Rope is one of the most valuable tools in the wilderness, but it is useless if you cannot secure it. From building shelters to setting traps, these five knots are the foundational skillset for any outdoorsman.
1. The Bowline
Often called the "King of Knots," the bowline creates a fixed loop at the end of a rope that will not slip or jam, even under heavy load. It is essential for rescue operations and securing gear.
"The rabbit comes out of the hole, goes around the tree, and goes back down the hole."
2. The Clove Hitch
This is a quick and effective binding knot used to secure a rope to a post or tree. It is the start of many lashings used in shelter construction. While it can slip if the rope rotates, it is adjustable and easy to untie.
3. The Taut-Line Hitch
An adjustable loop knot for use on lines under tension. It is useful for securing tent guylines, where you need to tighten or loosen the line without untying the knot. This is critical for keeping shelters taut in wind and rain.
4. The Figure-Eight Loop
Stronger and easier to untie than a simple overhand knot, the figure-eight loop is used to create a reliable loop at the end of a line. It is a standard knot in climbing because it preserves the rope's strength.
5. The Trucker's Hitch
This compound knot gives you a 3-to-1 mechanical advantage, allowing you to pull a line extremely tight. It is perfect for securing loads on vehicles or tensioning a ridgeline for a tarp shelter.
Practice Makes Perfect
Don't wait until you are in the freezing rain to learn these. Carry a small length of paracord in your pocket and practice tying these knots until you can do them with your eyes closed.