Page 176 - Buck Tilton - Outward Bound Ropes, Knots, and Hitches 2 ed.

Bring the working end fully around the standing
part.

The buntline hitch would be more accurately named a

noose, since it slides on the line after being tied, but it is
used for jobs that require a hitch. It could be described as a

clove hitch (see page 24) with the working end tied around
the standing part. On sailing ships the buntline was

attached to the bottom of sails so they could be drawn up to
spill the wind. The hitch, therefore, needed to be secure.
This knot tends to jam, so it works in places where a strong

hitch is needed. Since it does sometimes jam, do not use
this knot when the hitch needs to be untied quickly. This

knot may also be used by campers and climbers who need
to suspend gear or to tie it down in less than ideal

conditions, such as a high wind.