Intermediate3 min readLast updated: 2026-06-10
Breaker Blocks in SMC — Complete Guide
Master Breaker Blocks — failed Order Blocks that flip polarity and become powerful entry zones in the new direction.
What is a Breaker Block?
A Breaker Block is a failed Order Block that flips polarity. When an Order Block gets broken (violated), it doesn't disappear — it transforms into a Breaker Block that now acts as support/resistance from the opposite direction.
Failed OB = New Opportunity
When a bullish OB fails (price breaks below it), the entire OB zone becomes a bearish Breaker Block. Price often returns to this zone before continuing lower — giving you an entry.
How Breaker Blocks Form
Bullish Breaker Block:
1. Bearish Order Block exists (last green candle before drop)
2. Price drops, creating lower lows
3. Then price REVERSES and breaks ABOVE the bearish OB
4. The broken bearish OB = Bullish Breaker Block
5. Price returns to test this zone as SUPPORT
6. Entry: Long at the Breaker Block retest
Bearish Breaker Block:
1. Bullish Order Block exists (last red candle before rally)
2. Price rallies, creating higher highs
3. Then price REVERSES and breaks BELOW the bullish OB
4. The broken bullish OB = Bearish Breaker Block
5. Price returns to test this zone as RESISTANCE
6. Entry: Short at the Breaker Block retest
Identification Rules
| Rule | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Origin | Must be a valid Order Block first |
| Break | OB must be completely violated (candle close beyond) |
| Flip | Old OB now acts as opposite S/R |
| Retest | Price returns to test the broken zone |
| Confirmation | Rejection candle at the Breaker |
Breaker vs. Order Block
| Feature | Order Block | Breaker Block |
|---|---|---|
| Status | Active, unbroken | Broken, flipped |
| Direction | Same as original | Opposite to original |
| Trade | With original direction | With new direction |
| Reliability | Fresh = strongest | After clear break = strong |
Trading Breaker Blocks
1. Identify Order Block that has been clearly broken
2. Mark the broken OB zone = Breaker Block
3. Wait for price to return to the Breaker zone
4. Enter in the NEW direction (opposite to original OB)
5. Stop: Beyond the Breaker Block zone
6. Target: Next liquidity or structural level
Related Topics
- Order Blocks — What becomes a Breaker
- Mitigation Blocks — Partially tested OBs
- CHOCH — Structure break creates Breakers