A Becket Hitch Knot is used to attach a rope to a fixed loop.
It’s identical to the Sheet Bend in formation. But instead of tying into the loop, you tie it into the eye (like, an eye splice, a metal eye, or a webbing).
It’s popular in camping and outdoor activities because it’s quick to tie, holds strong, and unties easily.
Let’s learn it in detail.
Becket Hitch Knot Details
Type: Hitch
Other Names: Slipped Sheet Bend, Hammock Knot
ABoK Reference: #1900
How to Tie a Becket Hitch Knot
- Pass the working end through the eye.
- Wrap the rope around the back of the loop.
- Feed it under itself and over the loop.
- Tighten the knot.
That’s it. You’re done.
Becket Hitch Knot Step by Step
Pros & Cons
- Simple and beginner friendly
- Strong and secure
- Easily adjustable
- Works with sheathed rope or webbing
- Doesn’t need any extra hardware
- Super easy to untie with the slipped variation
- Prone to slipping with slippery ropes like Amsteel or Dyneema
Application and Uses
The Becket Hitch is almost made for hammock suspension.
You tie it from the suspension line directly to the loop at the end of the hammock or the tree straps.
The best thing? It works on either end of the suspension line. You just need an eye or a loop on your hammock or tree straps.
It’s also used to tie down the corners of tents or tarps.
Double Becket Hitch (When You Need Extra Hold)
If you are using the slippery ropes, this variation helps.
The Double Becket Hitch (ABoK #1902) is a secure version of the Becket Hitch.
It’s tied by wrapping the working end around the becket an extra time before the working end is brought under itself.
In the Ashley Book of Knots, two other knots are mentioned under the same name: ABoK#1906 and ABoK#1909.
But the one that works best is ABoK#1902.
Slipped Becket Hitch (Easy to Untie)
This is probably the most popular and practical version.
Instead of feeding the free end through the loop, a bight is fed through it. It makes it easy to untie the knot later.
It’s similar to the Slipped Sheet Bend. Perfect for hammocks.
I use it every time I hang a hammock. You can set it up and take it down in seconds.
Liked the article? Share it along with your camping buddies!
