Taut-Line Hitch

Description

The taut-line hitch is an adjustable friction hitch that can slide up and down the standing part of the rope when not under tension but locks when load is applied. It uses two or more wraps around the standing part to create the friction mechanism.

Common Uses

Widely used for guy lines on tents and tarps to adjust tension without retying, and in camping for hanging food bags or adjusting shelter lines.

When to Choose This Knot

Choose this knot when fastening rope to an object, spar, rail, post, ring, or another rope. Hitches depend heavily on friction and the shape of the object they wrap around.

Safety Notes

• Test the hitch under controlled load before relying on it.
• Avoid sharp edges and smooth surfaces that can let the hitch roll or slide.
• Use extra turns, backups, or a different hitch if the load may cycle or change direction.

How to Tie

1. 1Wrap the working end around the standing part twice in a clockwise direction.
2. 2Pass the working end along the standing part away from the wraps.
3. 3Wrap the working end around its own standing part two or more times.
4. 4Pull the working end tight to lock the knot.
5. 5Slide the hitch up or down to adjust tension when unloaded.
6. 6Test that the hitch locks firmly under load.

Common Mistakes

• Tying around an object that is too smooth, tapered, or unstable.
• Loading the hitch before the wraps are snug and aligned.
• Forgetting that many hitches release quickly when the load direction changes.

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