The Half Hitch knot is one of the most basic knots and also one of the most misunderstood.
It’s a simple hitch knot that is used to tie a rope around an object.
On its own, it’s not the most secure, but it shines as a building block of other hitches.
Let’s check out this hitch in detail.
Half Hitch Details
Type: Hitch
ABoK Reference: #50
How to Tie a Half Hitch Knot
- Pass the rope around an object.
- Pass the working end over or under the standing end and through the loop.
- Tighten the knot around the support.
To untie, simply push out the working end and the knot will spill instantly.
Tying Half Hitch Knot the Correct Way
Now here’s the thing: People mess this up all the time. I have seen it way too often.
People tie the half hitch near the standing end of the rope or let it slip down the rope. That’s a no-go as it compromises the hitch and increases the chances of capsizing.
The Solution?
Keep the crossing end on the other side of the object, not down the rope.
A properly tied half hitch holds firm and is less likely to slip. However, it’s not as strong as the two-half hitches or other complex hitches.
Pro TIP: If you want to make the half hitch even more secure, just wrap the working end around the object and tie a half hitch around the standing end. Trust me, it’s worth the extra seconds.
Variations of the Half Hitch knot
Slipped Half Hitch
Need a quick release option? The Slipped Half Hitch is the best bet.
It’s tied around the object with a bight instead of the working end. This gives a quick release hitch that can be untied by simply pulling on the tag end.
It’s useful when you need a temporary hold that you can release quickly.
Related Hitch: Slipped Buntline Hitch
Two Half Hitches
By adding an additional single hitch to the rope’s standing part, you get a more secure hitch than the simple Half Hitch.
It looks like a Clove hitch tied around the standing part.
If the second half hitch is tied in the opposite way, it will give a Reverse Hitch (ABoK #1713).
Round Turn and Two Half Hitches
If you need a more secure hitch, this is the knot for you.
Just wrap a second turn around the object and add the two Half Hitches around the standing line.
It’s perfect for securing boats or tying off to a post.
Application and Uses
Let’s be real—the Half Hitch is rarely used for critical applications because it can come undone easily when subjected to load.
It does not hold up against the heavy load.
But where does it sign? When combined with other knots.
The Half Hitch is popular in Knitting and Macrame tasks for its ease of untying.
It is also used in general-purpose utility works in outdoor activities like tying a rope to a tree, boat, or any other object.
Warning: The Half Hitch is not secure when used alone, so it should never be used as a primary knot for critical applications.
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