Field Bet in Craps

What Is a Field Bet in Craps

A field bet in craps is a single-roll wager where you win if the shooter rolls specific numbers: 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, or 12. Any other result means you lose instantly. This bet covers a “field” of numbers on the layout, hence the name. It’s straightforward and often appeals to beginners because there’s no need to remember complex rules or betting sequences 👇

How the Field Bet Works

When you place a field bet, you are essentially betting that the next roll will be one of the winning numbers.

• If the roll lands on 5, 6, 7, or 8 — you lose.
• If it’s 2 or 12 — you usually get a higher payout.
• All other winning numbers pay even money unless the table specifies otherwise.

🎯 This bet resolves in a single roll, so it’s all about quick action. 

One-Roll Bet Nature of the Field

The field bet is a one-roll wager. This means it wins or loses on the very next roll and does not carry over to future rolls. If you win, you’ll need to place a new bet to play again.

Field Bet Payouts

Understanding the craps field bet payout structure is essential before you put chips down. While most casinos use similar craps rules, there can be small but important differences 👇

Standard Payouts (1:1 and 2:1)

In many casinos, winning numbers on the field bet (3, 4, 9, 10, 11) pay even money (1:1).
The numbers 2 and 12 often pay double (2:1) or even more, depending on the house rules.

Typical Field Bet Payouts 👇

Special Payouts for 2 and 12

Casinos often increase payouts on 2 and/or 12 to make the bet more appealing. 

📌For example:

• 2 might pay 3:1 instead of 2:1.
• 12 could also pay 3:1 or even 4:1 in rare cases.

These higher payouts don’t lower the house edge much, but they can make hitting these numbers exciting. 

Variations in Payout Rules Across Casinos

Rules aren’t always the same 👇

• Some casinos give higher payout only on 12, keeping 2 at 2:1.
• Others reverse it or offer the same boost for both numbers.
• Online craps games might allow you to check payout rules before you start, which is smart to do.

Pros and Cons of the Field Bet

Like any wager in craps, the field bet has its strengths and weaknesses. Knowing them helps you decide when to use it and when to avoid it.

Field Bet Pros vs Cons 👇

Pros

• Quick action and immediate results – You know if you’ve won or lost after just one roll.
• Simple to understand – Even beginners can follow the rules without confusion.
• Potential for higher payout on specific numbers – Hitting 2 or 12 can bring a bigger reward.

Cons

• High house edge – The house edge on field bet craps can range from about 5% to over 7%, depending on payouts.
• One-roll risk with no carryover – Lose once and your bet is gone immediately.
• Not a long-term profitable bet – Better suited for short bursts of play than for grinding out profits.

Field Bet Strategy in Craps

A solid craps field bet craps strategy isn’t about guaranteeing wins — it’s about using the wager smartly to manage risk and enjoy the game.

When to Use the Field Bet

The field bet in craps works best when you want:

• A quick, one-roll thrill.
• To break up slower betting patterns.
• To add variety to your play without committing to multi-roll bets.

⚠️ It’s not meant for long sessions but can be fun in short bursts.

Combining Field Bets With Other Bets

Many players mix field bets with Pass Line or Come bets. This spreads your action and can offset losses if the dice go against you.

📌 Example combo:

1. Place your main bet on the Pass Line.
2. Add a small field bet for one roll.
3. If the field wins, you can reinvest or pocket the profit.

Avoiding Overuse of Field Bets

Placing this wager too often can drain your bankroll because the house edge works against you over time. Use it sparingly — perhaps once every few rolls instead of every time.

Bankroll Considerations

• Keep your field bet craps amounts small — usually no more than 5–10% of your bankroll.
• Treat it as a side wager, not your main betting method.
• Avoid chasing losses with bigger field bets — that’s a fast way to run out of chips.

Field Bet vs Other One-Roll Bets

Not all one-roll bets are created equal. Comparing the field bet to other quick wagers can help you decide where to place your chips.

Field Bet vs Any Seven

• Any Seven wins only if a 7 is rolled.
• The payout is 4:1, but the odds of winning are low (only 6 out of 36 combinations).
• The house edge is around 16.67%, making it riskier than the field.

💡 In contrast, the field bet craps odds give you more winning numbers, though the payout is usually smaller.

Field Bet vs Any Craps

• Any Craps wins if 2, 3, or 12 is rolled.
• Pays 7:1, but with only 4 winning combinations out of 36.
• The house edge is about 11.11%, still higher than most field bets.

💡 The field covers more numbers, so wins happen more often — but with lower average payouts.

Which Bet Is Better for Recreational Players

For casual play, the field bet often feels more engaging because:

• More numbers win.
• The bet is easy to understand.
• It delivers quick excitement without extreme volatility.

Comparing One-Roll Bets 👇

Common Mistakes With Field Bets

Even though the field bet looks simple, players often make errors that cost them chips 👇

Betting Too Often Without a Plan

👉 Placing the field bet on every roll may seem fun, but it’s a fast way to lose money. The house edge will slowly grind down your bankroll if you keep betting without breaks.

Ignoring the House Edge

👉 Some players think the field bet odds in craps are better than they really are.
In reality, losing numbers outnumber winning ones, and the house edge on field bet craps is still significant. Ignoring this fact can lead to unrealistic expectations.

Misunderstanding Payout Rules

👉 Not all tables pay the same on 2 and 12. Some pay 2:1, others 3:1 or more. If you don’t check the payout sign before betting, you might be disappointed when your “big win” pays less than expected.

Tips for Playing the Field in Craps

Using field bets wisely can make your session more enjoyable while limiting losses.

Use as a Side Bet, Not a Main Bet

☝️ The field bet in craps works best as a supplementary wager. Place it alongside your main bets like Pass Line or Come bets to add excitement without risking your core bankroll.

Look for Tables With Better Payouts on 12

☝️ Some casinos offer 3:1 or even higher payouts on 12. Targeting these tables improves your field bet craps odds slightly and makes hitting the high numbers more rewarding.

Keep Field Bets Small to Reduce Risk

• Limit your field bet to a small portion of your bankroll.
• Avoid chasing losses by increasing bet size.
• Small, consistent wagers reduce the impact of the house edge and keep your session longer.