Constrictor knot
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The constrictor knot is an effective binding knots that can be difficult or impossible to untie once tightened. It is made similarly to a clove hitch but with one end passed under the other.
Uses
- A constrictor knot can be used as a quick temporary whipping for a fraying rope. Tied around the end, it will keep the strands together while it is being whipped or spliced.
- The know can be tied around the neck of a sack or bag.
- It can used to hold items together for gluing.
Method
- Make a turn around the pole and bring the working end back over the standing part.
- Continue around behind the pole.
- Pass the working end over the standing part and then under the riding turn and standing part, forming an overhand knot under a riding turn.
- Be sure the ends emerge between the two turns as shown. Pull firmly on the ends to tighten.
Warning
- The Constrictor Knot fails when tied against a flat surface – it requires a curved surface for the binding turn to grip the Half Hitch.
- This know can be very difficult or impossible to untie. Do not tie this around someone's arm or leg!