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Scissor Sweep

Quick Introduction​

The scissor sweep is the most fundamental and highest-percentage sweep from closed guard. A scissoring leg motion off-balances your opponent and reverses positions. Typically the first sweep taught because of its reliability and clear mechanics.

Position Overview​

From: Closed Guard | Leads to: Mount, Side Control

Classic Scissor Sweep​

  1. Secure cross-collar grip (4 fingers inside) and opposite sleeve/wrist grip
  2. Hip escape 30-45° to the side — don't stay flat underneath
  3. Open guard, place top shin (collar-grip side) across their belt line, tight to body
  4. Hook bottom foot behind their same-side knee — deep, not shallow
  5. Pull collar forward-and-down while pulling sleeve across
  6. Scissor: top leg pushes their torso away, bottom leg sweeps knee toward you
  7. Follow momentum, come up to mount; keep sleeve control throughout

Key detail: The angle is what makes this work. Flat on your back reduces the scissoring force by half.

No-Gi Variation​

Same mechanics with overhook + wrist control instead of collar + sleeve. Tighter distance, faster execution needed since there's less friction.

Core Principles​

  1. Grips before opening guard — never open without controlling both a post and their posture
  2. Angle creates leverage — hip escape before executing multiplies force
  3. Bottom leg prevents posting — without the knee hook, they just step out
  4. Commit fully — the scissoring motion must be explosive and coordinated
  5. Follow through — don't stop at "on top," finish in mount

Common Mistakes​

MistakeFix
Shin floating away from bodyBlade of shin pressed tight across belt line
Shallow bottom hookGet foot deep behind knee, not resting on top
No hip angleHip escape 30-45° before executing
Opening guard without gripsSecure collar + sleeve first, then open
Pushing and pulling same directionTop leg pushes away, bottom leg pulls — opposite directions

Next Steps​

  1. Flower Sweep - Natural follow-up when scissor sweep is defended
  2. Armbar - Classic combination from the same grips
  3. Hip Bump Sweep - Opposite-direction sweep creates a dilemma