Figure 8 Knot

The Figure 8 knot is an easy-to-tie stopper knot that is used in sailing and rock climbing.

It prevents the rope from unreeving or sliding through the retaining device.

This knot has an efficiency of about 80%, so it’s quite a secure knot.

But, it tends to come loose over time.

Let’s check this knot in detail.

How to Tie a Figure 8 Knot

1. Create a bight in the rope.
2. Pass the working end over and under the standing part.
3. Feed the tag end back through the loop.
4. Pull both ends of the rope to tighten the knot.

Related: How to Tie the Perfect Figure 8 Knot

If you notice an “8” shape, you’ve tied this knot correctly.

To untie, push the ends towards each other. Once the knot starts wiggling, pull either end from the knot.

Quick TIP

The Figure 8 knot is a small stopper knot that tends to come undone easily. If you need a better stopper knot, try out the Stevedore Stopper Knot.

It’s tied similarly to the Figure 8 Knot with an additional turn around the standing end before the knot is tightened.

Related: Stevedore stopper knot

Other Figure 8 Knots

The Figure 8 knot is not only a solid stopper knot, it is the foundation for tying several Loop knots and bends as well.

Let’s find out.

Figure 8 on a Bight

The Figure 8 on a bight creates a secure loop anywhere along the rope. It is mostly used by climbers for setting up anchors.

But, it can jam badly after multiple falls.

Figure 8 Follow Through Loop

The Figure 8 Follow through loop is tied similarly to Figure 8 on a Bight knot and is used to thread the end of the rope through the harness before finishing the knot.

It is used in rock climbing to attach ropes to the harness.

Directional Figure 8

The Directional Figure 8 creates a loop in the middle of the rope and handles the tension in one direction only, used for handholds or anchor points.

Double Figure 8

The Double Figure 8 is mostly used in rock climbing for building anchors and making makeshift harnesses or temporary seats during search and rescue operations.

Figure 8 Bend

The Figure 8 bend can also be used to create a Figure 8 Bend that helps to join two ropes together.  

Figure 8 Knot vs Other Stopper Knots

Overhand Stopper Knot

The Overhand knot is one of the simplest stopper knots that exist. It tends to jam under load, so a Figure 8 Knot is the preferred alternative.

Double Overhand Knot

The Double overhand knot forms a moderately large stopper knot and is a more secure version of the Overhand Knot.

Ashley Stopper Knot

It forms a bulky stopper knot at the end of a rope, ideal when the Double Overhand Knot might slip from the openings.

Estar Stopper Knot

The EStar stopper knot is a special stopper knot used with slippery ropes like Dyneema.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Simple, easy to tie
• Easier to untie than an overhand stopper knot

Cons

• Tendency to shake loose

Applications and Uses

Rock Climbing

In rock climbing, climbers often secure the Figure 8 Follow Through by adding a back-up Figure 8 Knot with the tag end.

Some also prefer to use the Double Overhand Stopper Knot.

Boating

The Figure 8 knot is used in boating to prevent a rope from slipping out of a retaining device.

Fishing

Anglers use two types of Figure 8 knots—a standard Figure 8 Knot and a Figure 8 Loop. 

The Figure 8 knot is used to connect the terminal tackle to your line.

It’s strong enough for smaller fishes but might not hold up against large gamefish. To make this knot a bit stronger, you can double the line before tying.

A Figure 8 Loop is useful for creating an interconnected loop system. You tie the loops in both your line and the rig to link them together for a secure connection.

Which variation of the Figure 8 knot do you prefer to use? Do let us in the comment box below!