Page 13 - The Pocket Guide to Equine Knots

A finished square knot.

A granny knot.

Square Knot with Slip Loop

Working on various ranches, when ropes, horses, and livestock dominate everyday life, the
most common knot I have used has been a square knot with a slip loop. This variation is
handy for tying a rope around an object, making for a quicker release. Start with the first
half of a regular square knot. Then, on the top half, create a bight (loop) to wrap, rather
than a single end. Unless significant pressure has been put on the knot, it’s quick to untie by

pulling the end of the slip loop. Since at sea “shaking out a reef,” or freeing the sail for more
area and speed, had to be done quickly, this knot is also known as the “slipped reef knot,”
because it can be untied quickly.

A square knot with a slip loop.