Skills Refresher: 3 basic knots

These three basic knots are useful for those learning to scramble, rock climb or going on a mountaineering trip. Never assume you know them, it’s always good to recheck and relearn before you find yourself using them.

There’s a short video for each type of knot so read on to get back up to speed on your climbing knots!

Re-Threaded Figure of 8 (incl stopper knot)

This is my preferred knot for tying into the rope. It’s easy to learn, easy to tell if it’s tied correctly and perfect for teaching beginners. 

Figure of 8 on a Bight

Quicker to tie than the re-threaded fig 8 and useful for building anchors. Remember to always dress and stress your knot and leave a long tail and/or tie a stopper knot.

The Clove Hitch

Its simple to learn, used by all types of climbers from sports climbers to alpinists and easy to tell if its not a clove hitch. If it doesn’t lock, it’s not one.

Top Tips for tying basic knots

  • when trying to learn a new knot, keep a short length of rope beside the couch and practice tying them as you watch telly, so that tying the knot becomes second nature to you.
  • Remember to always dress and stress your knot and leave a long tail and/or tie a stopper knot.

Want to learn more basic knots?

I have a blog post with three more knots for you to learn or relearn! Even if you know them, it’s never a bad idea to go back over them!

Please feel free to contact me if you would like to discuss any aspect of this video or other skills.

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