Page 66 - Randy Penn Everything Knots Book

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STOPPER KNOTS

3 Tighten the knot by pulling on both ends.

If you wish to use the Figure Eight Knot as a stopper knot, modify
Step 2 by pulling the standing part while pressing against the base of
the knot on that side. When the Figure Eight Knot and similar stopper
knots are tightened this way, the running end will point to the side at
a right angle.
The Figure Eight Knot is frequently used as a basis for other knots.
It is much easier to untie than the Overhand Knot, and is not as dam-
aging to rope fibers. Because the Figure Eight Knot has a distinctive
“figure eight” look, it’s easy to check to make sure it’s tied correctly.
This is one of the reasons it is popular with rescue work. It is used on
the running rigging of sailboats to keep lines from running all the way
through leads and pulleys.

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