Grapplers Graveyard
The Simple Verdict Review System
How We Rate Gear at Grapplers Graveyard
When it comes to reviewing BJJ and combat sports gear, not everything can be measured with a ruler, a scale, or cold data. Some products require a more experience-driven, on-the-mats approach to understand how they actually feel and perform during training.
That’s why we created the Simple Verdict Review System — a streamlined, intuitive way to communicate how a piece of gear really stacks up based on real testing, hard rounds, and long-term use.
Our goal is simple:
Give you the most honest, useful, no-BS verdict so you can buy gear with confidence.
Why We Needed a Different Rating System
Some gear categories—Gis, rash guards, gloves, shorts, etc.—can be graded with structured criteria, weight, durability metrics, and performance scoring. But certain products are inherently subjective:
- Finger tape
- Mouthguards
- Bags and accessories
- Training tools
- Budget gear with inconsistent variation
- Apparel & lifestyle items (rash guards & shorts)
For these items, trying to force a rigid scoring system doesn’t help you make a better decision. Instead, you need a clear answer:
Is it worth buying or not?
Who is it good for?
What should you expect?
That’s exactly what the Simple Verdict system delivers.
How the Simple Verdict Works
Every product that falls under our “subjective gear” category receives one of three verdicts:
Buy It (Recommended)
Recommended
-
The product does exactly what it claims
-
It adds convenience, comfort, or performance
-
The quality matches or beats the price
Buy If It Fits Your Needs
Situational
-
The product works, but only for certain use-cases
-
Quality is decent, but there are trade-offs
-
Price may be high or low relative to performance
Skip It
Not Recommended
-
Performance does not match marketing claims
-
Fit or feel is noticeably flawed
-
Better options exist everywhere
-
Durability is poor
The Simple Verdict at a Glance
| Verdict | Meaning | Who It Helps |
|---|---|---|
| Buy It | Strong performer — worth your money | Most grapplers |
| Buy If… | Situational value — depends on you | Grapplers with specific needs |
| Skip It | Not worth the price or performance | Everyone |