Cow Hitch

The Cow hitch is used to tie the rope to a post, poles or other ropes.

It’s easy to learn and can be tied to the end of the rope or a bight.

It’s like a Clove Hitch except the second Half Hitch is tied in the opposite direction.

But before we get too excited—this knot isn’t recommended for critical use when security is important.

Let’s learn this hitch in detail.

How to Tie a Cow Hitch (Lark’s Head Knot)

Method 1: End Method (ABoK #1673)

1. Pass the end of the rope around the object from behind.
2. Cross it behind the standing line.
3. Pass the working end around the object in the opposite direction and pass it through the loop.
4. Tighten the knot.

This is a less stable form of the Cow hitch compared to the other variations.

Note: Keep the working end long to account for the slippage.

Method 2: Bight Method (ABoK #1802)

1. Pass the bight of rope around the object.
2. Pass the working end through the loop.
3. Tighten the knot.

This is known as Girth Hitch among the climbers.

You’ll also see this in macrame and other craft projects like attaching the luggage tags.

Method 3: Loop Method 

1. Make a bight in your rope.
2. Fold the bight in half to make two loops.
3. Fold the two loops together.
4. Pass it through the end of the object.
5. Tighten the knot.

Use this one if you don’t have a free end to work with. You can slip it onto something without having to undo the whole rope.

Pro TIP

The Cow hitch does not hold tight against the object if you use modern synthetic ropes.

Also, tie a stopper knot around the standing end to improve its security.

Bale Sling Hitch

The Bale Sling Hitch (ABoK #1694) forms a continuous loop of straps to form a Cow hitch around the object and the end is secured to the standing end.

It is used to hoist or lower an object.

In some arrangements, a fixed loop is used at the end of the rope as well.

Cow Hitch vs Girth Hitch

At first glance, the Cow hitch and Girth hitch look like the same knot.

But they are two different knots.

The Girth Hitch is tied with both ends so there is no standing or working end, but when tied in a sling loop there’s just a working bight.

Both lines are under tension which makes the hitch more secure and stable.

The Cow hitch takes the load on one side, so it’s less secure when unequal tension is applied.

But, it’s more practical when you’re working with a long rope and only one end is available.

The Girth hitch is tied by passing the whole rope through the bight which is not practical with the long rope.

Pedigree Cow Hitch

If you are worried about the hitch coming loose, try the Pedigree Cow hitch.

It is the same knot but with one major difference—the working end is passed inside the turns for extra security.

This adds extra security and helps stop slippage when the tension is applied to just one end.

Application and Uses

• Farmers use it to tie animals to posts.
• Arborists tie it onto rigging pulleys when lowering tree sections.
• Sailors use it to tie rigging lanyards to poles, trees, or other objects.
• It’s used in macrame and paracord projects to attach items like tags to zippers or secure friendship bracelets to a wooden hoop.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Simple and easy to tie
• Useful for temporary setups

Cons

• May slip or untie under load
• Has a few useful applications

Other Knots like the Cow Hitch

Clove Hitch

The Clove hitch is tied similar to the Cow hitch except the second loop is tied in the same direction as the first one.

Buntline Hitch

A Buntline hitch is a Clove hitch tied around the standing end with the turns moving toward the object it is tied to.

It’s more secure than the Cow hitch.

Anchor Hitch

The Anchor hitch is used to attach the boats to the anchors.

It’s popular at sea because it can be tied when there’s tension in the line.

But it can jam under heavy load.

Tumble Hitch

If you need a secure quick-release hitch, try Tumble hitch.

It’s the most secure hitch out there.

But it’s difficult to tie for the new learners.

Which variations do you use to tie the Cow hitch? Do tell us in the comment below.