Trucker's hitch
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Trucker's hitch | |
|---|---|
 |
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| Names | Trucker's hitch, Lorry Hitch, Haymaker's Hitch, Harvester's Hitch, Dolly Knot |
| Category | hitch |
| Origin | Ancient |
| Releasing | Non-jamming |
| Typical use | Making a rope very tight, such as to secure an object to a vehicle |
| Caveat | None |
| ABoK | #2124 |
The trucker's hitch is a self-binding knot commonly used for securing loads on trucks or trailers.
The first section of the hitch is a double-twisted version of a slipknot loop. With the right hand, grab the rope and make a (fold) loop about one foot long, holding the base of the loop with the left hand. Twist the left hand twice (once would be a standard slipknot) and insert the right-hand end of the loop through the twist. (The base of the loop should look like a double figure eight knot.)
The second section of the hitch tightens and secures the load to a securing point (or an existing section of rope).
Fold the rope again to the right of the first knot, and loop this double-strand around the securing point. Bring the double-strand back and through the first knot's loop, tighten (you can hold the hitch tight with the left thumb and forefinger) and tie a doubled two half hitches around the tight double-strand to secure the line. You may then continue to use the right-hand side of the rope for more securing.
The hitch may be released (or retightened) by loosening the doubled two half hitches.
[edit] Advantages
- Non-jamming
- Can be tied anywhere in the standing part of the line
- Works like a pulley, providing 3:1 mechanical advantage in tensioning
- Multiple hitches can be cascaded, giving 5:1 and higher mechanical advantage
