Page 92 - The Pocket Guide to Outdoor Knots

ZEPPELIN BEND (OR ROSENDAHL’S KNOT)

Purpose

Also known as Rosendahl’s knot (see Knotlore below), this is a reliable heavy-
duty alternative to Hunter’s bend, and is preferable to it when the load is likely

to be applied while the knot is still loose. Hunter’s bend needs to be worked into

shape before it is loaded, whereas this knot will pull up into a compact form of
its own accord.

Tying #1
Some find this method of tying the bend easier. Hold both working ends parallel

and together (figure 1). Tie a half-hitch in the nearest strand, so that it encloses
the other one (figure 2). Now bring the standing part of that second strand

forward, as shown (figures 2–3) and tuck its working end through the central
compartment common to both cords (figure 4). The completed knot (figure 5) is

symmetrical, with ends protruding from it at right-angles to the standing parts of

both lines. This tying method was devised by Ettrick W. Thomson of Suffolk,
England, to overcome the somewhat awkward way in which Rosendahl’s knot
was originally taught.

Tying #2

Form two loops and overlap them (figure 6), tucking the working ends to create
a pair of interlocked overhand knots (figure 7). Tighten the knot (figure 8). This

tying method was another of those first described by Dr. Harry Asher in A New
System of Knotting—Vol. 1 (1986) and then published in The Alternative Knot

Book (1989).