Page 269 - Bob Holtzman "The Field Guide to Knots How to Identify, Tie, and Untie Over 80 Essential Knots for Outdoor Pursuits"

Part Five

Loop Knots

Loop knots are easy enough to understand, but difficult to define precisely.
Like hitches, they are tied to fit around objects (or people), but they are not
intended to bind objects together (that’s the job of binding knots). Loop
knots may be tied at the end of a rope or anywhere along its length (on a

bight). They may be of a fixed size or they may be adjustable. Unlike a
hitch, which is tied on an object and depends upon that object for its
structure, loop knots may be tied in the rope itself and then placed on the
object when finished. Loop knots are useful for lifting and pulling objects
and, in the form of a safety harness or bosun’s chair, to lift or secure people
as well. (Observe all safety recommendations in this book when using rope
for these purposes.) A pair of interconnected loop knots can also be used in

place of a bend to make a strong and durable connection between the ends
of two ropes.

26. Double Overhand Loop

Uses: lifting, hauling, hanging gear from
doubled line

Pros: easy to tie; works well with small stuff

Cons: difficult to untie; only appropriate on a
bight

27. Figure 8 Loop

Uses: lifting, pulling, hanging loop for gear; tie-in point for climbers
Pros: easy to tie in rope of any thickness; fairly easy to untie; very strong

Cons: not as easy to untie as a Bowline

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