Figure-Eight on a Bight
The figure-eight on a bight creates a fixed loop in a rope by folding a bight and tying a figure-eight knot with the doubled rope. It is easy to recognise when tied correctly and is commonly used in established ropework systems. Correct tying, dressing and inspection are essential.
- Knot name
- Figure-Eight on a Bight
- Category
- Loop knot
- Difficulty
- Beginner–Intermediate
- Main purpose
- Creating a fixed loop in a rope
- Knot structure
- Figure-eight formed with a doubled section of rope
- Requires access to rope ends
- No
- Main advantage
- Recognisable shape that can be visually inspected
- Common applications
- Climbing systems, ropework and suitable outdoor tasks
- Adjustability
- Not adjustable once tightened
- Ease of untying
- Can become difficult to untie after heavy loading
- Main limitation
- Can loosen or be tied incorrectly if poorly dressed
- Essential check
- Correct shape, neatly aligned strands and an adequate tail
- Safety consideration
- Life-safety use requires appropriate training and equipment
The figure-eight on a bight is a reliable loop knot used to create a fixed loop in a rope without needing access to either end. It is based on the familiar figure-eight knot, with a doubled section of rope used to form the loop. When tied correctly, the finished knot has a recognisable figure-eight shape and is relatively easy to inspect visually.
This knot is particularly well known in climbing and ropework, where specific versions of the figure-eight knot are used to create attachment loops. In general outdoor skills, it is also useful for learning how knots can form secure loops in cordage. However, its suitability depends on the rope, the application and the way the knot is tied and loaded.
A bight is a folded section of rope that does not include either end. This makes the figure-eight on a bight useful when the rope’s ends are already attached to something, or when you simply want to form a loop partway along a rope.
Although the knot is relatively straightforward to learn, it is important to dress it properly. Crossed strands, an incorrectly formed figure-eight or an insufficient tail can affect the knot’s reliability. For climbing, rescue or other life-safety applications, use only an appropriate, recognised technique and equipment, and obtain practical instruction from a qualified instructor.
How to tie it
- Form a bight - Fold a section of rope back on itself to create a doubled loop of rope. You do not need to pass the rope end through anything.
- Make the first loop - Using the doubled section as though it were the working end, form a loop with the rope. Keep the two strands together as you work.
- Wrap around the standing part - Bring the doubled section around the standing part of the rope, following the path that creates the characteristic figure-eight shape.
- Pass the bight through - Feed the doubled bight back through the original loop. Keep the strands from crossing in unintended places.
- Dress the knot - Arrange the strands so the finished knot forms a clear, even figure-eight pattern. Remove unnecessary gaps and twists.
- Tighten and inspect - Tighten the knot evenly and check its shape, strand alignment and remaining tail. If the pattern is unclear or the knot is crossed, untie it and start again.
Common mistakes
- Forming the wrong knot: The finished structure should be a figure-eight, not a simple overhand knot.
- Passing the bight through the wrong opening: This can produce an incorrect or poorly formed knot.
- Crossing the strands unnecessarily: Crossed or twisted strands can make the knot harder to inspect and dress correctly.
- Leaving the knot loose: Large gaps can make the finished knot less tidy and potentially less reliable.
- Tightening one strand more than the other: Uneven tightening can distort the figure-eight shape.
- Leaving an insufficient tail: The required tail length depends on the rope and the specific application; follow the relevant system's instructions.
- Failing to inspect the finished knot: Never assume it is correct just because it resembles a figure-eight.
- Using it for an unsuitable purpose: A correctly tied knot is not automatically suitable for every load, rope type or safety-critical task.
- Assuming it will untie easily: After substantial loading, the knot can become difficult to release.
The figure-eight on a bight is only as dependable as its tying, the rope and the system in which it is used. Inspect the knot before use, ensure it is properly dressed, and follow the required tail-length and inspection procedures for your application.
Never rely on a knot learned from a written guide alone for climbing, life support, rescue or suspending a person. These uses require recognised training, suitable equipment and checks by a competent person. For ordinary bushcraft tasks, also consider the consequences if the loop slips, the rope fails or the attachment point gives way.