Figure 8 (Flemish) Knot Details
Uses: The Figure 8 (ABOK # 570, p 95.) provides a quick and convenient stopper knot to prevent a line sliding out of sight, e.g., up inside the mast. Its virtue is that, even after it has been jammed tightly against a block, it doesn't bind; it can be undone easily. This virtue is also, occasionally, a vice. The figure 8 can fall undone and then has to be retied.
Comparison: As a stopper knot the Figure 8 should be compared to other knots commonly used as stoppers including the
Double Overhand, and the
Ashley, both of which have the advantage of greater stability. However, the figure 8 is better than the simple overhand knot (picture left), which can bind so tightly that undoing it can be really difficult.
Climbing: For climbing, where safety is paramount, the
Double Overhand is the preferred Stopper knot. However, the Figure 8 is important to climbers because it is the basis for tying the
Figure 8 Bend (Rope Join), the
Figure 8 Loop Follow Through, and the
Double Figure 8 Loop.
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