Double Overhand Stopper Knot

The Double Overhand knot is a simple yet essential stopper knot.

It’s based on a simple Overhand knot, in which the working end is passed through the loop twice before tightening.

It’s the most widely used stopper knot in climbing and serves as a reliable backup to other knots, such as a Figure 8 knot or Bowline knot.

How to Tie Double Overhand Stopper Knot

1. Make a loop in the rope.
2. Pass the working end of the rope through the loop.
3. Pass the working end through the loop a second time to create the double overhand knot.
4. Dress the knot, so it’s secure but not overly tight.

If done correctly, you’ll notice an ‘X’ shape on one side and parallel lines on the other.

To untie, push both the ends of the rope towards each other. If it’s really tight, apply some extra force.

Once the knot starts wiggling, pull both the ends through the knot.

Alternative Method

You can also tie this knot by threading the end of the rope through the coil. 

First, form an overhand loop over the standing end of the rope. Then go under and over the standing end. Now, pull the end of the rope through the coil.

Quick TIP

The Double Overhand knot forms a medium sized stopper knot, but if you want a bigger stopper, just loop the end of the rope as many times as you need.

You can go for a triple, quadruple, or even more. These are known as “multiple overhand loops.” 

It’s like supersizing your knot!

If you need a bulky stopper knot, consider the Ashley’s Stopper knot.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Forms a large knot that’s unlikely to slip through the holes and anchors
• Easy to tie

Cons:

• Can jam badly and tough to untie

Applications and Uses

Stopper Knot

Double Overhand knot is commonly tied at the end of the rope, particularly when rappelling, or climbing top-rope, and at the end of any other knot when building anchors.

Surgeon’s Knot

This knot is versatile and serves as a foundation for more complex knots like the Surgeon’s Knot. 

Connecting Two Ropes

It can also be used for connecting two ropes, also known as the Double Fisherman’s Knot. It’s basically two Double Overhand knots tied opposite to each other around the other rope.

Other Stopper Knots

Figure 8 Knot

The Figure 8 knot is definitely a better option than a simple overhand knot which can jam so badly that it will be difficult to untie afterwards.

Stevedore Stopper Knot

It is an extension of a simple Figure 8 knot. It forms a medium sized stopper knot that can be useful in maritime and cargo handling applications. 

Plus, it’s easier to untie after being subjected to heavy load.

Ashley Stopper Knot

If you need something bulky and reliable at the end of the rope, Ashley stopper knot might be the best option. 

It is less likely to shake loose than a Figure 8 knot. However, it may be difficult to learn for the beginners.

Estar Stopper Knot

It forms a bulky stopper knot that is suitable especially for slippery ropes like Dyneema. 

However, it may be difficult to learn and also difficult to untie after heavy loading.

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