Face locks / Neck cranks
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Face Crank·AZ Battle School
Caution! Be extremely careful. Only train this with a certified professional. This is for information only.
Face Crank
Genus顔捻り(Kao Hineri)
TraditionalTranslation: Face Twist
Overview
The face crank applies pressure across the opponent's face — typically the chin, jaw, or nose — to force cervical hyperextension and create intense pain. [1],[2],[3] The attacker clasps hands under or across the face and pulls upward or backward, driving the chin toward the ceiling and hyperextending the cervical spine. [1],[4] Face cranks are often applied from back control, mount, or north-south when the opponent tucks their chin to defend chokes. [1],[5] While primarily a pain submission, sustained face cranking can cause cervical spine injury, making it a dangerous technique that is banned or restricted in some competitions. [1],[6]
History & Origin
Face cranks have existed across wrestling traditions for centuries as a method to force positional compliance. [1],[2] In catch wrestling, face cranking was a standard technique for exposing the neck. [1],[3] In modern BJJ and MMA, the face crank became a controversial technique — effective but often viewed as 'grinding' rather than technical submission. [1],[4],[5] The IBJJF prohibits cranking the face without a choke component. [1],[6]
Effectiveness
Face cranks apply rotational pressure to the jaw and face, creating intense pain and threatening cervical spine damage. [1]
Lineage
Face cranks appear in catch wrestling and early MMA as pain-based submissions. [1]
Competition Record
Face cranks are legal in MMA, where they occasionally force tap-outs. [1]
Images
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Biomechanical Mechanism
Primary Action — Compression of the neck structures — restricts blood flow or airway depending on technique application
Joints Involved — Cervical spine, surrounding musculature, and vascular structures of the neck
Force Vector — Directed compression against the neck from the choking limb or body position
Finishing Mechanic — Sustained pressure causes either vascular occlusion (unconsciousness) or tracheal restriction (breathing difficulty)
Position & Entry
From back control with seatbelt — Establish hooks or body triangle, slide choking arm under the chin, connect hands and squeeze
From turtle top (back take) — Break down the turtle, insert hooks, secure seatbelt grip, slide to back control and apply the choke
From standing back clinch — Secure rear body lock, drag opponent to the mat while inserting hooks, transition to choking position
Videos
Seven Deadly Neck Cranks | Jiu-Jitsu & Submission Grappling
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Face Crank·Knight Jiu-Jitsu
There are obviously more than 7 neck cranks in grappling, but the title has to be catchy... Neck cranks are some of the …
NAUKA Face Clinch Neck Crank Option
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Face Crank·Rich Graham
This video shows another face clinch option from the NAUKA Fighting System. A couple quick points for this face clinch…
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3 videosWhat Instructors Say
The face crank is a cervical-extension submission that applies rotational and compressive pressure to the neck and head by targeting facial structures rather than the neck directly. Knight Jiu-Jitsu describes face cranks as effective but potentially injurious submissions that exploit chin-tucked defenses against chokes; the instructor demonstrates variants from closed guard (using the crown of the head and forearm on the collarbone), side control (with arm collection and rib compression), rear control (using the radial notch of the wrist under the cheekbone), front headlock transitions, north-south position (the dragon sleeper/executioner hold), crucifix (pulling high near the hairline), and twister setups (full-body spinal twist). AZ Battle School approaches face locks through a self-defense lens, identifying anatomical pressure points—orbital ridge, bridge of nose, chin, mandible, and jawline—that function within the attacker's "cloud of power" through cutting, grinding, and collapsing motions. Rich Graham's NAUKA system distinguishes face clinches from pure neck attacks, combining neck bending and head rotation with pain compliance via wrist-bone pressure against facial tissue, applicable in clinch and ground positions. All three instructors emphasize that face cranks are tournament-illegal in many rule sets, cause cumulative neck damage, demand careful partner communication, and differ from chokes in that they typically rely on spinal manipulation and pain rather than circulation restriction to force submission.
Synthesized from 3 instructors
- Knight Jiu-Jitsu — Seven Deadly Neck Cranks | Jiu-Jitsu & Submission Grappling: Comprehensive taxonomy of face-crank variants across multiple positions: can opener from closed guard, side-control compression cranks, rear-naked-choke transition via radial notch/cheekbone pressure, front-guillotine chin-tuck variations, north-south/dragon-sleeper hold, crucifix high-pressure cranks, and twister full-spinal twists. Emphasizes distinction between compression and cranking mechanics, neck damage accumulation, and strategic use to expose necks for proper chokes.
- AZ Battle School — Face locks / Neck cranks: Anatomical framework using 'cloud of power' concept; identifies specific facial pressure points (orbital ridge, bridge of nose, mandible, chin, jawline) and execution mechanics (cutting, grinding, scooping, turning, collapsing). Positions face locks as self-defense compliance tools with pain-based enforcement rather than sport-jiu-jitsu applications. Highlights safety concerns including potential mandible dislocation and cumulative spinal injury.
