EStar Stopper Knot

The EStar stopper is a bulky knot used to hold in slippery ropes like Dyneema where other knots might slip out.

It’s based on the Buntline hitch and has an asymmetrical look.

Let’s learn this knot in detail.

How to Tie Estar Stopper Knot

1. Make an Overhand loop and pass the working end under the standing line.
2. Pass the working end over everything towards the loop.
3. Make a Buntline hitch around the standing part.
4. Pass the working end through the Buntline. It forms two loops.
5. Pull both ends to tighten the loops.
6. Feed the tag end through the loop.
7. Tighten the knot.

Estar Hitch Knot

1. Tie a buntline hitch around the standing end.
2. Pass the tag end back and around the object.
3. Feed the working end through the buntline.
4. Tighten the knot.

It’s a self tightening hitch—when the tension increases on the line, the hitch is grips harder.

Applications

The EStar Stopper Knot works great with slippery ropes like Dyneema, where its bulky design helps prevent slippage.

The history of this knot is not well documented but it’s believed to be developed by Evan Starzinger for this purpose.

That said, it can be used with any kind of rope when you need a bulky stopper knot to prevent rope from passing through an opening.

It’s used in camping and outdoor projects to secure lines of tarps and shelters.

Pros and Cons

The Estar stopper works with modern slippery ropes like Dyneema, kevlar and Spectra.

It tightens itself when there is a load on the line, so it’s one of the secure stopper knots.

But it’s difficult to learn this knot for the beginners.

It jams after being under heavy loads. So, it may be difficult to untie it later.

Is EStar Stopper Knot  Secure?

Absolutely! The Estar stopper is one of the secure stopper knots.

There are few stopper knots that is effective against modern slippery ropes than the Estar stopper knot.

It tightens under load which makes it even more reliable.

 But, the bulky nature makes it less suited for general purpose tasks.

Other Similar Knots

Figure 8 Knot

The Figure 8 Knot is the most used stopper knot.

It works well for general tasks but unties itself when there is tension on the line.

It’s never used as a stopper knot where a bulky stopper is needed and also struggle with slippery ropes.

Overhand Knot

The Overhand stopper is the simple and most commonly used stopper knot.

It does not work well with the slippery ropes and also slip through the holes due to its small knot profile.

Double Overhand Knot

The Double Overhand stopper has a compact size and works well for general use.

But it lacks the bulk needed for the slippery ropes.

It’s used in climbing as a backup to other knots like Figure 8 follow through.

Stevedore Knot

Stevedore knot is tied similar to the Estar stopper knot.

It’s easy to tie and go to stopper knot for beginners.

But it does not grip well with the synthetic ropes.

Ashley Stopper Knot

Ashley stopper is smaller than EStar stopper knot.

It’s used when you need to stop the knot from slipping through large holes but does not work well with synthetic ropes.

Have you tried this knot in your day to day use? Let us know!