The Lapp Knot is a bend knot that is used to join two ropes together.
It is similar in structure to the Sheet Bend or Bowline, but differs in how the standing and working ends are used.
It’s a versatile knot that can be used as a bend, loop knot, or binding knot.
Let’s learn it in detail.
Lapp Knot Details
Type: Bend Knot
Other Names: False Sheet Bend, Lap Knot, Girdle Knot, English Bowline
ABoK Reference: Not Available
How to Tie the Lapp Knot
- Make a bight with one end of the rope.
- Pass the working end of the other rope over and under the bight of the first rope.
- Pass it over itself and through the loop.
- Tighten the knot.
You have done this right if you have the working ends on the same side of the knot.
If they end up on the different side, you have tied the Anti-Lapp Knot—the evil imposter (refer to the last slide).
Slipped Lapp Knot
Want a quick release version? Instead of feeding the working end through in the last step, just feed the bight.
The knot explodes, meaning the knot falls apart completely without any entanglement.
Lapp Knot vs Sheet Bend
At first glance, the Lapp Knot looks like the Sheet bend in appearance. That’s why it is sometimes called the False Sheet Bend.
But both are two different knots.
The Lapp Bend is just as strong or even stronger than the Sheet Bend.
Application and Uses
As a Bend Knot
The Lapp Knot can be used as a bend knot to join two ropes together.
It can be tied in the slipped form which makes it easy to untie later. But it should be used for non-critical applications only.
It’s popularly used for camping to join shelter lines.
As a Loop Knot
The Lapp Knot can also be used as a Loop knot too.
It can be used as an alternative to the Bowline and looks similar to the left-handed Bowline or the Cowboy Bowline.
As a Binding Knot
The slipped Lapp Knot can be used as a binding knot to bundle or roll items together.
The exploding nature makes it easy to untie it easily.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy to tie and untie under load.
- Does not jam.
- Can be used as a loop, bend, or binding knot.
Cons
- Not reliable for critical uses.
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