How to Tie a Stopper Knot: 4 Stopper Knot Uses

A stopper knot is a common knot tied at the end of a line to prevent the rope from slipping through a narrow hole, retaining device, or carabiner. These types of knots are used in a wide range of functions, from boating to mountaineering. Rock climbers, in particular, rely on secure stopper knots for their safety. A correctly tied stopper knot can help secure another knot or prevent a slippery rope from slipping through a rappel or belay device.

The double overhand knot is the most common stopper that rock climbers use. They favor this common knot over other bulky stopper knots, such as the figure-eight knot or the Ashley stopper knot (also called the oysterman’s knot), as it is less likely to come loose during a climb.

Rock climbers use stoppers as a backup knot in the middle of a rope or to close off the ends. Here are some specific instances when this knot comes in handy:

1. 1. Backing up other knots: The stopper knot can also be used to reinforce other knots tied to carabiners or the harness, such as the figure-eight knot, figure eight on a bight, or bowline knot. Tie the stopper knot as close as possible to the knot you want to backup when using it for reinforcement.
2. 2. Belaying. When tied at the end of the top rope, stopper knots can help prevent the climbing rope from feeding through a belay device if the climbing distance is longer than the rope.
3. 3. Joining two ropes together. The double-overhand knot is a type of stopper knot that climbers commonly use. Two double-overhand knots form a double fisherman's knot, which is a handy way to join two climbing ropes together.
4. 4. Rappelling. When rappelling down the face of a mountain, placing a stopper knot at the end of your rope can prevent it from slipping through your rappel device if the descent is longer than the rope. Tying a simple stop knot at the end of your line is a necessary safety precaution, even if you are using an autoblock.

The double overhand is a straightforward stopper knot that you can tie relatively quickly.

1. 1. Form a loop. Place the rope in one hand, about 18 inches from the end. Next, wrap the end of the rope over the piece in your hand to form a loop.
2. 2. Feed-in the tail. Feed the tail of the rope through the loop. Next, follow through with the tail of the rope a second time.
3. 3. Pull to tighten. Pull the tail through the loop to tighten the knot, which should now form an “x” shape.

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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