Climbers have a tendency to use our normal collection of climbing knots for non-climbing applications. That’s a big step up from a long series of half hitches, but we can do better. Consider this a ‘Select’ collection of knots that will take you a bit further.
Trucker’s Hitch
Need to tighten up a line, but want to take it down later? Trucker’s hitch. If you construct it with two slip knots, you just have to tug twice to release it later. The classic application of this knot is securing loads, hence the name.
If you’re worried about it releasing by accident, either feed the tail through the last bight, or tie off the last bight with an overhand.
This hitch is gold for hammocks and tarps. You don’t have to own a Tacoma to use it, but it does help.
Trucker’s Hitch on AnimatedKnots.com
Mooring Hitch
Tying cord around something like a tree? The mooring hitch is an easy-to-tie quick-to-release knot. If you dress it well it doesn’t even need to be snugged up to the tree.
Again, gold for hammocks and tarps. Mooring hitch around the tree, trucker’s hitch to snug up the hammock/tarp side.
Mooring Hitch on AnimatedKnots.com
The Tumble Hitch is a fancier knot for similar applications, but generally it’s advantages aren’t important in these contexts.
Tumble Hitch on AnimatedKnots.com
Zeppelin Bend (“69 Knot”)
Got some shorter lengths of cord you need to join? You could do a sheet bend, flat overhand, or a square knot, but none are as easy to untie after they’ve been loaded as the zeppelin bend.
This knot is actually quite simple to tie once you know it.
Zeppelin Bend on AnimatedKnots.com
Constrictor Hitch
Making a leash for something like a rotary hammer? Sending a drill bit up on a tag line? Girth hitches and cloves just don’t stay that snug. The constrictor holds remarkably well.
Constrictor Knot (Rope End Method) on AnimatedKnots.com
Constrictor Knot (Folding Method) on AnimatedKnots.com
Faster Bowlines
Sometimes it might be easier to just hammer out a quick bowline (perhaps around a tree), but there’s a faster way than what’s typically taught.
Start with a slip knot, stick a tail through, and pull. Boom. Bowline.
The “Snap Bowline” on AlpineSavvy.com
Paracord 550
Not every knot needs to be a clove hitch, and not everything needs to be strung up with accessory cord. Paracord is cheaper and super strong enough. The ‘550’ just means 550 pounds, there are other strengths.
Buy some for non-safety, less than bodyweight situations. Think: Tarps, gear hangs, loops for racking small tools.
Don’t rappel off it. Do I need to say that? I hope not. I’m going to say it anyway. Don’t use it as bail tat. I know you’re thinking about it, guy who keeps making v-threads with shoelaces.
