The Fireman’s Coil is an efficient way to coil and store ropes temporarily.
It looks neat and can be released quickly with a simple pull on the rope’s end when needed.
Let’s learn it in detail.
Fireman’s Coil Knot Detail
Type: Rope Coil
Other Names: Fireman Coil
ABoK Reference: #3094
How to Tie the Fireman’s Coil Knot
To tie the Fireman’s Coil, start by coiling ropes in your hand. You can either use the regular looping method or the over-under method—just keep the loops even. When the rope is coiled, make a loop mid rope at the top of the last coil. Then, grab the working end behind the coil and feed the bight through the loop. At last, tighten the knot.
Step-by-step guide:
- Make a coil with your rope by looping the rope in circles. Use one hand to make the circles and the other hand to hold the ropes.
- Make a loop at the end of the coil (the one after the last coil is made).
- Pass the working end to the back of the coil.
- Make a bight and feed the bight through the loop.
- Tighten the first loop into the second loop.
To release the knot, just pull the free end of the rope where the loop is formed.
Application and Uses
The Fireman’s Coil is used by sailors, climbers, firefighters and rescue workers.
It keeps the rope tangle-free and ready when it’s needed.
It’s easy and convenient but should not be used in situations where dynamic load is involved.
Other Similar Rope Coil Knots
Sailor’s Coil
The Sailor’s Coil (ABoK #3098) is a secure coil knot made by tying two half hitches on either side of each other around the coil.
It stands considerable handling without unraveling.
Quickie Coil
The Quickie Coil Knot (ABoK #3099) is tied similarly to the Sailor’s coil knot but is a bit easier to tie.
You just wrap the working end around the coil two times (first to the right, then to the left) and tuck the it through the first loop.
Alpine Coil
The Alpine Coil Knot is used by climbers for storing and transporting climbing ropes.
It’s also known as the mountaineer’s coil or climber’s coil.
Gasket Coil
The Gasket Coil Knot (ABoK #3089) is used to store long ropes or extension cords.
It prevents tangles and is easier to handle.
It’s tied by wrapping the ropes into a large flat coil and then securing it around the middle of the coil for storage.
Which one of the coil knots do you use in your day-to-day work? Do let us know in the comment section below.
