The Double Figure 8 knot is the go-to knot for equalizing two anchors using a single rope.
It’s used in climbing, caving, search and even rescue operations as it’s easy to tie, adjust, and inspect in a short amount of time.
Plus, it’s strong and reliable.
DOUBLE FIGURE 8 KNOT DETAILS
Type: Loop
Other Names: Bunny Ears, Super 8, Playboy Knot, Dog Eared Loop, Y-Hang
ABoK Reference: #1085
How to Tie Double Figure 8 Knot
The Double Figure 8 knot looks like Figure 8 on a Bight but with an extra loop created instead of one.
Here’s how to tie this knot:
- Form a Figure 8 on a Bight at the end of the rope. Make sure you use a large bight so that you have a large loop sticking out the top.
- Fold the bight into half and feed it into the original Figure 8.
- Continue feeding the loop through, but don’t pull it all the way—leave enough to create the twin “ears.”
- Tuck the large loop over the top of the entire knot.
- Bring the loop all the way to the bottom.
- Tighten the “ears” and adjust the tension as needed.
You have tied this knot correctly if you have two fixed loops with two parallel lines on each side of the knot and a set of three parallel lines at the end.
To Untie, push the standing end upwards and pull the standing end downwards to unwind it. Then, unwind the rope through the loop.
Quick TIP
While tying the knot, take a generous amount of bight so that the resulting eyes will be long—perfect for securing anchors.
Applications and Uses
Rock Climbing
This knot is mainly used in rock climbing when you need to equalize two anchors. It’s great for building an anchor using two solid pieces of protection and keeping your setup clean.
Rescue and Search Operations
You can use this knot in search & rescue activities for creating a makeshift harness or a seat.
Other Uses
Climbing photographers and aid climbers also use this knot to secure themselves to an anchored line.
Note: Do not confuse the Double Figure 8 Knot with the Double Figure 8 loop used in fishing. The fishing variant is tied differently, using two overhand knots in opposite directions.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy to check if tied correctly
- High Residual Knot Strength
Cons
- Difficult to tie under a heavy fall
Double Figure 8 Knot Strength
The Double Figure 8 knot is strong and secure. According to research, the Residual Knot Strength (RKS) of this knot is 66.1-82.4%.
Not only strength, the knot is equally reliable as well.
If one loop, anchor, or carabiner fails, the rest will stay intact and won’t receive a large shock load either, making it highly reliable.
Common Variations and Alternatives
French Bowline
The French bowline makes two adjustable loops that can be used as a Bosun’s chair to lower or hoist an object or person.
Spanish Bowline
It consists of two loops and can be made in the middle of a line and serves the purpose of a temporary Bosun’s chair. Unlike the French Bowline, each loop is fixed and is not adjustable.
Double Alpine Butterfly Loop
It provides a pair of secure loops in the middle of a piece of rope with the advantage of offering two clip-in points at once.
Bowline on a Bight
It makes a secure loop in the middle of a piece of rope, ideal for making a secure foothold in the middle of a piece of rope or for creating a Bosun’s chair.
Share This Article!
