Alias · Armbar
Wrist crank
Also known as Wristlock — the canonical term used on this site.
Training background: colloquial — emphasises the rotation/lever mechanic
Informal — rotational/lever wristlock mechanic
Wrist crank is a colloquial name for the wristlock — emphasising the rotation-and-lever mechanic that loads the joint past its natural range.
Etymology. “Crank” captures the rotation-and-lever feel of the wristlock finish; “wrist” attaches the joint. The label is used interchangeably with “wristlock” and “wrist twist” in casual vocabulary. The “crank” descriptor is more common in catch-wrestling-adjacent vocabulary; “lock” predominates in BJJ-derived contexts.
Mechanics. The wristlock loads the radiocarpal joint against its natural range — the rotation-and-lever mechanic compounds bending with twisting to reach the joint’s structural limit faster than either direction alone.
Cross-reference. “Wristlock,” “wrist twist,” and “cow hand” are alternate names. Full mechanical coverage on Wristlock.