May 2, 2025
6 Minute Read
Horn Bet in Craps Explained – What It Is and How It Works
The Horn Bet in craps is a unique wager that covers multiple numbers on one roll. This is one of the many proposition bets available to players on the craps layout.
Many players enjoy making these quick-hit, one-roll wagers occasionally for the potential of a nice payout. How does this wager work and what can players expect when making this bet?
Keep reading to learn more about this proposition bet including the mechanics of the wager,, payouts, strategies, and more.
What is a Horn Bet in Craps?
The craps Horn Bet is a simple wager. When making this bet, players are betting that a 2, 3, 11, or 12 will come up on the next roll. A player dropping a few chips on this bet will see each number get an equal portion of the total bet.
If none of these numbers hit on the next roll, then the player loses the wager. These types of bets appeal to players looking for higher-risk, high-reward options.
Payouts and Odds for the Horn Bet
Players enjoy these wagers for the thrill of single-roll action and a shot at some premium payouts. Here’s a look at the payouts players can expect when hitting a Horn Bet.
- 2 and 12 – typically pay out at 30 to 1.
- 3 and 11 typically pay out at 15 to 1
So a player dropping $4 on the Horn Bet will see $1 placed on each of the 2, 3, 11, and 12. If a 2 or 12 is then rolled, that bettor would win $30. If a 3 or 11 is rolled, the bettor would win $15. It’s that easy.
However, craps Horn Bet players must realize that there is a hefty house edge. At 12.5%, this is one of the worst bets on the craps table. But some players like making the bet because it is cheap and can come with a big reward. But there are long odds in rolling the 2, 3, 11, or 12, as seen below.
| Number | Odds of rolling | Payout |
| 2 | 1 out of 36 – 2.78% | 30 to 1 |
| 3 | 2 out of 36 – 5.56% | 15 to 1 |
| 11 | 2 out of 36 – 5.56% | 15 to 1 |
| 12 | 1 out of 36 – 2.78% | 30 to 1 |
How to Place a Horn Bet
Because the proposition bets are located in the center of the table, these bets will normally be handled by the stickman. Here’s how the procedure goes to make this bet.
- Step 1 – Decide your total wager amount and drop or toss chips toward the Horn Bet area.
- Step 2 – Instruct the dealer that you’d like to make a Horn Bet. Understand that your bet is divided equally among 2, 3, 11, and 12. The dealer will position your chips on the right wager.
- Step 3 – Wait for the roll outcome to see if one of your numbers hits. The dealer will then pay out a winning bet or collect your chips if the wager is a loser.
Why Do Players Choose Horn Bets?
Craps is an action-packed game and some players like seeing more opportunities to win. Players like the craps Horn Bet because it covers four numbers in a single roll.
The bet also offers higher payouts compared to standard bets, adding some excitement because of the high-risk nature of the bet. Some players who may be ahead may occasionally wager some of these winnings for a dance at even more.
Strategies for Playing Horn Bets
Ideally players should consider bets with a lower house edge while only making proposition bets occasionally. When making the Horn Bet, here are a few things to keep in mind.
- Use sparingly due to the high house edge.
- Combine with safer bets like the Pass Line with odds to better balance risk.
- Consider the Horn High bet variation for more targeted payouts (more on that below).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
As with all craps betting, having an understanding of this wager is key. When making the Horn Bet, here are a few mistakes to avoid:
- Placing the bet too much – beware of the high house edge.
- Betting too much in comparison to your bankroll.
- Misunderstanding the division of the bet across four numbers.
- Relying solely on Horn Bets without a balanced strategy.
Variations of the Craps Horn Bet
There are a few variations on the Horn Bet, allocating more money to a specific number. These variations can appeal to players who have specific number preferences. A player dropping $5 on the table can use the extra $1 for one of the four bets. These include:
- Horn High Yo – The extra $1 is placed on the 11.
- Horn High 12 – The extra $1 is placed on the 12.
- Horn High Aces – The extra $1 is placed on the 2.
- Horn High 3 – The extra $1 is placed on the 3.
Conclusion
Many players love the proposition bets at the craps table because of the added thrill that comes with more numbers at work and the possibility of some high payouts. The Horn Bet is one of these popular wagers. This is a one-roll bet that pays out if 2, 3, 11, or 12 is rolled.
The bet generally pays out at 30 to 1 for 2 and 12 and 15 to 1 for 3 and 11. Those are some nice payouts, but the wager also comes with one of the worst house edges on the table for players at 12.5%. Because of this, players may want to only make a Horn Bet occasionally.
Those looking to check out some real-money craps right from their mobile phones or computers may want to consider heading to Lucky Block Casino. Players can test out the Horn Bet and other interesting wagers. Live dealer games are also available, meaning players will be playing at a real craps table like in Las Vegas. Setting up and funding an account takes just a few minutes and you’ll soon be rolling the dice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Horn Bet in craps?
This is a one-roll wager on 2, 3, 11, or 12 and is located in the center of the craps table with the proposition bets.
How does the Horn Bet payout work?
Players earn 30 to 1 for 2 and 12 and 15 to 1 for 3 and 11.
What is the difference between a Horn Bet and a Horn High Bet?
A Horn Bet puts an equal amount on all four numbers while a Horn High bet can put an extra wager on the 11 or 12, depending on the player’s preference.
Is the Horn Bet suitable for beginners?
This is an easy bet to make but comes with a high house edge of 12.5%. New players may want to focus on wagers with a lower house advantage, such us the Pass Line, while only making this bet occasionally.
Can the Horn Bet be combined with other wagers?
Yes, it’s wise to take a balanced approach. Look for wagers with lower house edges and only mix in these bets occasionally. But if you are a more conservative player, you may want to avoid these types of proposition bets entirely.
