Seven Out is a gambling game that has captivated players worldwide due to its simplicity and the thrill it offers. This game is closely related to Three-card Monte, top-of-the-barrel, and the Shell Game. It has been popular in various settings such as racetracks, fairs, and crowded tourist districts.

How to Play Seven Out

The game consists of two dice, a leather cup, and a gaming board that could be contained in a box, painted on a piece of wood, or even printed onto canvas. On the playing surface, two squares are printed, one containing the numbers 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6; the other containing 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12. Players are invited to bet on either the high numbers or the low numbers and are paid even odds if the dice land in their favor. The number seven is a win for the dealer only, who collects all bets from both sides of the layout.

In fact, this represents a 16.67% advantage to the operator of the game for every roll of the dice. When using shills (confederates), the dealer can easily work either side of the board, draw suckers to the game, and manipulate their decisions exactly as they would in the “game” of Three-Card Monte.

Cheating Methods Used in Seven Out

Naturally, having the best odds is never enough, so crooked operators have several ploys to clean out players once the game is underway. Sleight of hand is a common option where a die would be controlled as the cup is shaken, and its number retained so that it “held up” when thrown, guaranteeing a high number or a seven.

By retaining sixes or aces, the dealer could make sure the dice favored the side with fewer bets and cream profits from the heavier end of the layout. A simpler method was used by expert dealers who would shake the dice, upend the cup, and glimpse the outcome in the process, thanks to a simple gaff.

An interesting ploy was to encourage players on one side of the game to always bet low and players on the other side to always bet high numbers. This version of the game creates a team atmosphere, so when working with shills, it offers a very simple solution to cheating with mis-spotted dice (also known as “tops”).

The Seven Out Scam

The scam known as Seven Out involves a rigged game where everyone else at the table is in on the con. Their goal is to make the mark over-bet due to overconfidence in a game that they don’t actually control. While this type of scam is rare nowadays, the principles are still applied to bigger scams that offer outcomes that seem too good to be true.

The methods used in Seven Out have graduated to other games and scams, and some people have successfully demonstrated this crooked game to clients. However, some still ask if they can keep playing with “honest dice.”

Protecting Yourself from Scams

It’s essential to be aware of these types of scams and not fall for them. Always be cautious of opportunities that seem too good to be true, and don’t let overconfidence cloud your judgment.

Remember, if something seems off or fishy, trust your instincts and walk away. Don’t let yourself become a victim of a scam like Seven Out or any other type of con. Stay vigilant and protect yourself from these dishonest practices.