Page 89 - The Knot Bible

Carrick bend

It’s been described as ‘the nearest thing we have to a perfect bend’, and
indeed the carrick bend has most of the characteristics required of a
perfect knot. No-one is sure how it got its name, but the most likely
inspiration must be the Carrick Roads in Falmouth, UK, which was a major
port during the Age of Sail. Use it to tie large mooring lines together – or
to make a decorative lanyard or mat.

Knot-tyers love the carrick bend. shown), it’s quite bulky compared to
This is probably because it’s a good other bends. This can be overcome,
example of a knot that combines however, by seizing both the ends
aesthetics with functionality. It’s while the knot is still in its initial
aesthetically pleasing because of its shape. The resulting knot slips more
simple, repetitive, symmetrical easily through hawsers and retains
pattern. And it’s utterly functional all the positive characteristics 1 Put an underhand loop in the end
because it’s the best and easiest knot described above. of one line, and place it over the
to tie in thick, unwieldy ropes that Apart from being used on ships other line.
can’t be twisted into any other bend. to tie mooring lines together, the
Not only that, but it’s extremely carrick bend has many decorative
secure, yet does not jam, and only uses. It can be extended longways KNOT SCORE
gets stronger when wet. to make a lanyard, or it can be
Strength
No wonder the carrick bend was expanded ‘in the fl at’ to make a mat.
Security
described by Ashley as ‘the nearest It also features in various logos,
Diffi culty Tying
thing we have to a perfect bend’. including Carrick District Council in
Diffi culty Untying
Its only drawback is that when the UK, which includes the natural
Usefulness
tightened in its ‘capsized’ form (as harbour known as the Carrick Roads.

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