I have been getting a few messages and comments lately asking me about the knot that I keep referring to in random posts, blog entries and YouTube videos. So, I figured I would take a few minutes today to do a video and show everyone the knot. However, I would like to say that I actually came across this knot on another YouTube video entitled “Small selection of knots used in bushcraft” by the user “maveraver,” and have been using it since. (I suggest checking out his video for a few other knot selections as well…)
So, to begin with, why do I use this knot as opposed to say, lineloc’s? Well, here are a few reasons:
- This knot is very easy to tie.
- This knot is even easier to untie.
- This knot just works.
- This knot is lighter than lineloc’s.
- A knot cannot “break” (unless, maybe, it is tied wrong…)
The real benefits of using this knot for me is that I can easily, and quickly, adjust the tension on my lines when using this knot, which comes in handy when setting up my shelters (especially silnylon shelters). As well, I have found that this knot works well with a wide range of different diameter cords, although, when using cords with smaller diameters (such as the LiteTrail GLine) in windy situations, or cords with slick coatings, it is helpful to throw a half-hitch or 2 after setting the tension on the cord.
Don’t get me wrong, I really enjoy the LineLoc 3′s and am looking forward to getting my new Yama Mountain Gear Cirriform SW tent, which comes with these loaded, but when I am looking to cut weight, well, LineLoc’s are redundant, and therefore, useless weight. I will admit though, I have never been much of a fan of the smaller cord locks.
Anyway, I am sure that there are situations in which this “adjustable knot” may not be the best option, however, for everything I have been using knots for, it has been just fine. As well, I am sure that this knot has a different name, but I am not aware of what it is… so if anyone else maybe knows a more “technical” name, feel free to share…
Thanks for watching everyone, and hope this helps some!
~Stick~
Dude! That’s a tautline hitch with quick release loop. Here you go: http://www.netknots.com/rope_knots/tautline-hitch
Thanks Brian! Now, don’t I feel dumb…
Thanks for the link too!
NO! I know plenty of people that call it an adjustable knot – that’s exactly what it is. You asked for someone to provide the real name if they knew it. Super useful knot, nice video.
Haha… thanks again Brian… Really though, I do need to learn my knots a bit better…
Have used it for yrs, works great
Lots of good info here. And there is an app available so if you have your smart phone with you you can be a knot wiz.
http://www.animatedknots.com/
Thanks Ken!
That exactly way I tie my tarp to the tree, except I didn’t add a quick release. I’ll definitely be making the quick release! Thanks!
Glad it could be of some help!
~Stick~
A proper Taut Line Hitch has two wraps inside the loop and one outside. You can add a third wrap inside for extra security or if the cord is slippery (like Dyneema or Zing It). Like you mention, adding the looped half-hitch as the final hitch is nice so that the knot is “quick release”. Good video Stick.
Thanks Scott. That is a good point about throwing a third wrap inside… I will have to give that a try sometime since I do like using this super small diameter cord…
~Stick~
That is not a taut-line hitch. It’s a slipped adjustable grip hitch (http://www.survivalworld.com/knots/adjustable-grip-hitch.html) Notice in the last step they bring the line all the way through instead of just the bight you pull through. That’s what makes it slipped.
Thanks for the link Dan!
~Stick~
Yes, like Scott says, three loops first is often what I use. It grips much tighter and doesn’t slip as much when getting pounded on by wind. It does make it a little harder to adjust though.
Also, check out the prusik knot. It has lots of other good uses for backpackers and is also adjustable.
Steve,
I actually used the prusik knot on the front beak of my Hexamid (that I just sold…) It really is a great knot too!
~Stick~
how long will it take to get your yuma? why did you decide on this tent?
Rick,
I just got an email notification about an hour ago that the Yama tent shipped, which means it will be in the mail tomorrow. So, it should be here by the middle of end of the week, however, I will be gone for the weekend on a hike, so I won’t have anything up about it until the next week…
~Stick~