Have you ever heard of the Iron Cross craps strategy? If you’re a dice aficionado, it’s likely that you have. However, do you know how this particular strategy works? What are the benefits and disadvantages of using Iron Cross in craps? What can you do to make the most of this betting system?
All that and more will be covered in today’s blog post, so settle in as we investigate whether the Iron Cross strategy really is as unbeatable as they say.
How the Iron Cross Craps Strategy Works
Let’s start from the very beginning. What is the Iron Cross craps strategy?
The shortest possible answer is: Iron Cross (also known as Darby’s Field) is a betting system where you win when you roll any number except for a seven. Surely now you can understand the undeniable attraction of Iron Cross in craps and how it stands against any other craps strategy.
However (and there is always a however), you need to know how the Iron Cross craps strategy works to get the full picture. The gist of it is: you make a full-sized bet on 5, 6, and 8 and a half-sized wager on field. That way, you win money on every number, except for the 7.
Is the Iron Cross an Unbeatable Craps Strategy?
Now, you may be thinking: that sounds like a foolproof system. So, why isn’t everyone using the Iron Cross strategy in craps?
Because of that 7. If you roll a seven, not only do you not win, but you lose all your bets.
The catch is that the most frequent roll is the losing 7, as 6 out of the total 36 combinations give that total. That means that the house has the edge.
It is important to understand that the Iron Cross craps strategy was initially conceived as the last roll of the night and not as a strategy to keep you going all evening.
Pros and Cons of the Iron Cross in Craps
As with every betting strategy, there are pros and cons to using them. Iron Cross is no different. You need to be aware at all times what you can gain from such a system, and what can be your downfall. Let’s break down some of the advantages and disadvantages of using Iron Cross in craps.
Pros
Whether we’re talking about playing craps in a brick-and-mortar casino or you’re partial to a game of online craps, these would be the pros of implementing Iron Craps:
- As opposed to one big hit, if you are landing more frequent wins, it means that you will stay engaged for a longer period of time.
- As all the numbers are covered, except for the 7, the house edge is reduced to approximately 1.14% (However, when you back the 6 and 8, the house edge rises to 1.52%, which is a substantial difference, so always keep that in mind, as well as the fact that the 7 is the most common outcome, as previously mentioned.)
- Iron Cross is an exciting strategy for short-term play.
Cons
So, what would be the cons of the so-called “unbeatable” Iron Cross craps strategy?
- For one, no, it’s not unbeatable at all because just one roll of 7 will destroy multiple bets.
- Compared to other craps strategies, Iron Cross has lower payouts.
- Iron Cross is not advisable in the long run due to the house edge.
Advanced Iron Cross Strategy Tips to Improve Your Results
If you’re reading this section, it probably means you already know how to play craps. However, there are always tips on how you can improve your results. Let’s go over some advice that may be proven useful when playing craps.
Pressing Bets: Increase Place Bets When Winning
You can take your profit when you get a win on your place bet, or you can do something called “pressing a bet”. If you tell the dealer to “press it”, it means you wish to use your winnings to increase your wager size.
Managing Bankroll: How to Handle Losses and Control Betting Limits
This is a rule that applies to all betting strategies, including Iron Cross: always set a betting limit and never go over it. This way, you can track and manage your potential losses, especially as Iron Cross can lead to increased risks of losing. Sticking to your bankroll limit can help mitigate the risks.
When to Walk Away: Recognising the Right Moment to Stop
Another golden rule is simple but of vital importance: know when to stop. A hot streak may boost your confidence, but it is wise to know when it’s time to walk away, win or lose. Stay vigilant, don’t get complacent, and, just as we mentioned in the previous section, the moment you are near your betting limit, recognise it and be prepared to fully stop.
Field Bet Variations: Adjusting Based on Table Conditions
Field bets are one of the only bets you can make without the dealer. While it may be tempting to go with field bets on each roll, the more seasoned players will advise you to use field bets selectively. Be focused on the game, pay attention to what is going on around you, take note of other players’ behaviour, and try to infer the best moment to place a field bet.
Additionally, when it comes to Iron Cross in particular, once again remember that it is supposed to be used as a one-off strategy, not as an all-nighter. This bit of info goes a long way.
Final Thoughts: Is the Iron Cross Craps Strategy Right for You?
As you can see, once again, it turns out that a betting strategy is not unbeatable. It is vital to remember this fact, no matter which casino game or betting system we’re talking about. These are all games of chance with varying house edge percentages, and over-relying on any one isn’t recommended in the long run.
However, we hope we’ve managed to add Iron Cross to your list of known craps terms. If you do decide to give the Iron Cross craps strategy a go, remember to test it out on a free online craps game before starting to play for real money.
What’s more, you can always combine different betting strategies and see which combination works for you best. There is no one correct answer here; your playing preferences are your own, but always remember to play responsibly. That one applies to all.