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Mastering the "Don't Come Bet" in Craps – A Canadian Player’s Guide

Craps is fast, loud, and full of action. But not all that noise points to smart play. While most players gravitate toward the Pass Line and cheer on the shooter, some prefer to take the quiet path: the Don’t Come bet. A Don’t Come bet is a wager that the shooter won’t make their point. It functions like a Don’t Pass bet but is placed after the come-out roll.

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In addition to the basic pass and don't pass wagers, other bets add excitement and variety to the game, allowing for different outcomes on every roll and adding strategic layers for players to engage with.

This guide breaks down how Don’t Come bets work, when to use them, and why they deserve a place in your craps arsenal. Whether you’re skeptical or already a fan of “dark side” play, understanding this approach adds depth to your game.

Foundations of Craps Betting

Craps may look chaotic at first, but that’s not the case once you understand the layout. The table is divided into clear zones that each support different types of bets. Most of the action centres around the Pass Line, Don’t Pass bar, Come area, and the Field. Once a point is established, players also use the numbered boxes across the top of the layout to place odds or side bets.

Understanding the basic terms helps make sense of the flow. The Pass Line is the standard bet made before the come-out roll, where players win if the shooter rolls a 7 or 11 and lose on 2, 3, or 12. The Don’t Pass is the opposite. You win on 2 or 3, lose on 7 or 11, and push on 12. Once a point is set, each bet follows a different path to resolution. The first roll is crucial as it determines the initial outcome for these bets.

The Don’t Come bet works just like the Don’t Pass, but it’s placed after the come-out roll. It’s a useful option for joining mid-round or building multiple bets across different point numbers. The core distinction is timing: Don’t Pass is made before the point, Don’t Come after. Despite its value, many players avoid it due to the perception that it’s “betting wrong,” a belief rooted more in table culture than in strategy. A Don't Come bet operates in the same way as a Don't Pass bet.

These core bets also differ in their statistical edge. The house edge on the Pass Line and Come bet is about 1.41%, while the Don’t Pass and Don’t Come edge is slightly lower at 1.36%. This tiny difference can matter over time, especially when combined with odds bets that carry no house edge at all. Most casinos provide different payout structures for various bets, which can affect your overall strategy.

Developing a Don’t Come Strategy

This section outlines how to balance odds, manage your bankroll, and minimize the house edge over time. Adding odds can lead to a zero house edge on those bets, making them more favorable for players.

When placing a Don’t Come bet, it’s important to understand the conditions under which the bet can lose. A Don’t Come bet loses immediately if a 7 or 11 is rolled on the come out roll. Additionally, once a point is established, the bet loses if the point number is rolled again before a 7. Understanding these conditions can help you make more informed decisions and manage your bets effectively.

Flat Betting vs. Odds

There are two primary ways to approach Don’t Come bets: sticking with flat wagers or adding odds once a point is set. Flat betting means placing the same amount on the Don’t Come line without any odds behind it. It offers simplicity and stable risk but limits long-term profitability.

Adding odds increases your potential returns. Since odds bets have no house edge, they boost your overall value, especially when the point is 4 or 10. Players can place additional bets in multiples of their original bet after a point has been established, which strategically reduces the overall house edge and enhances potential winnings.

When to Lay Odds

Laying odds behind a Don’t Come bet can improve payout efficiency. But it’s not always necessary to do it on every point. Free odds bets allow for true odds payouts without a house edge, significantly lowering the overall house edge on the total bet. Many players take a selective approach:

  • Always lay odds on 4 and 10
  • Sometimes lay on 5 or 9
  • Rarely lay on 6 or 8 due to smaller gains

Most tables set maximum odds between 3x and 5x the flat bet. Before committing, make sure you know the house rules.

Bankroll Tips for Conservative Play

A consistent and disciplined approach to bankroll management is key when using Don’t Come bets. Managing your money effectively is crucial to maintaining control over your bankroll. Here are a few ways to keep control:

  • Use a stable unit size for flat bets
  • Cap odds at 2x or 3x to manage exposure
  • Avoid increasing your bets to try to win back losses
  • Set a clear stop-loss before your session begins

Progression Plans

Some players use betting progressions to press their advantage during winning streaks or manage risk during losses. Some betting progressions rely on rolling the same number multiple times to maximize winnings. Common approaches include:

  • Positive Progression: Increase flat bets by one unit after each win
  • Reset On Loss: Return to your base bet after a loss
  • Fixed Betting: Stick to one consistent size, no matter the outcome

Advanced Don’t Come Tactics

Once you’re comfortable with the basics of Don’t Come betting, there are several ways to deepen your approach. Understanding different games and their mechanics can enhance your overall strategy. These tactics focus on efficiency, long-term planning, and reducing exposure to short-term swings.

One advanced tactic is to bet against specific point numbers. Knowing how the point number impacts win/loss scenarios for come and don't come bets after a point has been established is crucial. This knowledge allows you to make more informed bets and potentially increase your chances of winning.

