Scott’s Locked Bowline

The Scott’s Locked Bowline is the secure variation of the regular Bowline.

It’s tied in the similar way, but with the tag end locked inside the loop.

This small tweak makes it inherently more secure than the classic Bowline which tends to slip when there’s no tension in the line.

Let’s learn it in detail.

How to Tie the Scott’s Locked Bowline

To tie the Scott’s Locked Bowline, make a loop in the rope and make sure there’s enough length for the size of loop you want. Pass the working end through the loop and then bring it behind the standing part of the rope. Then pass the working end through the original loop again. Now lock the working end by feeding it through the loop. At last, tighten the knot.

1. Make a loop in the rope, leaving enough length for the desired loop size.
2. Pass the working end through the loop.
3. Pass it behind the standing part and down through the loop again.
4. Feed it through the loop to lock the tag end.
5. Tighten the knot.

Application and Uses

The Scott’s Locked Bowline can be used as an alternative to the classic Bowline. It’s used in the following applications:

• Climbing, caving, and rescue: Secure alternative to a standard bowline, resistant to cross-loading and capsizing.
• Mooring and securing loads: Provides a secure fixed loop that stays stable under variable tensions.
• Camping and outdoor tasks: It’s useful for securing gear or creating stable loops under load.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Inherently more secure than regular Bowline
• Resistant to cross loading and capsizing
• Does not jam under heavy loading

Cons

• Not widely known
• More complex to tie than the regular Bowline

Scott’s Locked Bowline Based on Left-handed Bowline

It’s an improved version of the Left handed Bowline (ABoK #1034 ½) in terms of security.

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