Ever worried that your primary knot might come undone when you need it most?
That’s where the backup Knot steps in!
If your primary knot unties, the backup knot keeps the end of rope from slipping through.
Let’s check it in detail.
Why Use a Backup Knot?
Simple: Security.
If you’re climbing, doing rope rescue or in any situation where your life depends on a knot holding strong—you need a backup knot.
Its purpose is to keep your primary knot from coming undone—plain and simple.
Some of the most used stopper knots are the Overhand knot, the Double Overhand knot, or the Double Fisherman’s knot.
We will focus on the Fisherman’s knot only as it is the widely used stopper knot with the standard tie-in Figure 8 follow through loop.
How to Tie Fisherman’s Knot
The Half Fisherman’s Knot is one of the most used backup knots.
It’s easy to tie and works as a reliable stopper knot.
Let’s see how you tie it:
- Wrap the working end twice around the standing part of the rope, working back toward the primary knot.
- Feed the working end through the loops.
- Hold the primary knot and pull the working end to tighten the knot.
You have done it correctly if you notice an X on one side and the Parallel lines on the other.
Check this detailed guide on Double Fisherman’s knot.
Do You Really Need a Backup Knot?
So, the big question is do you always need a backup knot?
The short answer—it depends.
If you are tying the Figure Eight Follow Through knot, it is already strong and secure on its own.
So, adding a backup knot can have diminishing returns—it can complicate the process and make visual inspections more difficult.
Some climbers and gyms still prefer tying the backup knot for added peace of mind.
The thing is—instead of relying on backup knots, climbers should focus on tying the perfect primary knot and performing thorough partner checks.
Other Backup Knots
Overhand Knot
The Overhand knot is the simplest stopper tied at the end of the rope to prevent it from slipping through the primary knot.
Although not very common, it is used as a backup to the Figure Eight Follow Through knot.
Barrel knot
The Barrel knot (also known as Double Fisherman’s knot or triple Overhand knot) is a more secure backup knot.
It can be used as a stopper knot on a rope, a backup knot for a belay device or as finishing knots in macrame patterns.
It also requires some dexterity to tie this knot right.
The Bowline with Yosemite Backup
The Yosemite Bowline is also a more secure version of the classic Bowline knot.
It is tied with the free end wrapped around one leg of the loop and tucked back through the knot.
This finish makes it easier to untie after a load and prevents the knot from capsizing.
An incorrectly tied Bowline can capsize and prove to be disastrous. So, be cautious while dressing this knot.
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