Roulette 1st and 3rd Column Strategy Explained

Ever wondered about the different strategies that players bring to the roulette table? Well, in this blog post, we’re going to discuss the 1st and 3rd column strategy. 

In roulette, the betting table (layout) is divided into three columns. This strategy involves placing bets on the 1st and 3rd columns in the same round. The idea is to cover more numbers on the wheel, while also placing the bets in a way that can allow for a payout if one wins. 

It’s a straightforward strategy that even beginners can follow. We’ll break down how this strategy works, its advantages, and things to watch out for. So, let’s dive in and get you familiar with this interesting roulette strategy. 

What Is a Column Bet in Roulette?

A column bet in roulette is a type of outside bet placed on one of the three vertical columns of numbers on the betting table. 

Each column contains 12 numbers. For example, the 1st column includes numbers 1, 4, 7, and so on, up to 34. The 2nd column has numbers 2, 5, 8, up to 35, and the 3rd column includes numbers 3, 6, 9, up to 36. 

To place a column bet, you simply place your chips on the ‘2 to 1’ box at the end of the chosen column. If a number from your chosen column wins, you get paid 2 to 1. This means you’ll receive £2 for every £1 you bet, plus you receive your original bet back. 

Column bets are popular because they cover a broad range of numbers, making your chances of winning higher compared to the inside bets. 

In the next section, we’ll go into more detail about how the 1st and 3rd column strategy specifically works. 

What Is The 1st and 3rd Column Roulette Strategy?

The 1st and 3rd column roulette strategy involves placing equal bets on both the 1st and 3rd columns of numbers on the betting table. 

If you use this strategy, you are covering most numbers on the roulette wheel, except for those in the middle column and the zero (and double zero in American roulette). 

Each column contains 12 numbers. So, by betting on the 1st and 3rd columns, you cover a total of 24 numbers out of 37 on a European wheel or 38 on an American wheel. The idea is to increase your chances of hitting a winning number, as you have the majority of the numbers covered. 

If a number in either the 1st or 3rd column wins, you get paid out at odds of 2 to 1. However, keep in mind that only one can win in a round, so if you do win, you lose the bet placed on the other column. 

In the next section, we’ll discuss some tips and considerations to keep in mind if using this strategy. 

Roulette Column Payouts

If you place a column bet in roulette, you are wagering on one of the three columns of numbers on the betting table. If the ball lands on a number in your chosen column, you win. 

Each winning column bet pays out at odds of 2 to 1. This means for every £1 you bet, you will win £2, plus you get your original stake back. 

For instance, if you place a £5 bet on a column and one of its numbers hits, you’ll receive £10 in winnings plus your initial £5 bet. 

It’s important to remember that while this bet covers 12 numbers, it does not cover the entire table. If the ball lands on a number in one of the other two columns, or the zero (and double zero in American roulette), a loss will result. 

Understanding these payouts can help you make more informed decisions and manage your bets better so that you can hopefully enjoy your roulette experience more responsibly. 

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How Many Columns Can You Bet On In Roulette?

In roulette, you can bet on any of the three columns on the betting table. But you’re not limited to just one column; you can place bets on two or even all three columns if you choose. 

Each column covers 12 numbers. So, betting on multiple columns increases the number of numbers you are covering. For example, if you bet on the 1st and 3rd columns, you cover 24 numbers out of 37 on a European wheel or out of 38 on an American wheel. 

It’s important to remember that while betting on multiple columns offers more opportunity of landing a win by covering more numbers, it also means placing more bets and, therefore, higher overall stakes. Also, it’s crucial to bear in mind that only one column bet can win at a time since there is no crossover of numbers between them. 

Balancing the number of columns you bet on with your budget and risk tolerance is key to enjoying roulette responsibly. 

Is The 1st and 3rd Column Strategy Profitable?

When it comes to profitability, it’s important to understand that no strategy can guarantee wins in roulette. Each spin of the wheel is an independent event with random and unpredictable outcomes. 

The 1st and 3rd column strategy can help you to cover more of the wheel since you cover 24 out of the 37 numbers on a European wheel or 38 on an American wheel. However, this does not change the house edge. 

The house edge in European roulette is 2.7%, while in American roulette, it is 5.26%. This means that over time, the casino is expected to make £2.70 or £5.26 for every £100 wagered on average, respectively. This house edge remains fixed regardless of the strategy used. 

So, while the 1st and 3rd column strategy can make the game more engaging and offer a better chance of landing a win than inside bets, it doesn’t change the inherent odds of the game. 

Always remember to gamble responsibly, set a budget, and be aware that any strategy has limitations. So, enjoy the game for what it is: a random game of chance. 

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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.