What Are Boxcars in Craps?
In the energetic world of casino dice games, hearing the term boxcars refers to a specific outcome in craps: rolling two sixes. This combination results in a total of 12, the highest possible roll with two standard dice. The term is a classic piece of casino slang, believed to originate from the resemblance of the two dice, each showing six pips, to a pair of boxcars on a freight train when viewed from above.
While boxcars is the most common name for this roll, you might also hear it called midnight. This darker nickname hints at its often unfortunate result for many players at the table, as it can end a hot streak in an instant. Understanding the impact of rolling a 12 is crucial for anyone looking to master the game of craps.
The Impact of Rolling Boxcars on Your Bets
A roll of 12 has different consequences depending on the bets you've placed on the layout. For some, it's an instant loss, while for others, it's a massive win.
- Pass Line Bet: On the come-out roll (the first roll of a new round), a 12 is considered 'craps,' along with a 2 or 3. This means any bets on the Pass Line immediately lose.
- Don't Pass Bet: Interestingly, while a 2 or 3 wins for Don't Pass bettors on the come-out roll, a 12 is typically a push. This is known as 'barring the 12,' a rule casinos use to maintain a house edge on this bet. Your bet is returned, and you neither win nor lose.
- Proposition Bets: This is where boxcars get exciting. Players can place specific one-roll bets on the 12. A bet placed directly on the number 12 offers a high payout, usually 30:1, making it a thrilling longshot. An 'Any Craps' bet, which wins on a 2, 3, or 12, typically pays 7:1.
Betting on Boxcars: Odds and Strategy
Rolling a 12 is a low-probability event. There's only one combination of dice that makes 12 (6 and 6) out of 36 possible outcomes. This gives it true odds of 35:1. Proposition bets centered around this roll carry a significant house edge, making them a risky proposition for serious strategists.
As any seasoned craps player will tell you, proposition bets are for fun, not for profit. The allure of a 30:1 payout on boxcars is strong, but the high house edge makes it a bet that will drain your bankroll over time.
Let's compare the bets involving a 12:
| Bet Type | True Odds | Typical Payout | House Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Twelve (Boxcars) | 35:1 | 30:1 | 13.89% |
| Any Craps | 8:1 | 7:1 | 11.11% |
| Hard 12 | 35:1 | 30:1 | 13.89% |
As you can see, the house advantage is substantial compared to the much safer Pass Line bet, which has a house edge of only 1.41%. Because the only way to make a 12 is with two sixes, a bet on 'Boxcars' is the same as a bet on a 'Hard 12'.
Should You Bet on Boxcars?
Betting on boxcars in craps is a high-risk, high-reward play. It’s not recommended as a primary strategy due to the poor odds and high house edge. However, placing a small bet on the 12 can add a layer of excitement to your game. If you hit it, the payout is substantial and creates a memorable moment at the table. Just be sure to treat it as a bit of fun rather than a sound mathematical play.
