Knots and Hitches

Reef Knot

The reef knot is used for tying two ropes of equal thickness together. Can also be used for tying the reefing points on a sail when the wind blows up and used to tie a triangular bandage.

Clove hitch

The clove hitch can be used for starting a square lashing. Only good when there is tension on both sides of the knot.

Bowline

The bowline is a rescue and/or safety knot. You can tie the loop around you when you are hillwalking but an extra knot is required. Care should be taken when tying this knot.

Sheet Bend

The sheet bend is used for tying two ropes of the same thickness together. Like the reef knot except it is a stronger knot (can remain tied under increased pressure).

Double Sheet Bend

The double sheet bend is used where there is a difference in the thicknesses of the ropes to tie the knot. It can also be used on similar ropes for extra strength.

Figure of Eight Knot

The figure of eight knot is a stopper knot (it stops end of rope running through eye). The figure of eight is used mostly at the end of a sailing sheet (rope) to stop the rope going through the eye when the sheet is flying loosely.

Overhand Knot

The overhand knot is another stopper knot. This is the easiest way to tie a stopper knot. Other use: tying a plastic bag.

Stevedore Knot

The stevedore knot is a stopper knot. Works better than the overhand knot and is easier to untie after the knot has been tightened.

Sheepshank Knot

The sheepshank knot is used for shortening a rope. This is the traditional method of tying the knot. There is another faster way of tying the knot.

Sheepshank Knot (Fast)

This sheepshank knot is again for shortening a rope. It is a faster way of tying the knot. It is easy to tie this incorrectly so care must be taken when tying this knot in competitions.

Rolling Hitch

For use on a spar or thick rope where it is likely to be pulled at an angle along the spar and/or rope.

Round Turn and Two Half Hitches Knot

The round turn and two half hitches knot is used for securing a rope to a spar. Has good strength. Ideal for tying a hammock to a tree.

Fisherman's Bend

The Fisherman's Bend knot is a knot for tying a warp (rope) to an anchor. It is tied in such a way that it prevents the rope from wearing at the knot itself.

Fireman's Chair

The fireman's chair knot is a rescue knot. There are two loops formed. One which goes under the arms; the other under the legs of person. Care should be taken when tying this knot.

Bowline-on-the-Bight

The bowline on the bight is a rescue knot. There are two loops formed. One which goes under the arms; the other under the legs of person. The two ropes leading to the knot are used in the following manner: one is used to lower person and the other, is to keep person away from hill face. Care should be taken when tying this knot.