Lesser Known Casino Games: Chuck-a-Luck
"Chuck-a-Luck” is a gambling game with three dice in a cage somewhat similar to a birdcage (although in reality, the cage does look like the offspring of an hourglass and birdcage!) Players bet on the outcome of the three dice.
So why is it called Chuck-a-Luck? Nobody knows for sure! Historians guess (or to be nice, make an educated guess) that the name came from “chucking” dice down a chute while hoping for good luck. Put it together and you have: “Chuck-a-Luck”. Chuck-a-Luck goes by various names like, “Bird Cage”, “Chuck”, or “Sweat Cloth” but it’s all the same game.
In the spinning cage (called the shaker) are three dice. Choose a number and pick how many dice will come up with that number. For example, you can bet the 5 will come up on two dice. That’s the most common bet and it’s a Numbers bet. Having one matching die is even money or 1 to 1 payout. Two matching dice is a 2 to 1 payout. Wager on and get three matching dice for a 10 to 1 payout.
A High bet is a wager that the total of all three dice will be over 10. However you lose if there’s a 12, 15 or 18 as the total. This bet pays even money. The Low bet is the near opposite with a wager the dice sum will be under 11. Get a 3, 6, or 9 and it’s a loss. Win and you get a 1 to 1 payout.
Make an Odd bet and you’re wagering the total of all three dice will be odd. If you get the dreaded Odd Triple (3, 9 or 15) it’s a loss. This bet pays even money. Go on the other side and you’re making a Even bet. This is wagering the total will be even. If you can avoid the Even Triple (6, 12, or 18) and turn up even you win!
Chuck-A-Luck is a common game played not only at casinos but at state fairs, carnivals, and fundraisers. Therefore, the payouts will vary. We don’t want you to expect a big 10 to 1 payout when the Fresno State Fair only pays 3 to 1 for three matching dice.
So now that you know how to play Chuck-a-Luck, should you? Probably not is the answer. Depending on the bet, the house enjoys anywhere from a 4.63% to a whopping 25%. So, take our advice: If you really want to gamble with dice, go play Craps.
