Knots
Knots are used extensively in Search and Rescue. This page documents the basic rope and knot skills you should have as a member of Cal-ESAR.
Basic knots
Basic knots
The list below links to information about each knot. Some knots in the list have links to instructional videos on how to tie them.
- Clove hitch
- Two half Hitches
- Taut Line Hitch
- Butterfly loop (video)
- Basic figure 8
- Figure 8 follow-through
- Figure 8 on a bight
- Directional Figure 8 (video)
- Figure 8 knot variations
- Double fisherman's (video)
- Prusik knot
- Tensionless Hitch (aka "No knot")
Flat webbing knot
Flat webbing knot
Rope belay knots
Rope belay knots
Webbing climbing harness
Webbing climbing harness
Rope/webbing storage
Rope/webbing storage
Additional resources
Additional resources
Websites
Websites
- List of knot terminology
- Animated Knots by Grog
- United States Search and Rescue Task Force: Ropes & Knots
- Love the Outdoors: Scouting Knots
- netknots.com: rope knots
Apps
Apps
- Rescue knots (iPhone)
- How to tie knots (Android)
- Animated Knots by Grog (Android, paid)
Books
Books
- The Ashley Book of Knots is an encyclopedia of knots. The book contains more than 3800 numbered entries and an estimated 7000 illustrations. The entries include knot instructions, uses, and some histories, categorized by type or function. It remains one of the most important and comprehensive books on knots. The abbreviation ABOK, followed by a number, is a common way to refer a knot back to location in Ashley's book.