Taught Line Hitch

[Rick]

We have a lot of new folks on here so I thought I'd toss this out. Knowing how to tie knots is not only a handy (and for me, fun) thing to do but knowing which knot to use when can often mean the difference between having a nice night under a bad sky or fighting a tarp or tent all night long. The very best way to tie down a tent/tarp is to use a Taught Line Hitch. It's super simple, stays put where you want it and is easy to untie. And best of all, you can slide it so your line is taught and it will stay there.

http://www.scouttroop.org/nj/bsa/23/tenderfoot_taught-line_hitch.htm

[rat31465]

I have always used the Truckers Hitch instead...but do see some advantages to having more than one knot at ones disposal.

This is an interesting site I just found. Nice animations for tying knots.
http://www.animatedknots.com/truckers/index.php?LogoImage=LogoGrog.jpg&Website=www.animatedknots.com

[Pict]

I often create a similar effect with an artillery hitch in the rope. You can get a high degree of tension without it slipping. Mac

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artillery_loop

[Rick]

Grog does a nice job on his site.

I haven't seen the artillery loop. I'll have to play with that one. Thanks!!

[Pict]

It comes in handy if you get a rope up and it needs more tension. You can put a non-binding loop in it and pull it tight. Mac

[Ole WV Coot]

I can't pick one. I used about six or so when working and still do. I see everyone picks what works for them so I suggest you just try a few and remember the ones you will use, saves space in your brain for something else.

[red lake]

I use a western saddle cinch, similar to the truckers hitch.

I like it because i can get that thing super tight and there is no knot. when it is time to take it down there is nothing to untie. Just pull and everything comes apart.

Sorry no fancy diagrams.

[Pict]

I use a western saddle cinch, similar to the truckers hitch.

I like it because i can get that thing super tight and there is no knot. when it is time to take it down there is nothing to untie. Just pull and everything comes apart.

Sorry no fancy diagrams.

Western Saddle Cinch (http://horses.about.com/od/choosingandusingtack/ss/tiecinch.htm)

On a saddle of course...

Mac

[Sarge47]

It's true that there are many knots available to the outdoors-man; the fly-fishermen will recognize "the nail knot", for example; the basic knots taught to the scouts are simple, easy-to-understand, quick-to-learn knots. They cover a wide range of things that can be encountered while camping. The Bowline, for example is a great knot that can be used in a rescue situation. As the Scout progresses they can always add to their "knot knowledge".
They are always taught six knots on the road to "Tenderfoot". They are, in no particular order:
1.) The Sheetbend; used for joining 2 ropes together.
2.) The Clove Hitch; used for attaching a rope to a post or rail.
3.) The Half Hitch: Tying 2 of these works well for tying a rope to a ring.
4,) The Bowline; creates a "non-slipping" loop.
5.) The Timber Hitch; used for hauling logs or starting a diagonal lashing.
6.) The aforementioned Tautline hitch; great for tying guy-lines to tent
pegs.

These 6 knots are a great "starter" & cover a wide range of things. They are also great for any novice to the outdoors to start learning & applying. Then more knots, like one of my favorites: "The Prussic knot", can be added. Safe-zone sells a bandana that shows many knots & how they are tied; great for taking into the outdoors!:cool2: