Boa Knot

The Boa Knot is a robust binding knot used to clamp something in place, usually around a cylindrical object.

Once it’s tight, getting rid of the knot is impossible and even hard to adjust or move around. This makes it less suitable for situations where frequent adjustment is needed.

It combines the structure and functions of both the Strangle and Constrictor Knots. You get the hold of both—packed into one single knot.

Let’s learn it in detail.

How to Tie a Boa Knot Step by Step

1. Start with an Overhand Loop Knot.
2. Add another Overhand Loop on top of the first one.
3. Arrange these turns as a coil with both ends pointing in the same direction.
4. Rotate the right-hand side of the coil 180 degrees.
5. Take the object and feed it through the loop.
6. Continue feeding the object through another loop.
7. Pull both ends to tighten the knot.

You have tied this knot correctly if you notice three intertwined wraps with two diagonal strands crossing over the top.

Application and Uses

The Boa Knot is used to secure rope around cylindrical objects whose end is to be chopped off.

You may also find it useful in:

• Camping and outdoor activities: Bind items together
• Repairs: Secure items that need to be fixed permanently
• Utility Tasks: Secure tubes or rods

Don’t expect to tie and untie this knot with ease. It’s not built for quick release.

Other Binding Knots

Constrictor Knot

The Boa knot resembles the structure of the Double Constrictor Knot.

It uses two turns around the object, but it’s easier to tie. It does not have the intertwined structure like the Boa in the middle, though.

It’s easier to tie but less secure than the Boa Knot.

Strangle Knot

The Strangle Knot is a simple binding knot that does not grip as tightly as the Constrictor Knot.

It resembles the inner intertwined structure of the Boa knot.

It’s less secure than the Constrictor knot, but it is useful for temporary jobs.

Quick History

The Boa Knot was developed by Peter Collingwood in 1996. 

He developed it with the intention that the knot would remain secure if the object around which this knot was cut very short.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Robust and secure
• Compact form, ideal for tight spaces

Cons

• Hard to untie
• Difficult to move around
• Not meant for temporary use

Pro Tip

You don’t need to access the free end of the object to tie this knot.

Most people assume that you need to slide the knot on from the end. But you can tie it around something that is fixed in place.

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