The Kalmyk Loop creates a fixed loop at the end of the rope.
If you know how to tie the Eskimo Bowline or the Cossack Knot, you are just a step away from forming this excellent quick-release knot.
It’s mostly popular in Russia but is slowly gaining popularity in the West.
Let’s learn it in detail.
Kalmyk Loop Details
Type: Loop
Other Names: Slipped Eskimo Bowline
ABoK Reference: Not Available
How to Tie a Kalmyk Loop Knot
- Make a loop in the rope.
- Feed the tag end through the loop.
- Make a bight in the working part.
- Pass it over other parts and under the standing end.
- Tighten the knot.
To release the knot, just pull on the free end and the knot will spill instantly.
Kalmyk Loop Step by Step
How to Tie a Kalmyk Loop Around an Object: Quick Method
- Pass the rope around the object.
- Hold the working end under the standing end.
- Make a round turn around the hand using the standing end going under and over.
- Slide the side of the turn near the working end under the other side of the turn.
- Slip the nearest part of the turn (close to the working end) off your hand.
- Grab the working end.
- Pull your hand out and pull the bight.
- Tighten the knot.
Tightening TIPS
The Kalmyk Loop is an easy to tie knot, but people often mess it up.
The mistake happens if you pull the rope on the left side of the rope; it will turn into a Slip knot.
Always tighten the knot by pulling on the standing end and the right side of the loop.
Pros & Cons
- Easy to tie.
- Released quickly with the tug of the tag end
- Can fail if not tied and dressed properly.
Applications and Uses
The Kalmyk Loop can be used in situations where a fixed loop is needed at the end of the rope that’s easy to untie.
- Bushcraft: It’s often used by bushcrafters to build temporary shelters as it’s easy to untie and untie.
- Camping: Perfect for securing the taps and guylines to the post or tree.
- Alternative to Bowline? Some argue that it can be used as an alternative to the Bowline in certain scenarios.
Kalmyk Loop and Bowline
The Bowline is a classic knot that is unofficially called “The King of Knots.”
It’s a must-know knot because it’s time-tested, versatile, and reliable.
That said, it’s not perfect either: it can loosen when there is no tension in the line.
The Kalmyk Loop solves that issue and adds a quick-release feature to the mix.
Still, both knot is recommended for life-critical applications and should only be used with light-duty tasks.
Fun Fact: The Kalmyk Loop is named after the Kalmyks—a nomadic ethnic group in Russia.
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