numbers pays $66.67. The 5% vig on the wager amount equals $5, leaving you with a net payout of $61.67.
• 6 and 8: A $100 winning lay bet on these numbers pays $83.33. After deducting the $5 vig, your net payout is $78.33.

This commission structure is a critical factor to consider when placing lay bets. While the vig may seem small, it can significantly impact long-term profitability, especially for players making frequent or high-stakes wagers. For this reason, many experienced players incorporate lay bets as part of a broader strategy rather than relying on them exclusively.

Lay Bet Strategies for Beginners and Advanced Players

Mastering lay bets in craps involves more than just understanding their mechanics—it requires strategic decision-making to maximize your chances of success.

Choosing Numbers to Lay Against

Selecting the right number to lay against is a critical aspect of lay bet craps strategy. Statistically, the numbers 4 and 10 are the least likely to be rolled before a 7, making them popular choices for lay bettors. These numbers offer a 1:2 payout ratio, and their low probability of appearing ensures a better chance of winning. Players seeking to minimize risk often prioritize these numbers to maintain consistent gains.

For players who prefer a balance of risk and reward, laying against 5 or 9 can be a viable alternative. These numbers have a slightly higher likelihood of being rolled, but they also come with a 2:3 payout ratio, offering better returns than 4 and 10. Advanced players may choose to target these numbers depending on the table dynamics and their bankroll.

The numbers 6 and 8 are rolled more frequently than others (aside from 7), making them riskier for lay bets. However, they can still be useful for players who want to diversify their strategy or hedge against other wagers. Observing the table’s trends and the shooter’s performance can help you decide which numbers to target.

Combining with Don’t Pass/Don’t Come Bets

One of the most effective ways to enhance your lay betting strategy is by pairing it with other dark side bets, such as the Don’t Pass or Don’t Come bets. These bets share the same premise of betting against the shooter and can create a balanced approach to gameplay.

For example:

• A Don’t Pass Bet is placed before the come-out roll and wins if the shooter rolls a 2 or 3. If a point is established, you can then place a lay bet against that number to increase your chances of winning. This combination leverages the statistical advantage of the 7 while reducing risk.
• Similarly, a Don’t Come Bet allows you to wager against the next point number established after the come-out roll. Pairing this with a lay bet lets you cover multiple numbers on the table, increasing the odds of a successful round.

This combined strategy works well for advanced players who want to capitalize on the house edge and maintain consistent winnings. However, it’s important to manage your bankroll carefully, as placing multiple bets can increase your exposure to losses.

When to Use Lay Bets

Knowing when to place lay bets is essential for optimizing your craps lay bet strategy. Here are some optimal scenarios:

1. Avoiding High-Risk Rolls
   Lay bets are particularly useful when you want to avoid the volatility of high-risk rolls. For instance, if the table is experiencing a cold streak and shooters are frequently rolling 7s, placing a lay bet against numbers like 4 or 10 can help you capitalize on the trend.
2. Targeting Volatile Outcomes
   If a specific number has been rolled multiple times, the odds of it appearing again before a 7 decrease due to the law of averages. In such cases, laying against that number can be a strategic move. However, be cautious of hot streaks, as they can lead to unexpected losses.
3. Hedging Against Other Bets
   Lay bets can also be used as a hedge against other wagers. For example, if you’ve placed a place bet on one number, laying against a different number can help mitigate potential losses. This approach is particularly useful for advanced players looking to balance their risk portfolio.
4. Exploiting Table Conditions
   Observing the table’s trends is crucial for timing your lay bets. If shooters are consistently failing to hit their point numbers, it may be an ideal time to focus on lay betting. Conversely, if the table is “hot” and shooters are frequently hitting their points, it might be wise to hold off on lay bets.

By knowing what is lay bet in craps and strategically choosing when and how to place lay bets, players can maximize their winnings while minimizing unnecessary risk.

Common Mistakes

While lay bet craps is a strategic option, there are pitfalls players should avoid to ensure consistent success.

• Misunderstanding Payouts: Some players confuse gross payouts with net payouts after the casino’s 5% commission. Always factor in the vigorish to understand your true winnings.
• Overextending Bankroll: Lay bets require higher upfront costs due to their odds, which can deplete your bankroll quickly if not managed carefully. Stick to a budget and avoid chasing losses.

FAQ

What is a lay bet in craps?

A lay bet is a wager that the shooter will roll a 7 before hitting a specific number (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10). It’s a “dark side” strategy that bets against the shooter.

How are lay bet payouts calculated?

Payouts are based on true odds and vary depending on the number: 1:2 for 4 and 10, 2:3 for 5 and 9, and 5:6 for 6 and 8. A 5% commission is deducted from winnings.

Why do lay bets require a commission?

The 5% commission ensures the casino retains its edge even on bets that statistically favor the player. It’s calculated based on the amount wagered, not the payout.

Can I combine lay bets with other craps strategies?

Yes, lay bets can complement strategies like Don’t Pass or Don’t Come, creating a balanced approach and increasing your chances of winning. They’re ideal for “dark side” players seeking consistency.

Are lay bets better than place bets?

Lay bets offer a lower house edge but require a commission, while place bets have higher payouts but worse odds. The choice depends on your strategy and risk tolerance.