BJJ Bow and Arrow Choke: Gi Technique and Back Control | BJJ App Wiki
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Master the BJJ bow and arrow choke: collar grip, leg control and finishing mechanics.
Collar grip, leg control, stretch mechanics and finishing details of the bow and arrow choke.
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The Most Powerful Gi Choke
The bow and arrow choke is widely considered the highest-percentage gi submission in BJJ. When properly secured, it is extremely difficult to escape and provides tremendous mechanical advantage through the stretching motion.
Bow and Arrow Setup
- Establish back control with seatbelt
- Reach over the far shoulder and grip the deep collar
- Move your body to the collar-grip side
- Release the bottom hook
- With your free hand, reach back and grab their near leg/pants
- Stretch your body out like a bow pulling an arrow
Why It Works
The bow and arrow applies simultaneous choke pressure (collar grip) and stretch pressure (leg grip), making it impossible to relieve one pressure without increasing the other. The mechanical advantage is immense — even with perfect defense, the body's structure cannot withstand the stretch.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Related Techniques
Common Mistakes in Bow And Arrow Choke
Rushing the Setup
Attempting to finish before proper mechanics are in place results in failed attempts and positional loss. Prioritize position before submission.
Using Strength Over Technique
Muscling through setups creates bad habits and fails against stronger or more skilled opponents. Focus on leverage and angles.
Skipping Drilling
Techniques only become available in live rolling after extensive drilling. Regular repetition builds the muscle memory needed for execution under pressure.
Ignoring Defensive Reactions
Every technique has common counters. Learn the most frequent defensive reactions and have follow-up attacks ready.
Related Video
More Questions
How do I avoid getting my arm trapped when setting up the Bow and Arrow choke?
Focus on keeping your opponent's arm across their body and away from your face. Use your legs to control their hips and prevent them from posturing up and freeing their arm.
What is the most common mistake people make with the Bow and Arrow choke?
A very common mistake is not securing a strong grip on the collar and pant leg, which allows the opponent to escape. Another error is not driving your chest into their back to create leverage and pressure.
When is the Bow and Arrow choke most effective?
This choke is most effective when your opponent is turtled or trying to defend by posturing up. It's also a powerful option when you have good control of their hips and can prevent them from creating space.