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Useful Knots and How to Tie Them...
It occurred to me that "what good's a rope if one cannot use it?". Based upon this thought, I am going to run a series on knots, hitches, and general rope use.
I don't know about you, but over the years I've had to use many of these knots and hitches. Nevertheless, since I don't tie then on a daily basis, I forget how and it's always when I need that darned knot the most that my memory takes a dump on me (thank God for zippers aye?).
Thank you, again, to Mr. John Hartenburg of Knot & Rope Supply for allowing me the use of his knot files.
BTW folks, this was truly kind as John sells these in sets. The "Pro-Knot Knot Card Set" and the "Fisherman's Ultimate Knot Guide Set" go for $5.95 each and are water and dirt proof plastic, plus they come on a ring so they're easy to index and hard to lose!
I would also like to thank Animated Knots by Grog for the outstanding video tutorials.
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NOTE: In an effort to maintain clarity, I will continue to add-on to, or modify, this post as instead of a multitude of thread replies. So check in periodically for further information - Thank you.-------------------------------------
Here's some basic rope/knot nomenclature which may assist you (this is from my notes, original source unknown):RUNNING END, FREE END, or BITTER END - is the short end of the line: this will be used for actually tying the knot.
STANDING END - this is the long end of the line, the static end of the rope: this will be under load.
BIGHT - is an open curve in a line or the main part of the rope from the running end to the standing end.
LOOP or EYE - when a bight is closed (that is, when it crosses the line).
OVERHAND LOOP - a loop passing over the standing part.
UNDERHAND LOOP - a loop passing under the standing part.
TWIST - sort of self explanatory: the line is twisted around another.
STOPPER KNOT - used to stop the end of a rope fraying, or to stop it running through a small hole or constriction.
BEND- is used to tie two ropes together.
HITCH - is used to tie a rope to a log, spar,or post.
DRESS - upon completion of the knot; making sure it is correct and all proper so it will function as intended.
SET - after dressing the knot; tighten it prior to usage so it will function as intended and not slip at initial load.
WHIP - securing the end of a line (with a light cord aka "whip cord") to prevent the fibres of the rope from unraveling. Sealing this wit paint, varnish, or nail polish is advised. With synthetic line this can be accomplished by melting, though for heavier line, 3/8-inch and up, I'd still whip it.
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I thought perhaps it best to do a tutorial on whipping a line. Should you get a length of rope to practice these knots with, this would be the first thing you'll want to do.Thanks to The Inquiry Net! This is a Boy Scout website with an astonishing amount of information...I highly recommend it.
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Whipping: Common or Simple
Ropes are made up of a number of strands twisted together. If the cut end is left un-whipped, the rope will fray or untwist, and loose strength. Being thrifty, Scouts, 'Whip' or bind the ends of ropes, this prevents fraying and prolongs the life of the rope.
Lay whipping twine on rope to form a loop (Diagram A). Bind twine around to trap loop (Diagram B). Continue with neat, tight bindings until the length of whipping is equal (about) 3 times the diameter of the rope (Diagram C). Working end of twine should then pass through the end of loop (C). Pull hard on the other end of the twine so that the working end is drawn and trapped under the binding, (Diagram D). Cut off loose ends, roll whipping under foot.
You should have a tight, neat whipping that will stop the end of the rope fraying.
Nylon and other man-made fiber ropes are better sealed using flame to melt fibers together; can also be bound using Back-splice or Sail-makers' whipping.
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The Bowline
For the first knot in this series I thought the Bowline would be appropriate. This is an extremely useful knot as it is secure and can be untied with ease. It is also one that I actually remember how to do.
Uses for the Bowline (pronounced bo' lin}include rescue type work, lifting objects, and stock handling etc, where a non-slipping loop is needed. When life is at stake I recommend securing the tail with a double half hitch to preclude any slippage though this is minimal (belt and suspenders...get it?). Once you learn the Bowline, and with a little creative thinking, you'll see the many uses for it, it is a "safe" and reliable knot.
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Trucker's Hitch
This knot, or hitch which is the correct term, was chosen for it's obvious utility. Whether its to tarp down something or secure a load of logs this is, I am sure, one hitch you will use.
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Tautline Hitch
Anytime you need to draw a line taut and have it remain so, this is the hitch to use. The tautline hitch is great for tarping down a load or log pile, pitching those party or lawn tents, and dozens of other household and outdoor uses. It's one of those useful bits that, once you start using it, you'll wonder how you ever managed without it...
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Double Fisherman's Knot
Another handy and simple knot to have in one's repertoire, the description in the picture says it all.
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Timber Hitch
The timber hitch is often used in towing logs or other cylindrical objects. These can be towed lengthwise by adding one or more half hitches to the timber hitch. The timber hitch is formed by making a half hitch and then winding the end around the loop.
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Sheet Bend and Double Sheet Bend
Aside from the stated purpose, there are a few other uses for this particular bend. As well, one can also try a triple sheet bend is security is desired. Note when using this there is a direction of pull...
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Bowline on a Bight and a Running Bowline
These are the last two knots I'll be posting unless someone comes up with some ideas as to other handy and useful knots or hitches.
These two are directly related to the Bowline (above) so if you can tie that these are a lead-pipe cinch to do. Their usefulness if obviously great.
This is the best knot to adopt when you want one that is absolutely secure but has a loop of variable diameter. This is probably the best slip knot around.
http://www.video.com/watch?v=CDZOYUZabV4 http://www.video.com/watch?v=D1m-tr6OAPo
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Clove Hitch
Used as a traditional hitch, that is loading only one end, the clove hitch is liable to slip. It requires a load in each direction in order to be effective, such as when being used as a crossing knot. It should not be relied on with rope that is thin or very slippery, as it can work itself loose, especially under a swinging or rotating load. However, for this very reason, the knot is useful in situations where a the length of the running end needs to be adjustable.
One quick method of tying, shown above, involves picking up the line with your right arm crossed over your left, palms down. Uncross your arms and then move the left loop behind the right loop. Throw the completed hitch over the end of a post or beam and work it snug.
http://www.video.com/watch?v=shTbWHxYiWk http://www.video.com/watch?v=pMRTmEZ4-JU
http://www.video.com/watch?v=pwdZTHu5rTI
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[b]Hangman's Knot or Politician
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