Jamming knot

A jamming knot is a knot that is difficult to untie after it has been pulled tight. Jamming knots are not to be confused with Stopper knots or the taut-line hitch, both sometimes referred to as jamming knots.

With knotting we use known knots and we are aware of the benefits and weaknesses of each knot. Jamming is a weakness in most knots as we typically re-use our ropes and need to remove all knots from a rope before returning the ropes to the stores.

Examples of Jamming knots

• Overhand knot
• Figure of eight knot

Non-jamming knots

Knots that are more easily undone are called non-jamming knots.

• Bowline
• Sheet bend
• Cow hitch