The Two Half Hitches is an ancient knot with maritime history. According to the Ashley Book of Knots, the name “Two Half Hitches” was given by Steel in 1974.
It’s basically an overhand knot tied around an object, followed by a Half Hitch.
It is perfect for securing a rope to a post, ring, or tree.
TWO HALF HITCHES DETAILS
Type: Hitch
ABoK Reference: #1781, #1710
How to Tie Two Half Hitches
- First, tie a single half hitch around the object.
- Follow up with a second half hitch.
- Tighten the knot.
Make sure you tie the second half hitch in the same direction as the first one. Otherwise, it will turn into a Reverse Hitch (ABoK #1713).
To untie this knot, spill apart the two hitches with a bending motion.
Quick TIP
The Two half hitch is already a solid secure hitch. In fact, Admiral Luce once said, “Two Half Hitches will never slip.“
However, if you want to secure the knots further, add more hitches to the half hitches.
Two Half Hitches vs Clove Hitch
People often confuse Two Half Hitches with Clove Hitch. However, they are two distinct hitches.
The Two Half Hitches is tied by forming an Overhand knot around its standing part after tying a single turn around an object.
It is easier to tie but can be difficult to untie when tension is applied.
The Clove hitch is tied directly around the object. It is easier to tie and untie under tension.
Other Alternatives
Buntline Hitch
It is almost identical to the Two Half Hitches, but the second half hitch is tied inside of the first one.
It is more secure but can jam.
Slipped Half Hitches
The Two Half Hitches can often jam and can be difficult to untie.
To prevent jamming, tie a slipped variation of this knot by passing a bight through the second half hitch, rather than the tail end.
Round Turn and Two Half Hitches
It is a more secure alternative to Two Half Hitches. The round turn actually helps to reduce the initial load strain making it easy to tie the Hitches.
Plus, it adds friction against the support which helps to maintain a secure grip and prevent slippage.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- It is easy to tie and can be slipped for quick removal.
Cons
- It will collapse down if used for dynamic tension and also bind while under tension.
- Difficult to untie
Applications and Uses
Camping and Outdoor Activities
While camping, campers use this hitch to secure the guylines.
You can even attach tools or equipment to trees or poles using this knot.
Load Securing and Management
In logistics, this hitch is frequently used to secure loads on vehicles. It’ll keep items from shifting during transport.
Boating and Sailing
Sailors often rely on this hitch to tie mooring lines to docks and boats. It creates a stronghold that prevents boats from drifting away.
Macrame
In Macrame, this knot is referred to as Double Half Hitches, but it is tied the same as Two Half Hitches. It is used to make vertical, diagonal, and horizontal designs.
Other Uses
This knot can come in handy whether you are attaching a clothesline or hanging a banner, or moving large objects like logs.
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