What is a High Low Bet in Craps?
A high low bet in craps is a proposition bet that involves predicting whether the next roll of the dice will result in a high 12 or a low 2. The bet is typically made on a single roll of the dice, and it has a relatively high house edge compared to other bets in the game.
How to Place a High Low Bet
Remember, the high low bet is a one-roll bet, meaning it’s resolved after a single roll of the dice. You must place your bet again to continue playing the high low bet on subsequent rolls. To place a high low bet in craps, follow these steps:
- Find a craps table that offers high low bets. Not all craps tables have this option, so you may need to look around or ask the dealer if they accept high low bets.
- Wait for the shooter to establish a point. A point is a number that the shooter needs to roll again before rolling a 7 to win the pass line bet. You cannot place a high low bet on the come-out roll, the first roll of a new round.
- Place your chips on the high low betting area on the table layout. This is usually marked with the words “HI LO” or “2 12”. You can bet any amount that is within the table limits, but keep in mind that this is a risky bet with a low probability of winning and a high house edge of 13.89%.
- Watch the dice roll and hope for a 2 or a 12. If the dice show either of these numbers, you win your bet and get paid 15 to 1. This means that for every dollar you bet, you win $15. If the dice show any other number, you lose your bet, and the dealer takes your chips.
- Repeat the process for each roll until you decide to stop or run out of money. You can place a high low bet on any roll after the come-out roll, as long as the table accepts it. However, you should be aware that this is a very volatile bet that can deplete your bankroll quickly if you are not lucky.
High Low Bet Payouts
A high low bet in craps is a wager that the next roll of the dice will be either a 2 or a 12. This bet pays 15 to 1 if it wins, but has a low probability of success, as there is only one way to roll a 2 or a 12 out of 36 possible combinations. The house edge on this bet is 13.89%, which means that for every $100 wagered, the player can expect to lose $13.89 on average. This bet is also known as a horn bet, as it covers the four numbers on the corners of the craps layout: 2, 3, 11, and 12.
However, a horn bet requires four units of betting, one for each number, while a high low bet requires only one unit. A high low bet is not a very popular or profitable option for craps players, as it has a high risk and a low reward. It is usually made by beginners who are attracted by the high payout, or by experienced players who are looking for some excitement and variety in their game.
High Low Bet Strategies
When it comes to high low bets in craps, it’s important to note that they are considered proposition bets with higher house edges. However, if you’re interested in playing and want to explore strategies, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Start with Online Craps
It’s recommended to start by playing online craps before venturing into land-based casinos. Online platforms provide a comfortable environment where you can learn the rules, understand the flow of the game, and test out different betting strategies without the pressure of a live setting.
Set a Budget
Before playing any casino game, including craps, it’s crucial to establish and stick to a budget. High low bets, like other proposition bets, tend to have lower odds of winning, so it’s important to manage your bankroll wisely and avoid chasing losses.
Combine With Other Bets
One approach some players take with high low bets in craps is to combine them with other bets. For example, you might place a high low bet while also making a pass line bet or a come bet. This strategy allows you a chance at a higher payout while also taking advantage of bets with better odds, reducing your overall risk.
Consider Betting Patterns
Some players incorporate betting patterns into their strategies for high low bets. These patterns can involve adjusting your bet size based on previous outcomes. For instance, you might increase your bet after a win and decrease it after a loss. While betting patterns can be fun to experiment with, they don’t guarantee success and should be used cautiously.
Be Mindful of the House Edge
Proposition bets, including high low bets, have higher house edges compared to the main bets in craps. It’s essential to be aware of this and understand that the odds are generally against you in the long run. Therefore, it’s advisable to approach high low bet in craps with moderation and not solely rely on them as a primary strategy.
