Timber hitch

Description

The timber hitch is a knot used to attach a single length of rope to a cylindrical object. Secure while tension is maintained,
it is easily untied even after heavy loading.

Use

As the name suggests, this knot is often used by lumbermen and arborists for attaching ropes to tree trunks,
branches, and logs.
This knot is also known as the Bowyer’s Knot, as it is used to attach the lower end of the bowstring to the
bottom limb on an English longbow.
The hitch is also one of the methods used to connect ukulele and classical guitar strings to the
bridge of the instruments.

Releasing

Non-jamming

Security

Although The Ashley Book of Knots states that “three tucks or turns are ample”, this work was written prior to the wide use
of synthetic fiber cordage. Later sources suggest five or more turns may be required for full security in modern ropes.

Other names

Timber hitch, Bowyer’s Knot, Lumberman’s Knot, Countryman’s Knot.

Tying

1. To make the knot, pass the rope completely around the object.
2. Pass the running end around the standing part, then through the loop just formed.
3. Make three or more turns (or twists) around the working part.
4. Pull on the standing part to tighten around the object.
A common error in tying can be avoided by assuring that the turns are made in the working part around itself.
When making the hitch in laid rope, the turns should be made with the lay of the rope, that is, in the same
direction as the twist of the rope.