KNOTS, BENDS, AND HITCHES

Figure 7-18.Single- and double-becket bends.

Basic Military Requirements (BMR) Revised Edition
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KNOTS, BENDS, AND HITCHES Except among seamen, the word knot is ordinarily used as an all-inclusive term, covering the more specific use of knots plus bends and hitches. Even seamen find it hard to clearly define the terms knot, bend, and hitch because their functions overlap like the bowline knot and many other instances. In general, however, the terms may be defined as follows: Knots. Knots are used to form eyes or to secure a cord or line around an object, such as a package. In other words, the line is bent to itself. Hitches. Hitches are used to bend a line to or around an object, such as a ring, spar, or stanchion. Bends. Bends are used to secure two lines together. All Navy personnel should know the square knot, bowline, single- and double-becket bends, round turn and two half hitches, and clove hitch. Navy personnel should know when these knots, bends, and hitches are used. Before reading further, look at figure 7-15, which shows a few terms that make it easier for you to understand the following procedures. Square Knot The square knot, also known as the reef knot from its use in reefing sails, is quickly and easily made and has a great many uses. It will not slip, but it can jam under heavy strain. It can be loosened, however, by pulling on first one and then the other end. Figure 7-16 shows steps in making a square knot. Bowline The bowline, with its many variations, has a lot of uses. Its chief use is to form an eye; but it can also be used to secure a line to a pad eye, to secure another ring around a stanchion or other object, or to bend two lines together. To tie a bowline, you should— 1. Grasp the bitter end of the line in the right hand and the standing part in the left hand (opposite, if left-handed). Assuming you are using small stuff, the length of line between your hands should be about 2 feet. 2. Throw an overhand loop counterclockwise near your left hand (clockwise near your right hand, if you are left-handed). 3. Grasp the loop formed and hold it. Pass the bitter end up through the bottom of the loop, as shown in figure 7-17, view A. 4. Pull the bitter end up through the loop, and pass it around behind the standing part of the line (fig. 7-17, view B). 5. Pass the bitter end down through the loop beside the line that was pulled up through the loop (fig. 7-17, view C). 6. To tighten the knot, grasp the standing part in one hand and the two lines passed through the loop with the other hand, and pull. 7-11 Student Notes: Figure 7-16.—Square knot. Figure 7-15.—Elements of knots, bends, and hitches.

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