Shear Lashing

The Shear Lashing is used to lash two poles together.

When done right, it creates a scissor-like shape with the poles crossing at the top and the bottom ends splayed out.

It’s normally used when you need to form A-frame legs to support weight or reinforce a broken or a weak pole.

Let’s learn it in detail.

How to Tie the Shear Lashing

To tie the Shear Lashing, start off by laying two poles side by side and tie the Clove Hitch on one pole. Make five or six turns around both poles. Then, tie two tight frapping turns between the poles. At last, tie the Clove Hitch on the same leg that you started the lashing with.

1. Lay two poles side by side and tie a Clove Hitch around one pole.
2. Wrap the working end around the poles with round lashing four to five times. Pull the rope tight on each turn.
3. Tuck the working end between both poles with a frapping turn.
4. Add another tight frapping turns. Pull the rope tight.
5. Tie a Clove Hitch around the same leg pole that started with.

Pro Tip

If you wish to make Shear legs for an A frame, follow the same steps as above—just wrap the turns slightly loose so it allows movement. 

Remember that the tighter the wraps and the more wrapping and frapping turns you take, the stiffer the lashing will be. 

Once done, pull the legs apart to make an A shape and adjust the tension to get a perfect spread.

Application and Uses

• Repair or strengthen the weak pole.
• Create an A frame to lift and hold heavy objects.
• A single shear pair can be used as a fulcrum to lift a bucket from a stream or multiple shear legs in a row create a structure like an aerial bridge.

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