Craps Don’t Pass Strategy: What Is Don’t Pass Bar?

Craps provides plenty of opportunities for strategic thinking, appealing to both experienced players and those with a curious mind.

If you’ve ever wanted to explore the unique aspects of craps, you’ll find that it’s a game known for its variety of betting choices. Among these, the “don’t pass” strategy offers an option that some players may find intriguing.

In this post, we’ll explore the concept of the “don’t pass” bar, a choice that can offer a different perspective on how the game is played, whether you’re enjoying craps online or at a traditional casino.

What Does Don’t Pass Bar Mean In Craps?

In craps, the term “don’t pass bar” may seem puzzling if you’re new to the game, but it becomes clearer with a bit of understanding.

When you place a “don’t pass” bet, you’re predicting that the shooter won’t succeed with either a 7 or 11 and are instead aiming for a 2 or 3. If the shooter rolls a 12, it’s considered a draw, so you neither win nor lose.

The ‘bar’ in ‘don’t pass bar’ prevents a roll of 12 from resulting in a win for the player, resulting instead in a push or no decision. This rule ensures the casino’s edge on ‘don’t pass’ bets.

This strategic bet may seem counterintuitive initially, as you’re betting against the rest of the table; however, it offers a different perspective on the game that some players find appealing.

Craps Don’t Pass Odds and Payouts

Understanding the odds and payouts involved in the “don’t pass” strategy is crucial for making informed choices when playing craps. This bet is appealing to those who favour slightly better odds compared to the “pass” bet.

When you place a “don’t pass” bet, your goal is for the shooter to lose. Ideally, you’re hoping for a roll of 2 or 3 during the come-out roll, which results in an immediate conclusion for the bet. Conversely, a roll of 7 or 11 means that you lose the round and a roll of 12 leads to what’s known as a “push,” where your bet neither wins nor loses.

Any other number rolled instead of 2, 3, 7, 11 or 12 then becomes the point. Once the point is set, your focus changes.

Now, you’re hoping that the shooter rolls a 7 before hitting the point number again. If a 7 appears first, your bet is successful. The house edge here is 1.36%, making the “don’t pass” bet a considered choice for those looking for a more tactical gameplay experience.

While “don’t pass” bets aren’t associated with large payouts, they offer a more consistent approach, which is why they’re often selected by those who appreciate a steady and thoughtful gaming experience.

Craps Don’t Pass Strategy Explained

The “don’t pass” strategy in craps offers a fascinating alternative to the usual betting approach, appealing to those who enjoy careful planning and thinking differently. Instead of betting on the shooter’s success, you’re choosing to focus on the shooter, not making their point. This approach aligns with statistical patterns that are often overlooked.

This journey begins with the “come-out roll,” where, ideally, you want a total of 2 or 3. Achieving either result concludes the round in your favour. On the other hand, a roll of 7 or 11 results in a loss. If a 12 is rolled, it results in a “push,” meaning your bet remains for the next round.

If the shooter rolls a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, the “point” is set. Your objective now is to see a 7 roll before the point number is repeated, which would result in a successful bet.

This strategy promotes a measured, low-risk approach that aligns with the game’s statistical probabilities, catering to players who favour cautious gameplay.

Is Don’t Pass Better Than Pass?

Choosing between the “don’t pass” and “pass” bets in craps can be an intriguing decision, as each option comes with its own appeal and strategic considerations.

The “pass” bet is a popular choice, especially for those new to craps. This is mainly because it aligns with the shooter’s objective, which allows you to enjoy the shared enjoyment around the table. In this case, a come-out roll of 7 or 11 is advantageous, while 2, 3, or 12 is unfavourable. Once the point is set, the aim is for the shooter to hit that number again before a 7 appears.

The “don’t pass” bet offers an alternative approach for those who prefer a quieter, more individual strategy. Here, you’re effectively betting against the shooter reaching their goal. This choice focuses on achieving a 2 or 3 on the come-out, with a 12 resulting in a push and a 7 or 11 being disadvantageous. When the point is established, your interest is in a 7 appearing first.

Statistically, the “don’t pass” bet features a slightly lower house edge, around 1.36%, compared to a house edge of 1.41% for the “pass” best, providing a different perspective on the game.

Deciding whether “don’t pass” is better depends on your personal approach, so it’s important to consider if you enjoy collective excitement or prefer a more strategic contemplation when selecting your bet.

Always remember to gamble responsibly by setting limits to your playing time, sticking to a strict budget within your means and making use of any safe gambling tools available.

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*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins, etc.) mentioned in relation to this game are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.

**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.