Sliding Figure Eight

Description

The sliding figure eight is a figure eight knot tied with a bight so that it can slide along the rope, creating an adjustable loop. The knot body remains fixed while the loop size changes. It combines the security of the figure eight with adjustability.

Common Uses

Used in situations requiring an adjustable loop that remains secure under load, such as tensioning lines or creating adjustable anchor points.

When to Choose This Knot

Choose this knot when you need to prevent a rope end from passing through a hole, device, block, grommet, or another knot. Stopper knots are simple but must be large enough for the opening they protect.

Safety Notes

• Check that the finished knot is larger than the opening or hardware it is meant to stop.
• Keep enough tail beyond the stopper so it cannot roll out.
• Do not treat a stopper as a complete fall-arrest or rescue system.

How to Tie

1. 1Tie a standard figure eight knot near the end of the rope but do not tighten.
2. 2Pass the working end back through the knot in the opposite direction.
3. 3Form a bight before fully setting the knot.
4. 4Slide the knot along the rope to adjust loop size.
5. 5Pull the standing end to lock the knot in place.

Common Mistakes

• Using a stopper that is too small for the hardware.
• Placing the stopper too close to the working system.
• Failing to retighten after the knot compresses under load.

Similar Knots