Mid rope loop to take strain in one direction only.
Figure 8 Directional Loop
Mid rope loop to take strain in one direction only.
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To Step use Arrow Keys (
). Set Speed using 1 – 5.
Make a loop in the rope. Pass the loop behind the standing end. Continue around and through the opening beside the tail.
Uses: Ashley describes the Directional Figure 8 Knot as the second of two examples of a “Single Bowline on the Bight” (ABOK # 1058, p 191). It creates a loop in the middle of a rope and is used as a load-bearing knot by climbers to take strain in one direction only. In fact a strain from the wrong end actually capsizes the knot into one that slides, i.e., it functions as a noose so that the loop tightens under load.
Tying it: The first steps of the animation show that the tail is enclosed by the initial loop. This is an essential step in tying the Directional Figure 8 Knot correctly. Leaving the end outside this loop ties a knot that Ashley gives as the other example of a “Single Bowline on the Bight” (ABOK # 1057, p 191).
Similar Knots: Several other knots create a loop in the middle of a piece of rope including the Alpine Butterfly Loop, the Bowline on a Bight, the Figure 8 Double Loop and, for fishing, the Dropper Loop.
Advantages: The Directional Figure 8 Knot is quickly tied and is designed to take a load in one direction only.
Disadvantages: The Directional Figure 8 Knot can be difficult to undo after a shock load. It must not be used with the pull coming from the wrong end because of its propensity to capsize and constrict. For critical loads and when the load may be applied from either end, the Alpine Butterfly Loop is preferred.
