Craps Hardways Bets Explained – What They Are, How They Work, & Tips to Maximize Your Wins

High risk with high rewards. That’s what craps players can expect hitting on hardway bets at the craps table. Craps hardways refer to rolling doubles, such as 2-2, 3-3, and 4-4 for premium payouts.

These can be fun wagers that have players rooting for certain results on the dice – cashing in when those hardways are thrown for some real excitement. For those who aren’t used to this bet at the table, keep reading to learn more about hardways in craps and how they work.

What Are Hardways Bets in Craps?

The hardway bets in craps have players betting on certain numbers – 4, 6, 8, or 10. However, you’re betting that these show up in the “hardest” way – doubles of 2-2, 3-3, 4-4, and 5-5. In other words, the same numbers appear on both dice.

Landing these numbers in other ways, such as 3+1 for a 4, is referred to as the “easy” way because there are more of these combinations. The hardway bets are located in the center of the table among the proposition bets. However, these wagers remain active until the shooter sevens out or makes the number the easy way first, making them unique compared to other one-roll proposition bets.

How to Place Hardways Bets

Placing a hardway is an easy process. Here’s a look at how to make that happen.

• Step 1 – Locate the hardways section in the center of the craps table.
• Step 2 – “Place” chips on the number you believe will roll as a pair. It’s important to note that this usually means dropping or tossing your chips toward the center of the table where the stickman will place your bets. Call out your wager so the stickman knows what bet you are making and try not to launch your chips to the other end of the table, instead trying to get them somewhat close to the wager you’d like to make as possible.
• Step 3 – Monitor rolls until the bet wins or loses. If the hardway hits, the dealer will pay you. If the shooter rolls a seven or the easy version of the number, the bet is a loser.

Check out the craps layout below to locate the hardways bets in the center of the table.

Hardways Odds and Payouts

As noted, players earn premium payouts for hitting the craps hardways, but these also come with a hefty house edge. Here’s a quick look at the odds versus the casino advantage in landing them.

Numbers	Payout odds	House edge
6 and 8	7 to 1	9.09%
4 and 10	9 to 1	11.11%

The probabilities of rolling hardway numbers are lower compared to their easy-way counterparts because there is only one way to roll these hardway combinations.

Strategies for Playing Hardways

Obviously players face a heavy house edge when betting on the hardways, so those who are more conservative in their play should avoid these types of bets altogether.

However, those with bigger bankrolls and bettors who enjoy a bit more excitement and action may want to make these bets occasionally. Many players like to combine hardway bets with safer bets like the Pass Line with odds to balance risk.

Some craps players who may be enjoying some success may bet the hardway of the point number. For example, if the point is 8, some players will bet a hard 8. If that hardway then hits, the player wins on the Pass Line and on the hardway.

It’s important to place hardway bets sparingly due to their high house edge. Practice responsible play and avoid chasing losses by increasing bet sizes on hardways.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Hardways

Playing smart and looking for the lowest house edges is always advisable, but players may want to make these types of prop bets on occasion. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Over-relying on hardway bets as a primary strategy.
• Failing to consider the odds and house edge before placing these bets.
• Mismanaging bankroll by betting too much on high-risk hardways.
• Not playing at stakes you can afford.
• Not making other solid wagers with lower house edges, such as the Pass Line.

Why Do Players Love Hardways Bets?

Some players simply love the action and excitement that comes with betting hardways. They also appreciate the high payout potential compared to simpler bets.

Seeing those hardways actually land on the dice can bring a real thrill and sense of accomplishment. These are also very easy bets to make and don;t require any real strategy.

Conclusion

Craps hardways refer to betting on doubles – seeing the same number appear on both dice, such as 2-2, 3-3, 4-4, and 5-5. These wagers can be found in the center of the table with the proposition bets. Hardway bets are multi-roll bets and players win if the hardway number is rolled and lose if the shooter rolls a seven or rolls that number the easy way instead.

Players enjoy these bets because they are fun, easy to make, and come with higher payouts, paying 7 to 1 for 6 and 8 and 9 to 1 for 4 and 10. However, players face high house edges for these bets – 9.09% for 6 and 8 and 11.11% for 4 and 10.

Those looking to test out their own craps strategies and perhaps make a few hardway bets should check out Lucky Block Casino. The patron is easy to use and setting up an account just takes a few minutes. You’ll find plenty of craps, including live dealer games, as well as numerous other gaming options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are hardways bets in craps?

These are wagers on 4, 6, 8, and 10 in which a player is betting that a double shows up such as 2-2, 3-3, 4-4, and 5-5. Hardways are multi-roll wagers and found in the center of the table with the proposition bets. Players enjoy the excitement of these bets and the higher payouts. They are also easy to make.

How much do hardways bets pay?

Craps hardways pay out 7 to 1 for 6 and 8 and 9 to 1 for 4 and 10.

Are hardways bets good for beginners?

Hardways are easy bets to make, but come with a high house edge. New players may also want to consider bets with lower house edges, such as the Pass Line with odds backing up the wager.

What is the house edge on hardways bets?

On 6 and 8, the house edge is 9.09%. For 4 and 10, the house edge is 11.11%.

Can I combine hardways bets with other wagers?

Yes, many players combine these bets with more favorable bets, such as the Pass Line. Many players also bet on the hardway version of the point number when making these wagers.