askvity

How do you tie a double knot with two ends?

Published in Knot Tying 3 mins read

Tying a "double knot" with two ends often refers to joining two lines together securely using a knot known for its strength, such as the Double Fisherman's Bend. This knot is particularly useful for joining lines of similar diameter, offering a reliable connection that tightens under load.

Tying the Double Fisherman's Bend

The Double Fisherman's Bend involves tying a modified knot on each line around the other line. Here are the steps to tie it, incorporating key details from the reference:

  1. Overlap the Lines: Lay the two lines you wish to join (let's call them Line A and Line B) parallel to each other, overlapping by a foot or more.

  2. Tie the First Knot (on Line A around Line B):

    • Take the tag end of Line A.
    • Wrap the tag end of Line A around Line B. As the reference states, "Direction start with the wraps. Underneath." Ensure the wraps go underneath the main part of Line B.
    • Continue wrapping to create "two coils" (two full wraps) of the tag end of Line A around Line B.
    • "And now thread the tag end through them" (the two coils you just made).
    • "and pull a tighten". Pull the tag end to snug this knot down onto Line B. This completes one side of the bend.

  3. Tie the Second Knot (on Line B around Line A):

    • Repeat the process using the tag end of Line B.
    • Wrap the tag end of Line B around Line A, starting underneath and creating two coils around Line A.
    • Thread the tag end of Line B back through these two coils.
    • Pull the tag end to snug this second knot down onto Line A.

  4. Cinch the Bend:

    • You now have two separate knots, each tied on one line around the other.
    • "now we can pull the two lines. And the Bend Will cinch." Grab the main lines (not the tag ends) of both Line A and Line B and pull them firmly apart in opposite directions. This action causes the two snugged knots to slide towards each other and lock together, forming the complete Double Fisherman's Bend.

  5. Finish: Trim the tag ends, leaving sufficient length (e.g., several times the diameter of the rope) for safety.

Why Use the Double Fisherman's Bend?

  • Strength: It is one of the strongest knots for joining two ropes, especially important in critical applications.
  • Security: It is very secure and unlikely to shake loose when tied correctly and under tension.
  • Reliability: Widely used in climbing, fishing, and other applications where rope failure is unacceptable.

This method provides a strong, reliable "double knot" specifically designed for joining two separate lines.

Related Articles