How to Do the Cross Grip Scissor Sweep in BJJ
The cross grip scissor sweep combines a cross collar grip with a scissoring leg motion to topple the opponent. By pulling them forward with the collar while chopping their knee with your bottom leg, you create opposing forces that make the sweep nearly unstoppable when timed correctly.
✓ Key Details to Master
- 1 Secure a deep cross-collar grip and a same-side sleeve grip
- 2 Open your guard and place your shin across their belly as a shield
- 3 Chop their near knee with your bottom leg while pulling with collar
- 4 The scissoring motion of top leg pushing and bottom leg chopping creates the sweep
- 5 Follow through to mount maintaining your grips
✗ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ⚠️ Collar grip not deep enough to pull them forward
- ⚠️ Chopping the knee too high on the thigh instead of below the knee
- ⚠️ Not creating the scissoring motion with both legs simultaneously
- ⚠️ Staying flat instead of getting on your side
- ⚠️ Releasing grips during the sweep
🔄 Variations
- → No-gi with collar tie
- → To knee on belly instead of mount
- → With arm drag setup
🛡️ Counters & Defenses
- → Posture up before the scissor is set
- → Post the far hand wide
- → Stand up in the guard
- → Drive knee forward to block the chop
Track Your Cross Grip Scissor Sweep Progress
Log every time you practice the Cross Grip Scissor Sweep 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 Cross Grip Scissor Sweep? ▼
The Cross Grip Scissor Sweep is typically introduced at the white belt level. However, higher belts continue to refine this technique throughout their BJJ journey. The beginning of the BJJ journey. Focus on survival, basic positions, and fundamental movements.
Does this work in both gi and no-gi? ▼
The Cross Grip Scissor Sweep 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 Cross Grip Scissor Sweep? ▼
The Cross Grip Scissor Sweep is typically executed from closed guard. Key setups include controlling your opponent's posture and creating the right angle. Practice the entry repeatedly before focusing on the finish.