‘Don’t Come Bet’ Meaning | Casino & Gambling Terms Explained

he “Don’t Come Bet” is a fundamental wager in the game of craps, one of the most dynamic and communal games found in a casino. This bet is similar to the “Don’t Pass Bet,” but it is made after the point is established. It’s a bet against the shooter, hoping that they will roll a seven before repeating the point number. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the “Don’t Come Bet”:

Understanding the Game of Craps

Before delving into the specifics of the “Don’t Come Bet,” it’s essential to understand the basic flow of craps. Craps is played in rounds, with the first roll of a new round called the “come-out roll.” The shooter, the player rolling the dice, aims to establish a point by rolling a 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, or 10. If the shooter rolls a 2, 3, or 12 on the come-out roll, it’s called “crapping out.”

The Don’t Come Bet Explained

• Placement: After the point is established, players can make a “Don’t Come Bet” by placing their chips in the designated “Don’t Come” area of the craps table.
• Winning and Losing Conditions: If the shooter rolls a 2 or 3 after a “Don’t Come Bet” is placed, the bet wins. A roll of 7 before the point number results in a win, while a roll of the point number before a 7 results in a loss. A roll of 12 results in a “push,” and the player’s bet is returned.
• Odds and Payouts: The “Don’t Come Bet” pays even money, reflecting its near 50/50 chance of winning. The house edge on this bet is typically around 1.40%, making it one of the more favorable bets for players in terms of casino advantage.

Strategy and Considerations

• Betting Against the Shooter: The “Don’t Come Bet” is often seen as betting against the table or the shooter, which can be frowned upon by other players who are betting with the shooter.
• Laying Odds: Players can also “lay odds” on the “Don’t Come Bet” once a point is established. This means placing additional money behind the bet, which pays out at true odds and reduces the overall house edge on the money wagered.
• Table Dynamics: The social aspect of craps means that betting patterns can influence the atmosphere at the table. “Don’t Come” bettors may prefer to play at less crowded tables to avoid any potential friction with other players.

The Role of the “Don’t Come Bet” in Craps Strategy

• Defensive Play: The “Don’t Come Bet” is considered a more conservative or defensive play, as it capitalizes on the higher probability of rolling a 7, which is the most common outcome with two dice.
• Combining Bets: Experienced players might combine the “Don’t Come Bet” with other wagers to hedge their bets and cover more potential outcomes.
• Bankroll Management: Like any bet in craps, managing one’s bankroll and understanding the odds is crucial to long-term play.