What is a Knot?
"A knot is a method for fastening linear material, such as rope by tying or interweaving, to create in the line the ability to bind to itself or to some other object."
Knots fall into classes, which are Bends, Hitches, Loops, Stoppers, Slip and Splices. There are more, but these are the main classes we will illustrate. Shown below are some of the basic knots that Scouts should learn to tie.
Bends - to 'Unite' two ropes together
'Reef Knot' or 'Square Knot'
The reef-knot is only useful in simple applications, but is not a trustful knot. It is easy tied and will not jam, so it is always easy to untie. It is used to tie packages, and as a base for he shoe-bow. Sailors used it for binding rolled sails or better reefed sails. And that is where it got its english name from. Americans call it the square knot.
Hitches - Knots to tie a Rope onto something
'Half Hitch'
The half hitch is a simple knot. If tied by itself, it slips very easily and cannot hold anything. However, it occurs as a component in many more complicated knots.
'Two Half-Hitches'
The two half-hitches is a type of knot, specifically a binding knot or hitch knot. It consists of an overhand knot tied around a post, followed by a half-hitch.
'Taut-line Hitch'It is useful for tensioning lines where the tension may need to be periodically readjusted. It is typically used to secure loads on vehicles, and to secure tent lines. The taut-line hitch does not work well with some modern synthetic lines that are excessively slick or which do not knot well, though it can usually be made to function by tying more than the basic three half-hitches.
Loops
Knotting Links
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