Description
A handcuff knot is a knot tied in a bight having two adjustable loops in opposing directions,
able to be tightened around hands or feet. The knot itself does not possess any inherent locking action,
and thus is not as easy to use for such purposes as the name might suggest.
The knot consists of two simple loops, overlaid, and with the ends pulled through.
At that stage, the knot is slippery and easy to adjust.
The knot can be “locked” by making one or more overhand knots with the loose ends in the manner of a reef knot.
The knot is also known as a hobble knot for similar reasons,
from the idea that the knot was sometimes used on the legs of horses to keep them from straying.
Use
Could be used as a handcuff. However, knot itself does not possess any inherent locking action.
The knot can be made more secure by tying one or more overhand knots with the loose ends.
The sizes of the two loops can also be fixed by making half hitches with each end over the necks of the loops.
This configuration is known as the fireman’s chair knot. It can be used as a rescue harness capable
of supporting a person while they are being lowered to safety. One loop supports the body, around the
chest and under the arms, and the other supports the legs, under the knees.
It can also be used to restrain an animal or drag an animal carcass.
Security
The knot itself is not secure but can easily be secured by tying one or more overhand knots.
Other names
Handcuff knot, Hobble knot.
Tying
1. Form two identical loops on a rope.
2. Put one loop over the other.
3. Feed each loop through the other loop.
4. Put victim’s extremities through the loops.
5. Pull free ends of the rope to tighten the loops.