ONTRADE Forex

The Crab Harmonic Pattern: Ultimate Trading Guide

Crab Harmonic Pattern

The Crab harmonic pattern is known for identifying extreme market reversals with exceptional accuracy. Recognized as one of the most advanced harmonic patterns, it offers explosive trade opportunities when properly identified.

🔑 Key Features:
✔ Extreme reversal signals (1.618 XA extension)
✔ Highest-probability D point among harmonic patterns
✔ Works across Forex, stocks, and cryptocurrencies


1. Discovery of the Crab Pattern

  • Developer: Scott Carney (2000)
  • Evolution: Enhanced version of the Butterfly pattern
  • Unique Trait: Uses 1.618 XA extension for ultra-precise reversals

2. Crab Pattern Structure & Fibonacci Ratios

Pattern Points (X-A-B-C-D)

LegFibonacci Requirement
AB38.2% – 61.8% of XA
BC38.2% – 88.6% of AB
CD224% – 361.8% of BC (Must reach 1.618% of XA)

Bullish vs. Bearish Crab

  • Bullish Crab: Forms at extreme lows (Buy at D)
  • Bearish Crab: Forms at extreme highs (Sell at D)

Harmonic Patterns analysis Fibonacci Proportions
Harmonic Patterns analysis Fibonacci Proportions

3. How to Trade the Crab Pattern (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Identify XA Impulse Move

  • Strong directional move (up/down)

Step 2: AB Retracement (38.2% – 61.8%)

  • Must stay within Fibonacci range

Step 3: BC Retracement (38.2% – 88.6%)

  • Should not exceed 88.6% of AB

Step 4: CD Extension (Critical!)

  • 224% – 361.8% of BC
  • Must reach 1.618% of XA

Step 5: Enter at Point D

  • Buy (Bullish Crab) or Sell (Bearish Crab) with confirmation

4. Stop Loss & Take Profit Rules

Stop Loss Placement

  • Bullish Crab: Below D (if long)
  • Bearish Crab: Above D (if short)

Take Profit Targets

TargetFibonacci Level
TP138.2% of AD
TP261.8% of AD
TP3100% of AD (XA point)

5. Confirmation Signals (Boost Accuracy)

Price Action: Pinbar/Engulfing at D
RSI/MACD Divergence
Volume Surge at Reversal
Trendline/S/R Confluence


6. Crab vs. Butterfly Pattern

FeatureCrab PatternButterfly Pattern
CD Leg1.618 XA1.272 XA
AccuracyVery HighModerate
Risk/RewardExtremeModerate

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Why is the Crab pattern so accurate?

A: Its 1.618 XA extension creates an “extreme” reversal zone where traders aggressively enter.

Q2: Best timeframe for Crab pattern?

A: 4H/Daily charts for highest reliability.

Q3: How to avoid fake Crab patterns?

A: Require at least 2 confirmations (e.g., RSI divergence + bullish candle at D).

Q4: Crab vs. Bat pattern – which is better?

A: Crab has higher reward but lower frequency than Bat.


8. Pro Trading Tips

  • Wait for D point confirmation – Don’t preempt!
  • Combine with trend analysis (e.g., Crab + Downtrend = Strong sell signal)
  • Use partial profit-taking (TP1 at 38.2%, move SL to breakeven)

9. Conclusion

The Crab harmonic pattern is a high-reward, low-frequency strategy ideal for spotting extreme reversals. Key takeaways:
1.618 XA extension is mandatory
Requires multiple confirmations
Works best on higher timeframes

Always Be careful For Economic News .

🚀 For optimal results, practice identifying Crab patterns on historical charts before live trading.

You can Also Depend On Indicator And the Best Is

ON Trade Waves Patterns


Example :

Crab Harmonic Pattern
Crab Harmonic Pattern

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