Survival Tricks

Knowing how to tie a variety of knots is a critical skill for any survivalist. Knots can be used for building shelters, securing gear, climbing, and many other tasks. This guide covers essential knots every survivalist should master.

1. Bowline Knot

The bowline knot is a reliable and strong knot that creates a fixed loop at the end of a rope. It's easy to tie and untie, even after bearing a heavy load.

Steps to Tie a Bowline Knot:

1. Make a Loop: Create a small loop, leaving enough rope on the working end.
2. Thread the End: Pass the working end through the loop from underneath.
3. Wrap Around: Wrap the working end around the standing part of the rope.
4. Return Through the Loop: Pass the working end back through the loop.
5. Tighten: Pull the standing part to tighten the knot.

2. Square Knot

The square knot, also known as a reef knot, is used for joining two ropes of equal thickness. It's ideal for securing bandages, bundles, and packages.

Steps to Tie a Square Knot:

1. Right Over Left: Pass the right end over and under the left end.
2. Left Over Right: Pass the left end over and under the right end.
3. Tighten: Pull both ends to tighten the knot.

3. Clove Hitch

The clove hitch is a simple and effective knot for securing a rope to a post, tree, or other anchor. It's quick to tie and adjustable.

Steps to Tie a Clove Hitch:

1. First Loop: Pass the rope around the anchor point, crossing over itself.
2. Second Loop: Pass the rope around the anchor point again, crossing under the first loop.
3. Tighten: Pull both ends to tighten the knot.

4. Taut-Line Hitch

The taut-line hitch is an adjustable knot used for tensioning a line, such as a tent guyline. It holds securely under tension but can be adjusted easily.

Steps to Tie a Taut-Line Hitch:

1. First Loop: Wrap the working end around the standing part of the rope, creating a loop.
2. Second Loop: Wrap the working end around the standing part again, inside the first loop.
3. Third Loop: Wrap the working end around the standing part outside the first loop.
4. Tighten: Pull the knot tight and slide it to adjust tension.

5. Figure-Eight Knot

The figure-eight knot is a strong and secure knot often used in climbing and rescue operations. It creates a loop that won't slip or jam.

Steps to Tie a Figure-Eight Knot:

1. Make a Loop: Create a loop near the end of the rope.
2. Form an Eight: Pass the working end over the standing part, then under and through the loop.
3. Tighten: Pull both ends to tighten the knot, forming a figure-eight shape.

6. Sheet Bend

The sheet bend is used for joining two ropes of different thicknesses. It's secure and easy to untie, even after bearing a heavy load.

Steps to Tie a Sheet Bend:

1. Form a Loop: Create a loop with the thicker rope.
2. Thread the End: Pass the working end of the thinner rope through the loop.
3. Wrap Around: Wrap the working end around the back of the loop.
4. Tuck Under: Tuck the working end under itself.
5. Tighten: Pull both ends to tighten the knot.

7. Prusik Knot

The Prusik knot is a friction hitch used in climbing and rescue situations. It can slide along the rope when not under load but holds firmly when weighted.

Steps to Tie a Prusik Knot:

1. Wrap Around: Wrap a loop of cord around the main rope three times.
2. Thread Through Loop: Pass the loop through itself.
3. Tighten: Pull the loop tight around the main rope, creating friction.

Conclusion

Mastering these essential knots will enhance your survival skills and make you more versatile in a variety of situations. Practice tying these knots regularly to build muscle memory and ensure you can tie them quickly and efficiently when needed. Whether you're building a shelter, securing gear, or performing a rescue, these knots will serve you well.