Knot Guide: How to Tie a Double Fisherman’s Knot

A double fisherman’s knot is a type of rope-to-rope knot—known as a bend—that joins two different ropes together. It is also known as a double fisherman’s bend or grapevine knot. It is a popular load-bearing knot that can sustain weights over 5,000 pounds. It is created by looping two ropes to each other with double overhand knots, then pulling those knots together. Along with a triple fisherman's knot, the double fisherman’s knot is a commonly used knot in search-and-rescue missions and rock climbing.

A double fisherman’s knot is a popular knot to use in climbing. Here is an overview of the ways it can be used.

1. 1. Load-bearing protection system: Adding weight to a double fisherman’s knot will tighten the rope which makes it very hard to untie. This makes it a great option as a climbing rope protection system that can handle lots of weight.
2. 2. Supporting other knots: Double fisherman’s knots are used to support other knots like the figure-eight knot or to join thinner or more slippery lines together.
3. 3. Friction hitch: A double fisherman’s knot can also be used to form a loop with a single rope, sometimes used in Prusik loops (or Prusik knots), a type of friction hitch that is commonly used by climbers, arborists, and rescuers.

Here is an overview of how to tie a double fisherman’s knot.

1. 1. Align your ropes. Start with two ropes. Align the ends of your rope so that they overlap but are parallel to each other, leaving enough slack to make knots on either end.
2. 2. Make the first knot. Hold the end of one rope in your hand, using the end of the second rope to wrap around the first rope and itself twice in an overhand fashion. Thread the working end of the rope through the ‘X’ made by the double-overlapped rope, and pull it through to secure the knot. This forms a strangle knot around the first rope.
3. 3. Make the second knot. Take the end of the other rope and wrap it twice around the first rope in the same way that you made the first knot. Pull it tightly to secure it.
4. 4. Pull the knots together. Pull both ends of the ropes so that the knots slide together. Tighten the rope to secure the knot.

Climbing is a high-impact activity with an elevated risk of serious injury. Practice, proper guidance, and extensive safety precautions are essential when attempting a climbing pursuit. This article is for educational and informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional instruction or guidance.

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