True Craps!

Craps Requirements.

It's pretty obvious that in order to play craps, the minimum requirements are to be of legal gambling age, have enough money to make the minimum bet, and be in a casino at an open craps table. If that's enough for you, read no more. If, however, you want to play the entire game and get maximum enjoyment from your table adventures, then read on.

Be prepared! Craps is not a game where you want to stop by for just one bet and leave. You don't need to be a Boy Scout to know that preparation is everything. So here's the list.

* Wear comfy shoes. You may be standing for a couple of hours if everything goes well.

* Come to the table with an empty bladder.

* Know what bets you are going to make and why. Do not 'do what everyone else' is doing. If you want to make your bets based on some condition, make sure you know what that condition is ahead of time. For example, it's common to ask the dealers "What numbers have been hitting?" and bet accordingly. Whatever your method is, and whatever bets you use, don't be wish-washy. This is how the table "chop" will kill you.

* Have an exit strategy. It can be time, or money remaining, or money won. Whatever works for you is ok, but stick to it and know what your exit strategy is ahead of time. For example, if you are ahead $50 at a $5 table, is it time to go? Unless you are pressing your bets, and continue to win at this level, it's time to go. A $100 win for a $10 bettor is pretty darned good. Likewise if you've been at the table for 2 hours, and you're about even, go. Whatever your tolerance level is, know it and adhere to it.

* Know the jargon and know how to ask. If a dealer asks you if your bet is a "two-way" bet you'd better know what that is. If you don't make sure you ask him or her. No one will think less of you for asking from time to time. Before you play you should at least be familiar with "Pass", "Don't Pass", and "Odds bets". Don't worry about "hoppers", "world bets", and all other sorts of stuff. As you progress in the game, you will be able to absord more of the craps-speak.

* Have a player card. If the casino you are playing in does not have cards for the table games, make sure when you buy in that you ask to be rated. Always hand the dealer or boxman your player card along with your buy in so they can make sure you are compensated for all your table action.

* Be aware of your chip rack. Sadly, it is a fact that there are scumbag thieves out there. They will draw your attention elsewhere, and remove your chips from your rack right in front of you. You must be aware that this can happen in order to prevent it.

* When you are served a drink, make sure you have an appropriate denomination chip with which to pay the cocktail waitress. Although they are 'free' drinks, it is expected that you will leave at least a nominal amount with the waitress for bringing it to you. In come casinos, the waitress is actually charged for each drink delivered. Don't expect totally free service.

* After you've played a couple sessions of craps, go buy another book on craps. Hopefully you have already done some reading. It won't hurt to do some more. One book will cost less than making a dumb mistake.

* Have fun. This may sound dumb, but you should be required to have fun at the craps table. If it's not fun, leave. Casino gaming, especially craps ought to be fun, challenging, mind-scrubbing, and refreshing. When it isn't it's time to leave.

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