- Rich Graham — NAUKA Face Clinch Neck Crank Option: Distinguishes face clinches from direct neck attacks through combined cervical flexion, head rotation, and facial pain compliance using wrist-bone pressure. Demonstrates clinch-to-ground transition from framing defense, emphasizing structural control and law-enforcement applicability (no-neck-touch policies). Shows adaptive transitions between face-clinch variants and movement options for the controlling athlete.
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Ratings
Risk of injury to the person this technique is applied to
8
Very High8/10
Face cranks use the jaw or orbital ridge as a lever to torque the cervical spine
Skill level needed to execute this technique reliably
Intermediate
Whether this technique is allowed under major competition rule sets
Illegal
— IBJJF — Neck cranks and spinal locks prohibited at all be...
IBJJF Rules Book v6.0, June 2024PDF— IJF — Neck cranks prohibited
IJF Sport and Organisation Rules 2025, Article 27PDF— FIAS Sport Sambo — All chokes prohibited in Sport Sambo
FIAS International Sambo Competition RulesPDFLegal
— ADCC — Legal
ADCC Rules Update, April 2025PDF— Unified MMA — Legal — choke submissions are among the mos...
Unified Rules of MMA, August 2025PDF— FIAS Combat Sambo — Legal
FIAS Combat Sambo RulesPDFTraining Notes
✓The face crank uses pressure against the jaw or face to force the cervical spine into flexion, extension, or rotation — the jaw acts as a lever that transmits force to the neck (Paulson, Shoot Wrestling, 2007)
✓The mechanism: by pressing or pulling the face, the mandible (jawbone) transfers force to the cervical spine — the neck is forced past its comfortable range of motion, creating pain and potential structural damage
✓Face cranks are applied from multiple positions: from back control (using the forearm across the face), from mount (pressing the chin), or from front headlock (twisting the face)
✓The face crank is often a 'gateway' submission: when the opponent tucks their chin to defend a rear naked choke, the forearm across the face creates a crank — the opponent must choose between the crank and exposing the neck
✓The TMJ (temporomandibular joint) is also at risk: extreme force against the jaw can damage the jaw joint, creating injury beyond the cervical spine
✓Face cranks exist in a grey area: they are legal in most advanced competitions but considered unsportsmanlike in some recreational training environments
✓The face crank from back control: wrap the forearm across the face (not under the chin), then squeeze — the jaw is pushed laterally or downward, forcing the cervical spine to follow
Common Mistakes
!Using face cranks as primary attacks — they should be transitional: use the face crank to open the neck for a proper choke, not as the goal
!Applying face cranks explosively in training — the jaw and neck are vulnerable; progressive application allows the training partner to respond
!Ignoring the training partner's discomfort — face cranks cause pain before structural damage; respect the tap and discuss training intensity
!Relying on face cranks against experienced opponents — skilled grapplers recognise face cranks and will either endure the discomfort or transition to defend properly
!Pressing only the soft tissue of the face — the crank works through the jaw as a lever; pressure must contact the mandible to transmit force to the spine
!Using face cranks from positions with poor control — without positional dominance, face cranks are annoying pushes that waste energy
!Not understanding the difference between a face crank and a choke — if the forearm is on the face, it's a crank; under the chin on the neck, it's a choke — recognise and apply each correctly
Related Techniques
Counter Techniques
Tuck Chin — protect the neck by lowering the chin to prevent the choke from sinkingTwo-on-One Grip Fight — use both hands to strip the choking grip before it locksTurn Into — rotate toward the choking arm to relieve carotid pressurePosture Up — straighten the spine and create distance to break the choking angle
Setup Chain
1Achieve Controlling Position — secure the position from which the choke is applied
2Isolate the Neck — clear defending hands and establish access to the throat
3Set the Grip — lock the choking configuration (arm, lapel, or leg placement)
4Apply Pressure — squeeze to compress the carotid arteries for the finish
Sources & References
Primary Source
Koryu Jujutsu; Shooto commentary
1BookKoryu Jujutsu; Shooto commentary
Japanese terminology sourced from Koryu Jujutsu; Shooto commentary
2Oral TraditionKoryu Jujutsu (Classical Japanese Jujutsu)
Classical schools: Tenjin Shin'yo-ryu, Takenouchi-ryu, etc.
