The Come-Out Roll: The Heart of the New Round
The Come-Out Roll is the most important moment in a game of craps. It is the reset button—the first roll of a new round where the table’s energy is at its peak. Whether you are playing in a high-tech 2026 digital studio or at a traditional felt table, the Come-Out roll dictates how the next several minutes (or even hours) of play will unfold.
You can always tell when a table is in the Come-Out phase by looking at the dealer’s Puck. If it is turned to the black OFF side, it’s time for a new shooter to step up.
How the Come-Out Roll Works
The shooter takes the dice and makes their first toss. This single roll has three possible paths, each affecting your bets differently:
1. The Natural (7 or 11)
This is the best-case scenario for the majority of the table.
- Pass Line: Wins immediately (1:1 payout).
- Don’t Pass: Loses immediately.
- The Result: The round ends instantly. The shooter stays at the table, the Puck stays OFF, and they prepare for another Come-Out roll.
2. The Craps (2, 3, or 12)
This is where the game gets its name.
- Pass Line: Loses immediately (you “Crap Out”).
- Don’t Pass: Wins on 2 or 3. On a 12, it is usually a “Push” (Tie)—you don’t win or lose, you just get your bet back.
- The Result: Like a Natural, the round ends here. The shooter keeps the dice and tries again for a new Come-Out.
3. The Point (4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10)
If the shooter rolls any of these “middle” numbers, the game moves into the next phase.
- The Puck: The dealer flips the Puck to the white ON side and places it on the number that was rolled.
- The Mission: That number is now the Point. The shooter must roll that specific number again before rolling a 7 to win.
Betting Strategy During the Come-Out
Because the Come-Out roll is the only time the “7” is your friend if you’re on the Pass Line, pro players use this window to set up their session.
- Pass Line is Mandatory: In 2026, most tables require a Pass Line or Don’t Pass bet to be active before the Come-Out. This is your “entry fee” to the game.
- Prop Bets (The Horn): You’ll often see players tossing chips into the center for a “Horn Bet” (2, 3, 11, 12) during the Come-Out. This is a “hedge” strategy; if the shooter craps out (2 or 3) and your Pass Line loses, the high payout from the Horn bet covers your loss.
- Place Bets are “Off”: By default, Place bets (betting on specific numbers like 6 or 8) are OFF during the Come-Out roll. If the shooter rolls a 7, your Place bets are safe. However, you can tell the dealer to make them “Live” if you’re feeling aggressive.
2026 Etiquette: The “Late” Pass Line
In the modern, fast-paced 2026 environment, dealers are strict about the betting window. You must have your Pass Line bet down before the shooter has the dice. If the shooter is already shaking the dice, wait for the next roll. Trying to “sneak” a bet in while the dice are in the air is the fastest way to get a reprimand from the Boxman.
Frequently asked questions
What is a come-out roll?
It is the opening roll for a new line-bet cycle. It can settle line bets immediately or establish a point.
Which totals can establish the table point?
Four, five, six, eight, nine and ten can establish it in standard craps. The point marker then identifies the active number.
Is every wager affected identically by a come-out roll?
No. Some existing wagers may be off or have separate settlement conditions. The opening status of the main line does not describe every bet on the table.
Can information about craps guarantee a winning result?
No. Understanding rules does not remove uncertainty or the risk of loss. A game’s payout schedule is not a promise about the result of a particular round or session.
Which rules should I use when checking a craps example?
Use the rules and paytable for the exact version being discussed. Different editions can change payouts, optional features and settlement conditions. General examples do not override those published rules.
Does this craps guide mean an online service can legally accept Australians?
No. This is an explanation of a game, not confirmation of an operator’s legal status. Read ACMA’s consumer guidance and our Responsible Gambling resources.
