Introduction to Pistol Grip Two-on-One

Instructor Paul Schreiner demonstrates the pistol grip two-on-one, a fundamental control position in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. The grip involves passing one arm over the opponent's arm while securing a grip behind the tricep, preventing the opponent from establishing meaningful grips on the attacker's upper body.

Transitioning to Tripod Sweep Position

When an opponent gains a lapel grip and steps in, the attacker responds by getting to the mat faster and placing a foot on the opponent's hip. From this position, the attacker breaks the grip and passes the hand underneath to establish the two-on-one, which naturally transitions into the tripod sweep setup.

Securing the Tripod Sweep

Once in tripod position, the attacker locates and controls the opponent's ankle while bringing the hip in close to create tension. This positioning neutralizes two primary escape routes: the opponent cannot kick the leg out to the side or shift weight to step out of the second hook.

Gi-Specific Considerations

In gi jiu-jitsu, the opponent may attempt to anchor themselves by gripping the same-side lapel to prevent weight removal from the trapped leg. The pistol grip two-on-one prevents this counter-grip, though the pistol grip itself can be broken if not reinforced, which would result in the sweep anyway.

Executing the Sweep

To complete the sweep, the attacker scoots in and performs a push-pull motion that releases weight from the trapped leg. Simultaneously, the attacker drags the other leg out, places the foot to the inside of the opponent's leg, and comes up on top.

Initial Positioning from Seated Guard

If starting from a seated position, the attacker must reach the mat first to place the foot on the hip before the opponent can drive them down. Immediately after gaining this foot placement, the attacker breaks the grip and transitions to the tripod sweep or maintains the two-on-one control.

Alternative Technique for Stubborn Resistance

When facing a larger or more resistant opponent, the attacker may use a push-pull motion to unweight the leg, then tuck the knee underneath to create a lever. The hook is then used to drag the opponent's hips onto the knee, forcing them to hop and creating the timing to extract the trapped leg.

Positional Layering and Options

The pistol grip two-on-one framework provides multiple strategic outcomes: the attacker can break the grip and proceed to the tripod sweep, transition to the tripod even without a grip break, or employ hybrid techniques that combine elements of the tripod sweep and X guard. This layering ensures the attacker remains prepared regardless of the opponent's defensive choices.

Application Range and Contexts

The pistol grip two-on-one is effective from closed guard, seated guard, and against both kneeling and standing opponents. Beyond direct sweep applications, the technique serves as a method for guard retention, pass prevention, and side control escape.

From The Pistol Grip 2 on 1 To The Tripod Sweep by Paul Schreiner

Bernardo Faria BJJ Fanatics
3 min read·9 key moments·PT6M37S video

Key Takeaways

  • Introduction to Pistol Grip Two-on-One
  • Transitioning to Tripod Sweep Position
  • Securing the Tripod Sweep
  • Gi-Specific Considerations

From The Pistol Grip 2 on 1 To The Tripod Sweep by Paul Schreiner. - Click Here To Check Out Paul Schreiner's Instructional Videos - https://bjjfanatics.com/collections/all/fighter_PAUL-SHREINER - "Bernardo Faria is a 5x World Champion. Bernardo started training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Juiz de Fora - MG, Brazil at the age of 14 in 2001. After receiving the Black Belt from his first instructor Ricardo Marques in 2008, He moved to Sao Paulo to join BJJ legend Fabio Gurgel and his Alliance team. After many years of training and winning many major titles, Bernardo moved to NYC in 2013 to train and teach at Marcelo Garcia Academy. In 2015 Bernardo achieved his dream of winning the IBJJF World Championship Open class title and his division, doing the double Gold and becoming the 1st in the IBJJF Ranking and also chosen as the best athlete of 2015. Bernardo Faria has now taken on the mission to share some of the lessons, techniques, experiences and more that he has learned along in his 16 years and counting as a BJJ student, teacher and world class competitor. Subscribe to his channel, and join him in this amazing BJJ Journey. We promise that you will also improve your BJJ with his awesome Video Lessons, Episodes of his "5 Minutes BJJ Talk" and more... www.fujisports.com - 15% OFF Coupon Code: FARIA15 www.bjjfanatics.com - 10% OFF Coupon Code: YOUTUBEFARIA www.fujimats.com - 10% OFF Coupon Code: FARIAMAT10 http://bernardofaria.com https://www.facebook.com/bernardofariabjj/ https://www.instagram.com/bernardofariabjj/ https://twitter.com/bernardofariajj

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about pistol grip?

This video covers introduction to pistol grip two-on-one, transitioning to tripod sweep position, securing the tripod sweep. It provides detailed instruction from Bernardo Faria BJJ Fanatics.

How long does it take to learn pistol grip?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 9-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.

What are the key details for finishing pistol grip?

The pistol grip two-on-one framework provides multiple strategic outcomes: the attacker can break the grip and proceed to the tripod sweep, transition to the tripod even without a grip break, or employ hybrid techniques that combine elements of the tripod sweep and X guard. This layering ensures the attacker remains prepared regardless of the opponent's defensive choices.