Learn essential basic knots for Scouts, camping and outdoor activities, with clear guidance on tying, checking and using useful knots safely and effectively.
The Prusik knot is a friction hitch that allows a loop of cord to grip a larger rope when loaded and slide along it when the load is released. It is an important ropework knot because it demonstrates how friction can be used to create…
The double fisherman’s knot is a compact knot used to join two ends of rope or cord. It is particularly useful with cord of similar diameter and is commonly used when a secure, relatively compact join is required. The knot consists of two identical stopper…
The figure eight on a bight is a useful way to create a fixed loop in the middle or at the end of a rope. Unlike a basic figure eight stopper knot, this version creates a loop that can be used for attaching or connecting…
The rolling hitch is a useful knot for attaching one rope to another rope, pole or similar object. Its main advantage is that it can grip against a lengthwise pull, making it useful when you need to take tension from one line with another. It…
The trucker’s hitch is a useful rope system for creating adjustable tension. It is commonly used when securing loads, tightening guy lines and tensioning ropes where a firm pull is needed. Unlike a simple hitch, the trucker’s hitch uses a loop in the rope to…
The taut-line hitch is an adjustable knot that allows you to change the tension in a rope without completely untying it. It is particularly useful for guy lines, such as those used with tents and shelters, because the rope can be moved to increase or…
The timber hitch is a useful knot for attaching a rope to a log, pole or other long object. It grips the object when the rope is under tension and can be released easily when the tension is removed. It is particularly useful for dragging,…
The round turn and two half hitches is a reliable way to attach a rope to a post, tree, ring or other suitable anchor. The round turn takes the main load around the object, while the two half hitches secure the working end of the…
The figure eight knot is a simple and useful stopper knot. It creates a larger knot at the end of a rope, helping to prevent the rope from accidentally passing through a hole, ring or other opening. It is easy to recognise and provides a…
The sheet bend is a useful knot for joining two ropes together, particularly when the ropes are different sizes. Unlike a reef knot, which is intended for joining similar-sized ropes and can be unreliable when used with significantly different ropes, the sheet bend is designed…
The bowline is one of the most useful knots for creating a fixed loop at the end of a rope. The loop does not tighten when the rope is loaded, and the knot can usually be untied relatively easily afterwards. It is a valuable knot…
The clove hitch is a useful knot for attaching a rope to a post, pole, tree or other suitable object. It is quick to tie and easy to adjust, making it particularly useful for temporary attachments. It is important to understand how the rope passes…
