Page 37 - Cliff Jacobson - Knots for the Outdoors
P. 37
FIGURE 16. FIGURE EIGHT (END) KNOT
Use this beautifully symmetric knot as a “stopper” knot on the end of a rope. It functions
like an overhand knot, but with more bulk. The knot also makes a convenient slip-noose for
tying packages. When used in this manner, it is called the “packer’s” or “parcel” knot.
FIGURE 17. FIGURE EIGHT LOOP
The figure eight loop is a sort of schlocky bowline. It’s easy to make, and it holds securely,
even in slippery, synthetic rope (something that cannot be said of the bowline). If you need a
quick, nonslip loop in the middle of a rope, the figure eight is much faster to make than a
bowline on a bight. It’s also ideal for putting a loop on hard-to-grasp twine and thread.
However, the knot jams under load, so forget about untying it later. Use the figure eight loop
for thin cordage; stick with the bowline for rope.
