Survival guides · Shelter & Fire

Five Knots

WHEN TO USE THISShelters, loads, rescue, first aid — these five cover nearly everything.

1. Bowline — a loop that won't slip

   
   • For rescue (around a chest), hanging things, a fixed anchor.
   • Small loop in the line. End up through the loop, around behind the line, back down through.
   • The rabbit comes out of the hole, goes around the tree, goes back in the hole.
   Why

   Won't slip, tighten or jam under load.

2. Taut-line hitch — adjustable tension

   
   • For tarp guy lines and clotheslines.
   • Around the anchor, then wrap the end twice around the line inside the loop, once outside. Pull tight.
   • Slides to adjust; holds under load.

3. Clove hitch — quick attachment

   
   • Fastest way to tie onto a post, tree or pole.
   • Two wraps, the second crossing the first, end tucked under.
   • Can slip under shifting loads — add a half hitch when it matters.

4. Square knot — bandages and bundles

   
   • Ties two ends together: bandages, slings, packages.
   • Right over left, then left over right. Otherwise it's a granny knot and slips.
   • Never to join two ropes under load — use a sheet bend.

5. Figure-eight — stopper

   
   • Stops a rope pulling through a hole, grommet or pulley.
   • Loop, end over and behind the line, then through the loop.
   • Bulkier than an overhand and much easier to untie after loading.

Sources: US Army FM 3-05.70 Survival (Appendix G) · International Guild of Knot Tyers

General information to help in an emergency — not a substitute for training or professional care.