The Overhand on a bight is probably the simplest loop knot familiar to almost everyone, even if they don’t realize it.
As the name suggests it’s made by forming an Overhand knot in a bight of the rope.
It forms a secure and fixed loop that can be tied at the end of a line or anywhere along the rope.
OVERHAND ON A BIGHT DETAILS
Type: Loop knot
Other Names: Double Overhand Loop
ABoK Reference: #518, #1009, #1046
How to Tie an Overhand on a Bight Knot
- Take a section of the rope and fold it to create a bight.
- Form an Overhand knot by crossing the doubled rope over itself.
- Take the bight and pass it through the loop created by the overhand knot.
- Pull on both the standing parts and the loop to tighten the knot securely.
You’ve tied this knot correctly, if you notice a set of two parallel lines in the knot.
To untie, hold the knot and simply push the standing end upwards. Then, pull out the loop end from the knot to release it.
Quick TIP
If you need a temporary loop knot that is easy to untie, make a slipped version of Overhand Loop knot.
After forming an Overhand Loop with the bight, fold the bight and feed it through the rope. Tighten the knot and it will give you a temporary loop knot.
To untie this knot, simply pull the withdraw loop.
Also, if you need a more secure variation, try Double Overhand Loop.
It involves an extra turn, resulting in a bulkier and more secure knot.
Possible Alternative: Bowline Knot
While the Overhand loop knot is perfectly secure and handy, it tends to jam after bearing a heavy load.
If you want a secure knot that is easy to untie, consider the Bowline Knot.
It creates a secure loop at the end of a rope that won’t slip under the load and is easy to untie. However, it can shake loose when unloaded.
Strength
The simple Overhand Knot retains the rope strength by 50% to 60%. However, with the Overhand loop, the Relative strength of the rope can increase up to 85%.
It’s worth noting that it is not commonly used in maritime activities because it can jam badly and becomes a real struggle to untie after being loaded.
Applications and Uses
Fishing
In fishing, the Overhand loop is used to create a secure loop in the end of the fishing line to attach hooks, or lures.
Climbing
In climbing, it is used to create an attachment point for carabiners or climbing gears.
Boating
In boating activities, this knot can be used to create a temporary attachment point for ropes.
Camping and Outdoors
It is used to create adjustable guy lines or attaching ropes to stakes or trees.
Other Uses
It is also handy for making loops in lanyards or it can also be used for tying parcels.
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