Description
The buntline hitch is a knot used for attaching a rope to an object.
Use
The buntline hitch is useful for attaching lines to rings, eyes, posts, rods, and railings where a compact and secure
knot is required. The non-slipped form is appropriate for moderate loads or where the knot will not need to be untied often.
If heavily loaded it can be difficult or impossible to untie without the aid of a marlinspike.
The slipped form is more versatile and convenient when a secure temporary hitch is needed. For example, the slipped
buntline hitch is an excellent choice to fasten a line to one side of a vehicle’s luggage rack, with a trucker’s hitch
being used on the other side to tension the line over a load placed between them.
Releasing
Jamming
Security
While the buntline hitch is considered a secure knot, the turns of the clove hitch must progress towards the object,
otherwise the much less secure two half-hitches will result. Although not generally required, a round turn can first
be made around the object causing the buntline hitch to be even less prone to slipping.
Other names
Buntline hitch, Studding sail tack bend, Inside clove hitch.
Tying
The buntline hitch is simply a clove hitch tied around the standing part, with the turns of the clove hitch progressing
towards the object.
The slipped variation is made by passing a bight through on the final step instead of the end. To release, pull the
bight back through knot by tugging firmly on the free end.