Description
A clove hitch is two successive half-hitches around an object.
Use
It is most effectively used as a crossing knot. It can be used as a binding knot, but is not particularly secure in that role.
This knot is particularly useful where the length of the running end needs to be adjustable, since feeding in rope from either
direction will loosen the knot to be tightened at a new position. With certain types of cord, the clove hitch can slip when
loaded. In modern climbing rope, the clove hitch will slip to a point, and then stop slipping. With smaller diameter cords,
after being heavily weighted it may become difficult to untie. It is also unreliable when used on a square or rectangular post,
rather than round.
Releasing
Jamming
Security
The clove hitch is not a highly secure knot. It is only secure when both sides of the knot are under tension. When only
loading one end, the hitch is prone to slip.
Tying
To tie a clove hitch at the end of a rope:
1. Pass the end around the pole starting at the right, with the end
coming around below.
2. Put the end around in the same direction to cross over the standing end to be above the first loop.
3. As the end comes around, put it under itself to be over the standing end.
4. Check that both ends are in the middle, emerging in opposite directions.
5. Pull to tighten. When pulled tighter, the rope passing over itself binds it
in place.