3OtherShooto (Japanese MMA)
Japanese MMA pioneer organization — technique terminology
Standard Japanese martial arts terminology (kanji/hiragana)
5OtherJapanese Martial Arts Standard Terminology (武道用語)
Established Japanese martial arts naming convention — native Japanese term (和語/漢語)
6CitationKoryu Jujutsu; Shooto commentary
Japanese terminology sourced from Koryu Jujutsu; Shooto commentary
Community
Athletics
Requires
shoulder and chest pressure, hip sprawl endurance
Favours
heavier upper body, broad shoulders
Key muscles
deltoids, pectorals, core, hip extensors
Sub-techniques
Face Crank From Crucifix
SpeciesThe face crank from crucifix is applied when the attacker has secured the crucifix position — trapping one of the opponent's arms with the legs (typically the far arm threaded between the legs) while controlling the second arm with the hands or shoulder pin — and then places a hand or forearm across the opponent's face, pulling upward to hyperextend the cervical spine. [1,2] The crucifix eliminates the opponent's ability to use their hands for defense, leaving the face and neck completely exposed to cranking pressure. [1] The attacker can grip under the nose, chin, or forehead and lever the head backward against the trapped body, creating intense spinal extension pressure. [1,2]
1 varieties·1 techniquesExplore
Face Crank From Rear Mount
SpeciesThe face crank from rear mount is applied from standard back control by placing a hand or forearm across the opponent's face — typically under the nose or on the chin — and pulling the head backward while the hooks or body triangle anchor the body in place. [1,2] The opposing forces of the anchored torso and the cranked head create cervical hyperextension. [1] This technique is commonly used as a setup to force the opponent to expose their neck for a rear naked choke, though it can produce a submission through spinal pain alone. [1,2]
1 varieties·1 techniquesExplore
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a neck crank and a choke?
According to Knight Jiu-Jitsu, a neck crank involves cranking the neck by going up higher toward the temple or hairline, whereas a choke is simply squeezing the neck. Knight emphasizes that the placement of the forearm is crucial to distinguish between these two mechanics.
Can a face crank force my opponent to open their guard?
Yes, Knight Jiu-Jitsu explains that using a neck crank can make your opponent open their guard, which allows you to start initiating a pass. This is one tactical application of the crank when you want to move into guard passing rather than finish the submission.
What should I do if my opponent tucks their chin to defend against a rear naked choke?
Knight Jiu-Jitsu suggests using the snuff box (the radius near the wrist) placed under the cheekbone, then switching into a short choke to crank the neck while getting your forearm behind the opponent's shoulder.
How do I protect my neck from long-term damage when training neck cranks?
Knight Jiu-Jitsu stresses the importance of keeping your neck strong through prehab and rehab, and recommends tools like the Iron Neck device to prevent injuries and maintain the longevity of your jiu-jitsu career.
What's the key principle behind applying a face lock or neck crank effectively?
According to AZ Battle School, when applying a neck crank or face lock, you're essentially pulling your opponent into your cloud of power, turning them, and collapsing their spine—since the spine becomes weaker once it bends.
How does the Face Crank work?
The face crank applies pressure across the opponent's face — typically the chin, jaw, or nose — to force cervical hyperextension and create intense pain. The attacker clasps hands under or across the face and pulls upward or backward, driving the chin toward the ceiling and hyperextending the cervical spine.
Where does the Face Crank come from?
Face cranks have existed across wrestling traditions for centuries as a method to force positional compliance. In catch wrestling, face cranking was a standard technique for exposing the neck.
Is the Face Crank legal in competition?
IBJJF: banned — Neck cranks and spinal locks prohibited at all belt levels; IJF: banned — Neck cranks prohibited; ADCC: legal — Legal; Unified MMA: legal — Legal — choke submissions are among the most common finishes in MMA; FIAS Sport Sambo: banned — All chokes prohibited in Sport Sambo; FIAS Combat Sambo: legal — Legal
How dangerous is the Face Crank?
Danger rating 8/10. Face cranks use the jaw or orbital ridge as a lever to torque the cervical spine
How do I set up the Face Crank?
The standard setup chain: Achieve Controlling Position → Isolate the Neck → Set the Grip → Apply Pressure.
How do I defend against the Face Crank?
Standard counters include: Tuck Chin — protect the neck by lowering the chin to prevent the choke from sinking / Two-on-One Grip Fight — use both hands to strip the choking grip before it locks / Turn Into — rotate toward the choking arm to relieve carotid pressure / Posture Up — straighten the spine and create distance to break the choking angle.
What are the variants of the Face Crank?
Common variants: Standard north-south choke (shoulder drives into the neck from north-south position); Paper-cutter variation (uses the forearm blade across the throat from the north-s…); Transition finish (applied during the walk-around from side control to north…).
How effective is the Face Crank in competition?
Face cranks are legal in MMA, where they occasionally force tap-outs.
What are common mistakes when doing the Face Crank?
Top errors to watch for: Using face cranks as primary attacks — they should be transitional: use the face crank to open the neck for a proper … / Applying face cranks explosively in training — the jaw and neck are vulnerable; progressive application allows the tr… / Ignoring the training partner's discomfort — face cranks cause pain before structural damage; respect the tap and dis… / Relying on face cranks against experienced opponents — skilled grapplers recognise face cranks and will either endure….
What are other names for the Face Crank?
The Face Crank is also known as Kao Hineri, Jaw Crank, Crossface Crank, Kao-hishigi.