Knots

[35Remington]

I would like to start a healthy reference thread on knots. Many of us are in the field often enough that it would make a big difference learning a better way to get it done. So, if you have a knot, share it with us, tell us what you use it for, and explain how to tie it. Let's try to keep it all in-house, so no links to other websites with tying explanations. Just include it in your reply. Embedding a video might be the most helpful way.

Easiest way to maintain uniformity might be to quote Post #2 and add your words.

 

[35Remington]

Knot: Tautline Hitch
Uses: Tying stuff down on the trailer, pitching tents, etc.
Steps: See Pic or video
Comment: I use this knot more than any other. Its best feature is that it holds snug while still being adjustable. Does not work as well with nylon rope.

 

[Army 1911]

Other than the obvious square and overhand, the best knots I know for the field (most useful) are:
Bowline
Bowline on a Bight
Running Bowline
Clove Hitch
Taughtline Hitch
Sheeps Bend

The running bowline is for nooses, lariats and such.
The Clove Hitch is great for tying boats and similar uses.
The Taughtline Hitch works for keeping tension on a line as it will not loosen with tension on the line and is adjustable.
Thse Sheeps Bend is for joining two lines or ropes of different sizes.
Bowline is your basic lifesaving knot that won't come undone or strangle someone.
Boline on a bight can be used to make a seat with back support for various things.

Get the Boy Scout Knot tying merit badge book.
Also useful is learning how to properly lash things together. You can make tables, chairs and varous camp furniture if you can lash.

 

[Dawico]

If you can't tie a knot, tie a lot. That is my motto.

 

[Dawico]

The best knot I ever learned is for tying hooks onto fishing line. Double your line over, pinch the loop together and push it through the hook eye. Then take the loop and tie it to itself and push the hook through the loop. Pull it tight and commence the fish slaughter. The secret ingredient is spit. Get the line wet before you pull it tight so it doesn't burn itself when tightened. I have no idea what it is called. I will have to find a video for it. It is super simple and will not come loose. Also you end up with double line through the hook eye.

 

[35Remington]

Other than the obvious square and overhand, the best knots I know for the field (most useful) are:
Bowline
Bowline on a Bight
Running Bowline
Clove Hitch
Taughtline Hitch
Sheeps Bend

The running bowline is for nooses, lariats and such.
The Clove Hitch is great for tying boats and similar uses.
The Taughtline Hitch works for keeping tension on a line as it will not loosen with tension on the line and is adjustable.
Thse Sheeps Bend is for joining two lines or ropes of different sizes.
Bowline is your basic lifesaving knot that won't come undone or strangle someone.
Boline on a bight can be used to make a seat with back support for various things.

Get the Boy Scout Knot tying merit badge book.
Also useful is learning how to properly lash things together. You can make tables, chairs and varous camp furniture if you can lash.

Well, so much for sticking to form. Great info here, though. Still have my Boy Scout handbook from those days, and being an Eagle Scout, I remember most my knots. Your comments will be helpful for others though.

 

[35Remington]

The best knot I ever learned is for tying hooks onto fishing line. Double your line over, pinch the loop together and push it through the hook eye. Then take the loop and tie it to itself and push the hook through the loop. Pull it tight and commence the fish slaughter. The secret ingredient is spit. Get the line wet before you pull it tight so it doesn't burn itself when tightened. I have no idea what it is called. I will have to find a video for it. It is super simple and will not come loose. Also you end up with double line through the hook eye.

That's called the Palomar. It is awesome b/c it maintains almost 100% line strength. All knots decrease line strength somewhat; the key is finding one that does it least.

 

[Dawico]

Thank you sir. I love that knot for fishing line.