PATTERN HUNTER Trading Guide
Last updated: February 9, 2026
The Pattern Hunter is a precision reversal indicator that actively scans raw candlestick data to identify high-probability 3-to-4 bar structural patterns. By automating the detection of specific price action formations, it allows traders to systematically trade classic candlestick reversals without relying on subjective chart reading.
What does the indicator show?
- SFP (Swing Failure Pattern): Marks "SFP Buy" or "SFP Sell" when price sweeps a local structural high or low intra-candle, but aggressively rejects and closes back inside the range.
- Three Outside Up/Down: Identifies powerful engulfing continuation patterns where a small candle is followed by a massive engulfing candle, which is then immediately confirmed by a third candle breaking its high/low.
- Morning/Evening Stars: Detects classic 3-bar star reversals at the extremes of a trend, highlighting the exact moment momentum shifts.
Key Settings
- Swing Lookback: Defines how far back the indicator looks to establish the "Swing High" and "Swing Low" used for sweeping (SFP) detection.
- Pattern Toggles: Individual checkboxes allowing you to disable specific patterns (e.g., turn off Stars and Outside bars if you strictly want to trade SFPs).
How to use Strategy Parameters (Condition Source)
Within the Strategy Tester module, you can leverage the discrete signals generated by this indicator to automate setups.
1. Swing Failure Liquidity Sweeps
Trade the most highly-regarded institutional price action pattern: the STOP run.
sfpBuy— Triggers when price sweeps a Swing Low, grabs liquidity, and closes back above it.sfpSell— Triggers when price sweeps a Swing High and immediately rejects it, trapping breakout traders.
Strategy Example: Instruct a bot to only enter short trades on a structural resistance level if an sfpSell pattern concurrently appears.
2. Engulfing and Star Confirmations
Classic candlestick reversals.
outUp/outDown— Fires the moment a Three Outside pattern confirms a change in local trend.mStar/eStar— Triggers exactly on the close of the third candle completing a Morning or Evening star.