Taut-line hitch
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The taut-line hitch is type of knot, being a modified version of the two half hitches.
Uses
It is useful for tensioning lines where the tension may need to be periodically readjusted. It is typically used to secure loads on vehicles, and to secure tent lines.
The taut-line hitch does not work well with some modern synthetic lines that are excessively slick or which do not knot well, though it can usually be made to function by tying more than the basic three half-hitches.
The taut-line hitch is used in arboriculture to climb trees. The climber grips the tree with his legs, thrusts his pelvis upwards and pushes the knot up the rope. To descend the climber merely has to pull downwards on the knot.
Tying the taut-line hitch
- Pass the line from the load, loop it around the anchor, and take the free end and loop it around in a half-hitch; that is, loop it around the standing line and pass it through the loop formed.
- Then pass it through the loop again in the same direction, so that there are two passes of the line through the loop.
- Then tie another half-hitch on top of this. Pass the free end around the standing line above (i.e. away from the load) the hitches just tied, going over the standing line again. Then pass it through the loop formed and tighten.
See also
- Two half-hitches: similar to the taut-line, but with two loops instead of three
- Trucker's hitch: a more complex knot, useful for higher tension and stability
- List of knots
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