How to Do the Ten Finger Guillotine in BJJ
The ten finger guillotine uses an interlocked grip with all ten fingers clasped together around the neck. This variation is popular in no-gi because the grip is easy to secure and very strong. The choke works as a combination of blood and air restriction.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 Wrap your arm around the neck from a front headlock
- 2 Interlock all ten fingers in a clasped grip
- 3 Pull the head tight to your chest
- 4 Close your guard or use butterfly hooks for control
- 5 Squeeze elbows together while arching back
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Fingers not fully interlocked weakening the grip
- ⚠️ Not pulling the head tight enough to the chest
- ⚠️ Failing to close guard allows opponent to pass
- ⚠️ Squeezing before the grip is properly set
- ⚠️ Opponent's arm trapped inside reducing choke effectiveness
🔄 Variations
- → Standing ten finger
- → From closed guard
- → From butterfly guard
- → Arm-in ten finger
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Posture up explosively
- → Pass to side control
- → Stack pass
- → Limp arm escape
Track Your Ten Finger Guillotine Progress
Log every time you practice the Ten Finger Guillotine and watch your proficiency grow. MatTime helps you build muscle memory by tracking what you actually drill.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What belt level should I be to learn the Ten Finger Guillotine? ▼
The Ten Finger Guillotine is typically introduced at the blue belt level. However, higher belts continue to refine this technique throughout their BJJ journey. Building a technical foundation. Developing a guard game and understanding of timing.
Does this work in both gi and no-gi? ▼
The Ten Finger Guillotine works in both gi and no-gi, though grip adjustments may be necessary. In no-gi, focus on body control and underhooks instead of gi grips.
How do I set up the Ten Finger Guillotine? ▼
The Ten Finger Guillotine is typically executed from front headlock. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.