Description

The Kamikaze knot is a binding knot that remains tied under tension but becomes untied when tension is released.

Use

Allows climbers rappelling down cliff faces to keep most of the rope used for the rappel,
by tying the knot at the top, and shaking the rope when they reach the bottom.
The shaking disconnects the knot at the top, allowing the longer section of rope to fall, meaning only a small amount
of rope is retained by the anchor at the top of the cliff. Thin or slippery rope is unsuitable for such a knot, as it
can easily slip, and the knot should not be performed unless desperately needed.

Releasing

Non-jamming

Security

This knot is not stable. It will fall apart under too much load or too little load. The knot should not be used unless
desperately needed.

Other names

Kamikaze knot, Cut sheepshank.

Tying

To tie a kamikaze knot, a sheepshank is first constructed. Whilst holding sufficient tension on the sheepshank
so it will not slip out, the middle rope is sliced.