The Span loop forms a single loop at the middle of the rope.
The best thing about this knot?
It does not jam and is extremely easy to untie, even under the load.
Is it better than the Alpin Butterfly Knot? Not really. But, it works well under moderate loads.
Let’s learn it in detail.
Span Loop Knot Details
Type: Loop
Other Names: None
ABoK Reference: #1049
How to Tie a Span Loop Knot
The Span loop is an easy to tie knot.
If you know how to tie a Sheepshank knot, you are halfway there.
To tie the Span Loop start as if you are tying the Sheepshank knot, tuck the bight inside the loop and tighten the knot.
- Make an Overhand Loop with the working end.
- Make a bight on the working end and feed it through the loop.
- Take another bight and pass it through the other loop.
- Tighten the knot.
Application and Uses
- Slinging and Rigging: Arborists use the span loop for tree works. It’s secure for rigging works and easy to untie after use.
- Tackle Block Systems: It’s also used to attach hooks to a tackle block system.
- Trucker’s Hitch: It’s used to make a loop for the Trucker’s hitch.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy to tie
- Strong and secure
- Extremely easy to untie
Cons
- Can not be tied under load
Other Similar Knots
Alpine Butterfly Knot
The Alpine Butterfly Knot is another single loop knot formed in the middle of the rope.
Unlike the Span loop knot, it is symmetrical and works best for multi directional loading.
It’s perfect for heavy loading tasks as well.
Farmer’s Loop
The Farmer’s Loop is also a single loop knot.
It’s not symmetrical in appearance but is easy to tie and is difficult to forget once the knot is mastered.
Artillery Loop
The Artillery Loop (also known as the Harness Loop or the Artilleryman’s Loop) forms a loop in the middle of the rope.
It’s inferior to the Alpine Butterfly Loop and the Farmer’s Loop because if the loops are not loaded the knot can deform into a Noose knot.
It’s not ideal for critical applications.
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