Butterfly Mid-Loop

Description

The butterfly mid-loop, closely related to the alpine butterfly, creates a fixed loop in the middle of a rope that can withstand loads from any direction. It is tied with a specific hand-wrap method that forms three coils interlocked to produce a strong, balanced loop.

Common Uses

Used in engineering, climbing, and rescue for creating a midline attachment point that will be loaded from multiple directions.

When to Choose This Knot

Choose this knot when you need a loop that can connect to a post, ring, hook, carabiner, handle, or another rope part. Loop knots differ in whether they stay fixed, cinch down, or remain easy to untie after loading.

Safety Notes

• Confirm whether the loop is intended to be fixed or sliding before applying load.
• For climbing or rescue, use only knots and rope systems approved by your training program or local standard.
• Check that the standing part, tail, and loop are oriented correctly before loading.

How to Tie

1. 1Hold the rope with both hands and twist to form two adjacent loops.
2. 2Bring the left loop over the right loop.
3. 3Pass the bottom of the intertwined loops up through the opening.
4. 4Pull the loop outward while tightening the standing ends.
5. 5Dress the knot to ensure even strain distribution.

Common Mistakes

• Confusing a fixed loop with a noose or running loop.
• Loading the loop from an unintended angle.
• Skipping a backup knot where the application requires one.

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