Page 86 - Derek E. Avery - The new encyclopedia of knots

Double thumb knot see fisherman’s knot.

Double wall: this is illustrated using four strands, held firmly in the left

hand with the ends having been formed, working anticlockwise, into a
wall knot (figure 55.1; see also page 187). However, any number of
strands can be used, and it can also be formed by working clockwise. The
emerging strands, which would face upwards in all wall knots, are laid
alongside previous bights, which are followed around until they emerge
separately pointing upwards (figure 55.2 has been drawn showing this
flat, for clarity, but the strands should be pulled upwards).

Draw hitch or thief knot: provides a quick release simply by tugging at
the working end. It can, however, prove disastrous. Whereas it is a

perfectly efficient knot when being used as a lifeline, it is essential that the
standing part, which is capable of supporting a load – the escaping thief –
is not confused with the working end. Therefore when this knot is being
used, as it is by the fire services, as a lifeline or as a means of escape, extra
care must be taken to identify that end (the standing part) which can

support a load.

figure 55.1