The Munter Mule Hitch is a combination of the Munter Hitch with an additional locking component called the “Mule.”
This setup starts with a loaded Munter Hitch and tied off with an Overhand Slip Knot around the load strand. It is then backed off with a Half Hitch knot.
It’s used when a temporary locking off of a rope is needed while belaying or during a rescue operation.
Let’s learn it in detail.
Munter Mule Hitch Details
Type: Slide and Grip Knots
Other Names: Munter Mule Overhand (MMO)
ABoK Reference: Not Listed
How to Tie the Munter Mule Hitch
- Tie a Munter Hitch.
- Pass the brake strand to the right side.
- Make two loops in the rope.
- Feed the right loop through the left one.
- Take it to the right side.
- Feed the bight through the loop and tighten the knot.
Munter Mule Hitch Step by Step
Releasing the Munter Mule Hitch
To untie the Munter Mule Hitch, first undo the Half Hitch knot. Then, pull the brake strand forward until the Slip Knot unties.
Expect a bit of rope to slip through the Munter Hitch as it releases.
ALWAYS hold the brake strands tight while undoing the Mule.
Application and Uses
- Escaping the belay: Helps belayers to free themselves from the system while staying securely anchored.
- Passing a knot: Helps bypass the knots in the rope while rappelling.
- Going hands free while rappelling: Allows to tie off the hitch so climbers can manage gear, help their partner, or handle an emergency.
- Load Transfer in rescue: Transfer weighted loads like an unconscious climber to another rope system without needing to unweight the rope.
Pros & Cons
- Does not require additional hardware—just a locking carabiner.
- Can be tied off and can released under tension.
- Can twist the rope if used regularly.
Other Common Tie off
Munter Mule Overhand (MMO)
The Munter Mule Overhand is popularly used to tie off the Munter Hitch when belaying or escaping the system.
You’ll start off with the Munter Hitch in a loaded position. Then, tie a Slip Knot around the load strand with the help of the brake strand. Put enough slack on the rope to back it up with an Overhand Knot.
Some climbers prefer to clip the loop of the mule with a carabiner for extra security.
Munter Tied off with Half Hitches
This tie off method is another way to secure the Munter Hitch.
To tie this tie off, form a long loop with the rope from the brake strand and tie the Two Half Hitches around the load strand.
This works well for the Munter Hitch, but it can be difficult to control when used with a heavily loaded system.
Super Munter Tie Off
The Super Munter tie off is associated with the Super Munter Hitch.
To tie this hitch, instead of opening the carabiner to complete the second Munter Hitch, pass a long bight through and secure it with Two Half Hitches.
This method is useful when dealing with heavy loads. It also prevents twists and kinks in the rope.
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