Barrel hitch

Barrel hitch
Names Barrel hitch, Barrel Sling
Category Hitch
Related Overhand knot, bowline
ABoK #459, #2176 and #2177

The "barrel hitch" and "barrel sling," named for their use in hoisting cargo aboard ships, are a simple yet effective way to suspend an object. The barrel sling lays the barrel on its side, while the barrel hitch keeps it vertical. They work by forming a "sling" around the object, which supports it from either side and underneath.

The barrel sling (not pictured) is made with a strop. The barrel is laid on its side, both sides of the strop are spread out and passed underneath, the ends of the strop are raised together, one end is tucked through the other and hooked to an eyehook. The tightened knot looks like a cow hitch. A cow hitch and bowline can achieve the same effect and are called a "cow hitch hoist." The barrel hitch for lifting bales of hay is called a "bale sling hitch."

Tying

How to tie a barrel hitch

Warning

Though the barrel hitch will keep an object upright even if the rope is made to swing, it is important to note that strong jerking movements while raising or lowering can easily dislodge the sling.

References

Barrel Hitch Animated

See also

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