Icicle hitch

1. Wrap the working end around the post 4-5 times, working away from the end of the post (and the direction of expected pull).
2. Bring the working end, back to front, alongside the standing end, leaving a substantial bight hanging behind the post.
3. Bring this bight under both ends.
4. Pull the bight over the end of the post. Tighten by pulling both ends perpendicular to the post.

Description

An icicle hitch is used for connecting to a post when weight is applied to an end running parallel to the post.

Use

Tying to a post when weight is applied parallel to the post.
Tying to a rope when load is applied parallel to that rope.

Releasing

Non-jamming

Security

Icicle hitch will hold its place even when holding a substantial load on a smooth surface.
This class of knot is a “slip and grip” friction type that will pull tight when the load is applied in the correct direction and slide easily for placement with no load.

Tying

1. To tie an icicle hitch bring the working end over the post, front to back, four or five times, working away from the
end of the post (and the direction of expected pull).
2. Bring the working end, back to front, alongside the standing end, leaving a substantial bight hanging behind the post.
3. Bring this bight over both ends, and over the end of the post.
4. Tighten by pulling both ends perpendicular to the post.
5. The pull on the standing end (running the direction of the post) will tighten the knot as more pull is given.