The Halter Hitch is a quick release knot used to tie a rope to a post or fence, usually to secure horses.
It’s actually a Noose knot tied with the bight instead of the working end. The tying method is a little different, though.
It’s easy to tie, remember, and untie even if the rope is under tension.
Let’s learn it in detail.
Halter Hitch Details
Type: Quick Release Knots
Other Names: Slip Noose Hitch, Slip Noose
ABoK Reference: #243, #1715, #1804, #1826
How to Tie a Halter Hitch Knot
- Pass the rope around the object.
- Cross the working end over the standing end of the rope.
- Pass it behind both parts.
- Form a bight and feed it through the loop.
- Tighten the knot.
Want extra security? Pass the tag end through the bight as shown in the last slide. This locks the knot and it won’t come loose unless you want it to.
Pros & Cons
- Easy to tie and remember.
- Super easy to untie.
- Not safe for critical applications.
Application and Uses
The Halter hitch is commonly used in ranches to tie animals like mules, horses and other animals to a post.
Since it’s a quick-release hitch, you can free the rope even if it’s under heavy tension.
It’s also used to secure the tent ridgelines around the tree.
Other Quick-Release Knots
Slipped Buntline Hitch
The Slipped Buntline hitch is the secured alternative to the Halter hitch.
The Halter Hitch is simple to tie but can capsize under certain loading conditions.
The Slipped version of the Bunt;ine hitch has time-tested security, especially under cyclic loading conditions.
Siberian Hitch
The Siberian Hitch is more secure and stronger than the Halter Hitch.
The Halter Hitch is based on the Overhand slip whereas the Siberian Hitch is based on the Figure 8 slip, which makes it technically more stronger.
Tumble Hitch
The Tumble Hitch is the most secure quick release hitch but difficult to learn for beginners.
Highwayman’s Hitch
The Highwayman’s hitch is not as secure as the Tumble hitch but is one of the strong quick release hitch.
The locking bight of this hitch can collapse under tension, so you need to be cautious.
Fun Fact: In Ashley’s Book of Knots (page 5), it’s mentioned that “I was seven my father gave me a pony on condition that I master the Halter Hitch.”
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