A concept map for knee bars with drills that stick.
The Bottom Line
You learn a directional model to enter, finish, and recover top. Drills teach staying attached while partners spin. You will not get deep lapel-based gi variations.
⚡️ Quick facts
Best for: teachers and tinkerers
Skip if: you want only moves
Tech focus: Russian Cowboy, Saddle To Kneebar, Control The Spin
Biggest takeaway: Direction dictates finish
📋 Jump to a section (Click to expand)
What You'll Learn
Harriott gives you a navigational model for knee bars: entries, directional finishes, and how to get back on top without losing the leg. It is concept-first with live-oriented drills.
Primary Techniques You'll Drill
- Kneebar
- Russian Cowboy
- Saddle To Kneebar
- Compass Directions
- Guard Passing From Sit
- Broken Tv Kneebar
- Control The Spin
- Drill Progressions
Format & Level
- Instructional style: Conceptual, Drill Heavy, System Based
- Skill level: All Levels
- Format: No-Gi
- Volumes: 4
Should You Buy It?
Wait for daily deal. I found the compass idea helps athletes choose the right fall direction without hesitating, which raises finish percentage.
Why Charles Harriott?
Charles Harriott is a globetrotting coach known for clear conceptual teaching. He uses mental models and drill progressions to make leg locks safer and more repeatable.
Community feedback
Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.
😍 Why People Love It
- People praise his Leglocks 101 for clarity and approachability.
- Fans like the mental model mapping directions for knee bars.
- Students mention usable class structure and fun teaching style.
🤔 Common Criticisms
- Concept-first style may feel talk-heavy to some.
- Not as many pure gi lapel sequences.
Free Preview Lesson
Smart Alternatives
- Knee Bar by Vlad Koulikov – More technique collection for quick adds. (Price: $79.00, 2 vols)
- You Can't Kneebar – Advanced no-gi entries and counters. (Price: $99.00, 4 vols)
Sources & References
Video Breakdowns
Official listing: View The Compass Kneebar System on BJJ Fanatics
Additional References
Your next step
You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.

