Tensionless Hitch

The Tensionless Hitch is one of the strongest anchor hitches.

It’s used to secure a rope around an anchor by retaining most of the rope’s breaking strength.

Unlike other Hitches, it does not rely on the knot itself for strength and relies on friction created by the wraps around the anchor. 

It’s effective for handling large loads in rescue work, climbing and rigging.

Let’s learn it in detail.

Quick Guide

To Tie the Tensionless Hitch, first make sure your anchor is strong. If using the tree as an anchor, it should be at least 5 inches in diameter and 5 feet tall.

Start with the rope ends and take a few coils in your hand. Then, wrap them around the tree 4-5 times. You may require more ropes, so plan it accordingly.

Now, tie Figure 8 on a Bight around the rope end. Then, clip the carabiner into the loop and the standing end.

How to Tie the Tensionless Hitch Knot

1. Make 3-4 wraps around the post.
2. Tie Figure 8 on a Bight in the end.
3. Clip the carabiner into the loop and the standing end.

That’s it! You have done this right if the standing end comes straight off the anchor without kinks or force on the carabiner.

Things to Consider

• The diameter of the anchor should be at least 8-10 times the diameter of the rope.
• The number of turns depends on the type of surface—a smooth surface requires more turns.
• Avoid sharp edges on the anchor—it can reduce the strength of the rope.
• The wrap alone should hold the load. The carabiner and the Figure 8 Loop used are a safety mechanism only. It can be left hanging loosely, which is why it’s called the Tensionless Hitch.
• When tied around natural anchors like trees, use the rope rub protector to avoid damage to the trees.

How to Tie the Tensionless Hitch Without a Carabiner

Want to tie the Tensionless Hitch without the carabiner? No problem!

First, make 4-5 turns around the anchor. Then tie a Rethreaded Figure 8 Knot around the standing line.

Some prefer to use the Running Bowline with the Tensionless Hitch tied in the Noose of the Running Bowline.

Application and Uses

The Tensionless Hitch is used in search and rescue operations, firefighting and climbing to attach a rope to the anchor while retaining maximum rope strength.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Easy to tie and remember
• Most secure and retains 100% rope strength
• Does not jam and super easy to untie

Cons

• Requires large anchors
• Requires long ropes, may lead to rope wastage

Similar Knots

Round Turn and Two Half Hitches

The Tensionless Hitch is closely associated with the Round Turn and Two Half Hitches. 

The key difference? Instead of just one round turn around the anchor, the Tensionless Hitch uses several wraps.

This provides friction enough to hold the knot in place and handle heavy loads.

Lighterman’s Hitch

The Lighterman’s Hitch starts with the wraps around the anchor.

After each turn is made, the direction of the turn is reversed which results in a secure hitch.

It exerts less rotational force on the anchor than the Tensionless Hitch.

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