Page 10 - Maria Constantino "The Knot Handbook"
P. 10
One of the main reasons for selecting one
kn ot rather than another is the relative
strength of the knot. Knot strengths are of
particular importance to climbers, who wi!J z
-I
favour bulky knots with several wrappmg ::a
0
turns. These types of knots are designed to c
c
absorb strain and to avoid weakening the n
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rope. Climbers routinely check their knots on
The term 'rope' properly describes a 0
a climb, especially when stiff rope is used, product over I Omm (Y12 inches) in diameter. z
because it is more difficult to tie, being less
£lexible. Consequently, climbers check regu- a tow line or a life line. Sometimes, son1e lines
larly to make sure that their knots are secure. have even more specific names: a lightweight
Other factors that influence knot choice are throwing or heaving line that is used to haul a
the speed and ease of tying, the size of knot heavier line across a gap - such as from the
and the reliability of the knot. deck of a boat, across the water to the jetty -
is known as a messenger.
Learning the ropes
Understanding the properties of rope and
knowing how to keep it in good condition Anything smaller than
I Omm (Y12 inches) is
are essential to the knot-tyer. The word 'rope'
classified as cord, twine
is generalJy defined as meaning any plaited, or thread. The strength
of fine cord can be
braided or laid (that is, in strands) product
increased by plaiting.
over 10111111 (Yi2 inches) in diameter. (There are
some exceptions, however, as some specialised
climbing ropes are 9mm (Yx inches) in diame-
ter.) Anything smaller is called cord, twine, or
thread.
R ope and cord are known collectively as
cordage, but are also often referred to as stuff
When rope or cord is used to do a particular
job, it becomes a line, such as a washing line,