Introduction to Neck Cranks

Neck cranks are effective submissions that prioritize winning over training partner safety. This instructional series covers seven variations, beginning with fundamental techniques commonly encountered in jiu-jitsu and wrestling transitions.

The Can Opener from Closed Guard

The can opener is a basic neck crank initiated from closed guard, commonly the first technique coaches prohibit beginners from using. The practitioner bases out, cups the back of the opponent's head, places the forearm on the collarbone, and drives forward while sitting back to curl the head forward, forcing the opponent to open their guard or face pressure.

Neck Crank from Scarf Hold Position

From scarf hold or judo-style side control, the practitioner can execute a crank by collecting the opponent's arm for increased compression. Proper forearm placement targeting the temple or hairline—rather than the neck itself—creates the cranking action, enhanced by lifting the hip and rolling the ribs back into the opponent's body.

The Accordion Squeeze Variation

Also called the trash compactor or shark machine, this technique involves grabbing the inside thigh and fishing for the opponent's near leg from side control. The practitioner then secures both thighs and squeezes them together to create simultaneous neck crank and compression pressure affecting breathing.

Face Crank with Snuff Box from Rear Position

When fighting from the back with the opponent's chin tucked, the practitioner targets the snuff box (radius bone at the wrist) and positions it under the cheekbone. By switching to a short choke configuration and placing the forearm behind the shoulder, the practitioner cranks the opponent's nose toward their chest, creating an uncomfortable twisting motion on the neck and jaw.

Legal and Safety Considerations

Many neck crank variations are illegal in tournament play depending on rule sets and belt levels. Practitioners must verify technique legality with their coach and governing body before use, as these submissions carry significant injury risk and cause substantial discomfort to training partners.

Seven Deadly Neck Cranks | Jiu-Jitsu & Submission Grappling

Knight Jiu-Jitsu

Face Crank From Crucifix

2 min read·6 key moments·PT17M1S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to Neck Cranks
•The Can Opener from Closed Guard
•Neck Crank from Scarf Hold Position
•The Accordion Squeeze Variation

There are obviously more than 7 neck cranks in grappling, but the title has to be catchy... Neck cranks are some of the most brutal submissions possible in grappling. This video explores options, setups and combinations used for neck cranks. Below are time stamps for techniques: 0:00 - 0:25: Intro 0:26 - 1:48: Can Opener 1:49 - 3:45: Cranks from Kesa Gatame 3:46 - 5:40: Face Crank from Back Control 5:41 - 7:03: Front Standing Neck Crank 7:04 - 8:54: Dragon Sleeper Hold 8:55 - 10:05: Iron Neck Benefits 10:06 - 11:41: 100% Neck Crank & Sweep 11:42 - 13:16: Crucifix Neck Crank 13:17 - 16:13: Twister 16:14 - 17:00: Outtro Hope you like it! Gear from @RollBliss If you’re interested in having me for a seminar, message me here or on other socials or email me at [email protected] Thank you for your continued support through watching and subscribing. Turn on those notifications to know as soon as I post! Hundreds more class instruction videos at Patreon.com/KnightJiuJitsu, BJJ Fanatics & Jiu-Jitsu X. Please be sure to turn on notifications for new videos if you haven’t, so you can find out as soon as I upload a new one each week. Become a member of this channel for exclusive class videos not available for free. Super cheap cost for access to lots of exclusive content. • Exclusive Class Content at Patreon.com/KnightJiuJitsu • BJJ Fanatics Instructionals here: https://tinyurl.com/y4ujekp6 • T-Shirts available here: tinyurl.com/wzu6ufb • Instagram @knight_jiu_jitsu_ • TikTok @knightjiujitsu

Related Techniques

Face Crank From Rear Mount

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about face crank from crucifix?

This video covers introduction to neck cranks, the can opener from closed guard, neck crank from scarf hold position. It provides detailed instruction from Knight Jiu-Jitsu.

How long does it take to learn face crank from crucifix?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 6-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.