Beginner2 min readLast updated: 2026-06-10
SMC Kill Zones — Complete Guide
Master Kill Zones — the specific time windows where institutional SMC setups have the highest success rate.
What are Kill Zones?
Kill Zones are specific time windows during the trading day when smart money is most active. SMC setups (OB entries, FVG fills, liquidity sweeps) have significantly higher success rates during these windows.
The Three Kill Zones
| Kill Zone | Time (EST) | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| London | 2:00 - 5:00 AM | Trend initiation, sweeps Asian |
| New York | 7:00 - 10:00 AM | Continuation or reversal of London |
| London Close | 10:00 - 12:00 PM | Profit-taking, reversals |
Why Kill Zones Matter for SMC
Institutional participation peaks during Kill Zones:
- Orders are placed/executed
- Liquidity sweeps happen
- OB/FVG setups get activated
- Real directional moves start
Outside Kill Zones:
- Low volume, choppy price action
- SMC setups less reliable
- More false signals
- Avoid trading
Kill Zone Strategy
London Kill Zone:
- Asian range = reference (mark H/L)
- London often sweeps Asian H or L first
- Then real direction begins
- Best for: Trend initiation, OB entries
New York Kill Zone:
- London direction = reference
- NY either continues London or reverses it
- Look for OB/FVG entries aligned with bias
- Best for: Continuation setups, high-volume moves
London Close Kill Zone:
- Day's move often peaks here
- Profit-taking creates reversals
- Best for: Counter-trend scalps (advanced)
- Caution: Less reliable than London/NY open
Rules
- Only take SMC setups during Kill Zones
- Asian session = preparation (mark levels, don't trade)
- Best entries: First 2 hours of London or NY
- Avoid: 12 PM - 2 PM EST (dead zone)
- Close all before end of NY session
Related Topics
- Session Liquidity — Session-based targets
- Manipulation — Kill Zone sweeps
- Entry Confirmation — Timing entries