Guillotine Choke Overview: The guillotine choke is a very high percentage choke with a proven track record of success. According to some studies, it is the second most effective submission in MMA. Because chokes in general are so important for self-defense, and because the guillotine has such an impressive record of success, every jiu jitsuka needs to know as much as they can about this choke.
Drawbacks to the standing guillotine:
- 1Sometimes it can be hard to generate enough leverage when standing
- 2If your opponent knows some grappling, he can take you down or even slam you!
- 3A streetfighter can punch your groin.
But in spite of all of this, the standing guillotine is still an effective choke and it has a long track record of success. Best practice is to use it against a wall_ if possible. If you encounter any problems when using it, pull the opponent into the guard. Remember the “first to ground” principle - when doing a guillotine choke, the person who hits the ground first has the advantage! (pulling guard vs. being taken down)
The “V” Or “High Wrist” Principle: Try to avoid “L” shaped guillotines. Turn the “L” into a “V”. Getting the “V” or high wrist above the opponent’s clavicle accomplishes two very important things. First it achieves “Double Closure” (it seals off both of his carotid arteries). Secondly, it reduces his ability to counter (the high wrist position is such an efficient strangle it reduces his ability to counter.).
Grips & Squeezing Method – Grip: Pull the blade of the hand up. To squeeze, remember this tip:
“To take out the slack, cover the heart and pull the elbow back”.