Welcome to the world of craps! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, it’s essential to understand the craps table layout and how it can affect your gameplay.
In this guide, we’ll dive deeply into the craps table layout, including the key betting areas, the differences between regular and crapless tables, and the role of dealers and floor staff.
We’ll also review proper table etiquette to help you feel comfortable and confident.
Let’s dive right in!
The Craps Table Explained
The craps table is a large, rectangular surface with several marked areas for betting.
These betting areas are organized into 2 main sections: the side and center sections.
The side sections are on either end of the table, while the center section runs along the middle.
Let’s take a closer look at each of these sections.
Key Betting Areas on the Craps Table Layout Explained
One of the most important things to understand about the craps table layout is the various betting areas. You’ll place your chips to make a wager in these areas. You can learn more about the game from our how to play craps guide.
Here are the key betting areas you’ll need to know:
Pass Line
This is an extended, narrow betting area located at the center of the table. To make a pass line bet, you’ll place your chips on the pass line area.
This is a bet that the shooter (the person rolling the dice) will roll a 7 or 11 on the come-out roll or that they’ll roll their point number and then roll a 7 before rolling their point number again.
Don’t Pass Line
This is another extended, narrow betting area located at the center of the table, but it’s on the opposite side of the pass line.
You’ll place your chips on the don’t pass line area to make a don’t pass line bet.
This is a bet that the shooter will roll a 2, 3, or 12 on the come-out roll (called “craps”) or that they’ll roll their point number and then roll a 7 before rolling their point number again.
Come Bet
This is a small, circular betting area located near the pass line. To make a come bet, place your chips on the come area.
This is a bet that the next roll will be a 7 or 11 or that the shooter will roll their point number and then roll a 7 before rolling their point number again.
Don’t Come
This small, circular betting area is located near the don’t pass line. You’ll place your chips on the don’t come area to make a don’t come bet.
This is a bet that the next roll will be a 2, 3, or 12, or that the shooter will roll their point number and then roll a 7 before rolling their point number again.
Field
This is a large, square betting area located at the center of the table. To make a field bet, you’ll place your chips on the field area.
This is a bet that the next roll will be a 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12.
Place Bets
These are small, circular betting areas near the table’s centre.
To make a place bet, you’ll place your chips on the area corresponding to the number you want to bet on (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10). This is a bet that the shooter will roll the chosen number before rolling a 7.
Side and Center Sections
The craps table has two identical side sections, each consisting of a player area and a dealer area. These sections are designed to make it easy for you to place bets like Pass Line, Field and Come without any assistance from the dealer.
Some tables may also include Big 6 and Big 8 bets in the player area of the side betting section.
You might be wondering why the Big 6 and Big 8 bets aren’t as common on craps tables. Well, that’s because they have a rather high house edge, making them riskier options for players.
As a result, many casinos choose to leave them out of their craps tables.
These bets are often referred to as “self-service bets” because you can place them on your own, without the help of a dealer. To make a bet in any of these areas, simply put your chips on the appropriate section.
When you win a Pass, Don’t Pass, or Field bet, the dealer will place your winnings beside your initial bet.
Now, here’s a friendly tip: Be sure to keep an eye on the game’s fast pace and remove your chips from the table after you win. If you don’t, the dealer may assume you’re doubling your original stake by adding your winnings to it.
So, if that’s not your intention, remember to pick up your chips and enjoy the thrill of the game!
Crapless Craps Table vs Regular Craps Table
In addition to the traditional craps table layout, you may also come across a variation called a crapless table.
As the name suggests, a crapless table does not have the craps numbers (2, 3, and 12) on the come-out roll.
This means that if the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12 on the come-out roll, it’s not considered craps, and the game continues.
While this may seem like a more favorable option for players, keep in mind that the odds on a crapless table are generally worse than on a regular table.
This is because the shooter has a higher chance of making a point number, which means that the don’t pass and don’t come bets are less likely to win.
Dealers and Floor Staff
When you’re playing craps, you’ll be interacting with a team of dealers and floor staff.
The dealers handle the dice, pay out winning bets, and collect losing bets. They’ll also assist players with any questions or concerns they may have.
The floor staff includes:
- The stickman is responsible for controlling the pace of the game and announcing the rolls
- The boxman is accountable for overseeing the dealers and maintaining the integrity of the game.
It’s important to remember that the dealers and floor staff are there to help you have a positive and enjoyable craps experience.
Be respectful and polite, and follow their instructions when placing bets or handling chips.
Proper Way to Act at the Craps Table – Table Etiquette
In addition to interacting with the dealers and floor staff, it’s essential to follow proper table etiquette when playing craps.
Here are a few tips to help you navigate the craps board with confidence:
- Be mindful of your surroundings. The craps table can get crowded and fast-paced, so be aware of your surroundings and try not to get in the way of other players.
- Follow the rules of the game. Make sure you understand the rules of craps before you start playing, and follow them carefully. If you need help playing a particular bet, ask a dealer or floor staff member for assistance.
- Refrain from handling the dice with your bare hands. It would be best if you only touched the dice with your fingers, not your palms or other parts of your hands. This is to prevent any tampering with the dice.
- Don’t blow on the dice. Blowing on the dice is considered bad luck, so avoid this behavior.
- Use appropriate language. The craps table can be a lively and energetic place, but it’s important to watch your language and avoid using inappropriate or offensive words.
- Be patient. Craps can be a complex game, and it may take some time for new players to understand all of the rules and betting options
- Don’t be discouraged if you make mistakes or feel overwhelmed at first. Take your time and ask for help if you need it.
- Tips are appreciated. If you have a good experience at the craps table and want to show appreciation, you can tip the dealers and floor staff. This is not required, but it’s a nice gesture and helps to create a positive atmosphere at the table.
Final Thoughts
The craps table layout can seem intimidating at first, but with some knowledge and practice using our simulator, you’ll be able to navigate it easily.
Remember to pay attention to the key betting areas, master the odds and payouts, understand the differences between regular and crapless tables, and follow proper etiquette.
With a little patience, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a fun and exciting game of craps.
