Written by

Craig Caudill

Quick and Dirty Knot Tying

One of the most useful skill sets to own in any outdoor situation is knowing how to use rope.  Most of us are doing good if we know how to tie a “bow knot” on our shoes.  We thought it would make for a good series of videos if we showed you the basics of using, and storing rope.  We will also include some incredibly useful knots in this series.

Our first video on the subject includes three useful ways of tying off to a tree, post or other vertical apparatus.

Timber Hitch

The first method is what most folks refer to as a timber hitch.  This is incredibly easy to put on and to untie.  However, if you pull the rope at the wrong angle you will untie your knot, so make sure you watch how I demonstrate that in the video.

Half Hitches (with round turn on the bottom)

The second method that is use to tie off to the tree is by using two half-hitches.  These are really easy to complete and if you watch later in the video, you will notice that I also show you how to do this with a slip-knot to make it an easy release.  I also show you how to do this with a little more strength by wrapping the rope around the tree twice as well.  This is referred to as round turn with two half-hitches.

The last method that I show is a clove hitch and it too easy with practice and is incredibly secure.  I use this one alot when setting triggers on snare traps.

So with these drawings and the video, I hope we have you off to a good start with ropes and knots.  Until next time, I hope to see you on, or off, the trail!