Explore crank-based finishes that catch opponents off guard.
The Bottom Line
This is a niche, crank-forward course. It is fun for experimentation and self-defense framing, but less relevant for IBJJF-style competition. Use it if your room allows cranks and you enjoy catch mechanics.
⚡️ Quick facts
Best for: Sub-only or MMA rooms
Skip if: You compete IBJJF-only
Tech focus: Stf Crank, Inside Trip To Stf, Toe Hold To Stf
Biggest takeaway: Creative cranks expand finishing vocabulary.
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What You'll Learn
A crank-heavy series that teaches STF setups from multiple positions. It is more catch/MMA-adjacent than pure IBJJF, but useful for sub-only and self-defense oriented rooms.
Primary Techniques You'll Drill
- Stf Crank
- Half Boston Crab
- Ankle Pick To Stf
- Knee Slide To Stf
- Toe Hold To Stf
- Inside Trip To Stf
Format & Level
- Instructional style: Technique Collection
- Skill level: Advanced
- Format: Both
- Runtime: 1 hour and 8 minutes
- Volumes: 2
Should You Buy It?
Skip. I would treat this as elective study: pull 1–2 ideas that fit your game and ruleset.
Why Erik Paulson?
Paulson often archives unusual finishes and shares them for advanced students. He stresses control first, then crank mechanics. Use judgment about which options fit your ruleset.
Community feedback
Here’s a summary of common feedback from platforms like Reddit’s r/bjj.
😍 Why People Love It
- Seminar stories mention nonstop pressure and painful control.
- Fans of catch like unconventional finishes and transitions.
- Good creativity booster if you enjoy crank mechanics.
🤔 Common Criticisms
- Many cranks are illegal in common BJJ rulesets.
- Some call this material outdated for modern tournaments.
- Occasional 'pro wrestling vibe' turns people off.
Smart Alternatives
- The Catch Wrestling Formula by Neil Melanson – Legality-aware catch controls for BJJ contexts. (Price: $79.00)
- Filthy Cross Body Attacks by Neil Melanson – Top-pressure submissions that avoid illegal cranks.
Sources & References
Official listing: View STF Attack Series on BJJ Fanatics
Additional References
Your next step
You have the breakdown, community feedback, and my final thoughts. Now it’s your move.