Combining with Other Dark Side Bets

Don’t Come betting pairs naturally with other dark side plays, like the Don’t Pass and Lay bets. Using a mix can help spread risk and allow you to build separate positions across multiple points. Combining Don’t Come bets with other dark side bets can also maximize the strategic advantages of an odds bet. For example:

  • Start with a Don’t Pass bet on the come-out roll
  • Add Don’t Come bets after a point is set
  • Use Lay bets strategically on high-risk numbers like 4 or 10

This approach creates layered opportunities where multiple wagers can benefit from the same 7-out.

Timing Multiple Don’t Come Bets

Placing several Don’t Come bets in the same round can improve your edge, but timing matters. Some players stagger their entries to avoid exposure to back-to-back 11s or early points. Timing multiple Don’t Come bets can be as crucial as timing pass bets to manage exposure effectively.

Best practices include:

  • Waiting one or two rolls between Don’t Come entries
  • Focusing on shooter trends and pacing
  • Avoiding too many overlapping points, which increases exposure if the shooter gets hot

The goal is to manage variance while using the statistical strength of betting against point numbers to your advantage.

Setting Win Goals and Loss Limits

To stay disciplined over long sessions, define your exit points in advance. This helps you lock in profits and avoid chasing losses. Setting a stop-loss limit is crucial to prevent losing more than you can afford.

Consider:

  • A daily win goal based on 15% to 25% of your starting bankroll
  • A stop-loss limit that cuts play before tilt or fatigue takes over
  • Pre-set session lengths to stay focused and avoid unnecessary risk

Practical Application and Real Table Situations

Knowing the mechanics of Don’t Come bets is only part of the equation. Understanding which outcomes are 'losing numbers' can help you make more informed bets. Applying them effectively in live or online settings takes a different kind of awareness. This section covers timing, social considerations, and how to adapt your strategy to different playing environments.

The significance of dice rolls cannot be overstated. For instance, if a point number is rolled, it must be rolled again before a seven for the bet to win. Conversely, certain bets win or lose based on the number rolled before a seven. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for making strategic decisions at the table.

Timing and Table Awareness

Choosing when to enter or exit a round can make a noticeable difference. A fresh shooter or a table coming off a long roll might present a good opening. The timing of Don’t Come bets is almost the opposite of Pass Line bets, requiring different strategic considerations. If the table is choppy, you can stagger your Don’t Come bets to spread risk. Avoid jumping in blindly during extended hot streaks, as this can expose you to multiple quick losses.

Social Considerations and Etiquette

Playing the Don’t Come bet in a live setting sometimes draws unwanted attention. Some players view it as going against the group, especially those who prefer pass line bets. To keep things smooth, stay quiet when collecting wins, let the dealers manage your odds placement, and avoid commenting on others’ plays. Being discreet is the easiest way to avoid friction and focus on your own game.

Online vs. Live Play

The strategy itself does not change online, but the experience does. Online craps offers faster action and no social pressure, which can help you stick to your plan. Live tables provide a more immersive feel but may come with higher emotional swings and more distractions. Player bets can vary significantly between online and live play, affecting the overall experience. Choose the format that supports your discipline and focus.

FAQs

Below are some commonly asked questions related to the Don’t Come strategy in craps:

Understanding different craps wagers can enhance your overall strategy.

In craps, there are various types of bets you can place, including multi roll bets, which may take more than one roll to resolve. These multi roll bets often come with a specific commission structure. Additionally, Come and Don't Come bets are popular craps wagers that players can make during different phases of the game. Knowing when and how to use these bets can significantly impact your gameplay and maximize your wins.

Is the Don’t Come bet available in all casinos?

Yes, the Don’t Come bet is a standard option at most casinos that offer craps. However, table layouts and minimums may vary, so it’s always good to confirm with the dealer. Additionally, different casinos have varying payout structures, and it’s important to know how bets are paid.

How is a Don’t Come point established?

After placing a Don’t Come bet, the next roll determines the point. If the roll is a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10, that number becomes your point. Your bet then moves to the corresponding box on the layout.

Can you place odds on Don’t Come bets?

You can lay odds behind a Don’t Come bet once a point is established. This bet pays true odds and carries no house edge. Placing odds on Don’t Come bets is similar to other line bets in terms of strategy.

What is the house edge on a Don’t Come bet?

The house edge on a flat Don’t Come bet is approximately 1.36%. Adding odds reduces the overall edge on your total wager. In contrast, proposition bets typically have a higher house edge, making them riskier compared to Don’t Come bets.

Do other players dislike Don’t Come bettors?

Sometimes. Betting against the shooter can draw attention, especially at hot tables. Some players may prefer multiple come bets over Don’t Come bets, affecting the social dynamics at the table. That said, most seasoned players respect any strategy that’s mathematically sound.

A conservative starting point is 40 to 50 units of your base bet. This gives you enough room to manage short-term swings, especially if you’re laying odds. Combining Don’t Come bets with a place bet can be a strategic approach to managing your bankroll.

Can I combine Don’t Come with Place bets?

Yes, although combining Don’t Come with Place bets means mixing opposite strategies. It can be done, but the reasoning behind each bet should be clear and intentional. Combining Don’t Come with Place bets can be done once a point has been established, allowing for strategic betting during this phase.

What’s the biggest mistake Don’t Come bettors make?

Chasing losses or increasing bet sizes without a clear plan can lead to more lost bets, highlighting the importance of discipline. Discipline and consistency matter more than reacting to short-term outcomes.