July 31st, 2010
Anno Societatis XLV
DRACO INVICTUS!
12 Knots Every SCAdian Should Know (The Short Course)
Written by: Lrd. Eidiard An Gobhainn, O.W., A.P.F., O.G.R. Added 6 Sep 2006
Here we have 12 fairly basic knots. Some of them seem complex other quite simple. But the knowledge of how to handle a rope and tie simple knots can only make your life easier but can even save a life. When you start do not concern yourself too much with the applications of the knots, they will become evident. Sometimes several knots are good for the same job. If you have a working knowledge of knots it is much easier to adapt to your needs than try to make something adapt to what you want to do.
How many knots are there? Well, Ashley’s Book of Knots (considered to be "The Work" on knots) lists well over 10,000.
At the end of this article is a selection of fine web links and a glossary of terms.
1. Overhand Knot
This is one of the most basic of knots. From this you can construct several other, more useful knots. It will not by itself hold a load, but in combination with other knots can stop it from pulling free. If you cannot tie this, leave now.
2. Square knot
The square knot is not only one of the most commonly tied knots, but one of the most commonly tied incorrectly. This knot is able to tie together two unequal sized ropes but should not be used for load bearing without having the ends tied off. A square knot tied wrong is called a granny knot.
3. Bowline (or Bolin)
A relative of the slipknot this is a good knot for securing a line to a bight or when you need a loop that will not collapse. One of the advantages of the bowline knot is that even under great loads when slacked it can be untied.
4. Half hitch
As shown this knot is being used to control a post or other round object. It is a direct relative of the overhand knot with just one minor variation. It gains its strength by being under load to trap the free end of the line. This is not recommended for large loads as it may actually shear the line.
5. Barrel knot
This is another simple knot with many uses. It can be used to stop a rope pulling through another object or to stop a rope from fraying. This knot can also be tied to the end of a line to add mass to aid in throwing the rope further than you could without the added mass.
6. Chain hitch
This knot (or series of knots more accurately) is a collection of overhand knots. This can let you pull objects like cables, ropes, logs, oars or masts. The knot is a series that tends to distribute the load over the length of the knotted area.
7. 2-Handed / 3-Handed Masthead
This is the most complicated of the knots we will cover, but in its two forms one that is very useful. Many times only the two handed is needed. Remember one front, one back! If your confused by this you’re reading ahead, now stop it!
8. Larks head
Also called a Ram’s Head knot or a Cinch. This is good for storing the rope or to provide two lash points for other lines. There are two methods to tie this one, depending on application at the time.
9. Lariat Loop
This is another method of putting a loop that will not collapse in the end of a line. The advantage of this one is that it holds the loop open. It is best tied in the end of a line with a small loop no more that 4 times the ropes diameter.
10. Clove Hitch
A good knot for a line under load, the clove hitch is easy to tie. Unfortunately, by itself it is unreliable if the load is lightened even slightly. Good for suspending multiple objects from a single line. This, like many knots can be used for decorative work.
11. Dual Half Hitch (Slider)
An excellent knot for use with not only ships, but also with tents, as it is adjustable without untying the knot itself. Used with a bight it is strong once set, even without a load. Notice the Lark’s Head knot? This is a fast way to lash off to a cleat.
12. Fisherman’s Knot
Great for joining two lines but a bear to get untied if it has been under load. Tie it once, tie it forever! See the overhand knots?
References:
Online references:
Mega-Resources for Scout Leaders
Books:
Ashley’s Book of Knots by Clifford Ashley Publisher: Doubleday; Reissue edition (June 21, 1944)
The Boy Scouts of America Handbook Publisher: Boy Scouts of America; 11th Edition First Printing edition (1998)
The US Navy Boatswain's Mate 3 & 2 Navy Training Course Navpers 10121-C
Glossary:
- Bight:
A point that a line may be secured, usually round like a post or a pole.
- Cleat:
An object, usually of metal, used as a point to secure a line.
- Knot:
A method of causing a line, by friction, to perform a specific action or lack thereof.
- Lash:
To tie or a place to tie a line.
- Line:
A cord or rope for securing things.
- Load Bearing:
A line or rope that must bear the weight or force generated by an object.
- Slacked:
A line that is not under load.
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