Bend (Joining) Knots

How to tie a bend.

A bend is a type of knot used to securely join two ropes together, whether they are the same or different ropes, or ropes of different diameters. Bends are fundamental in activities where a strong and reliable connection is required, such as climbing and sailing, as well as in general rope work. The selection of a specific bend depends on factors like rope type, required strength, and ease of untying. Common bends include the Sheet Bend, Double Fisherman's Knot, Flat Overhand Bend (EDK), and Zeppelin Bend, each offering advantages for particular situations. Using the correct bend is critical to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Bend (Joining) Knots

Bend (Joining) Knots

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Alberto Knot

Connect fishing line of different diameters.

Albright Special

Albright Special

Join fishing line of different materials or diameters.

Alpine Butterfly Bend

Alpine Butterfly Bend

Securely join two ropes of similar size.

Ashley's Bend

Join two lines of stiff, slippery material.

Blood Knot

Join fishing lines of similar size.

Broach Bend

Join two ropes with a compact, non-jamming bend.

Carrick Bend

Securely join large, stiff rope or cable.

Diamond Knot

Decorative knot used as a stopper or in lanyards.

Double Dragon Bend

Double Dragon Bend

Strong joining knot for ropes of equal size.

Double Fisherman's Knot

Double Fisherman's Knot

Securely join two ropes of similar size, often used in climbing.

Double Harness Bend

Double Harness Bend

Securely join two ropes with ends exiting in parallel.

Double Sheet Bend

Double Sheet Bend

Securely join two ropes of different diameters or materials.

Double Simon (Over)

Double Simon (Over)

Join two ropes that are somewhat dissimilar in diameter or construction.

Double Simon (Under)

Double Simon (Under)

Join two ropes that are somewhat dissimilar in diameter or construction.

FG Knot

Slim, strong knot for connecting braided line to a mono or fluoro leader.

Figure Eight Bend

Figure Eight Bend

Securely joins two ropes, often used in climbing and rescue operations.

Fisherman's Knot

Fisherman's Knot

Join two ropes or fishing lines.

Flat Overhand Bend

Flat Overhand Bend

Simple joining knot, often used in rappelling.

Hunter's Bend

Securely join two ropes of similar size, especially effective with synthetic rope.

Lapp Knot

Simple bend to join two ropes.

Nail Knot

Join fishing line of different diameters.

Offset Figure Eight Bend

Offset Figure Eight Bend

Unsafe and inferior joining knot.

Racking Bend

join two ropes of different diameter.

Reever Knot

Secure knot for joining two ropes or bungee cord.

Sansome Bend

Join slippery or synthetic ropes securely.

Shake Hands Bend

Shake Hands Bend

Jam-resistant, compact way to connect two ropes.

Sheet Bend

Securely join ropes of different or similar size.

Simple Simon (Over)

Simple Simon (Over)

Join two ropes, especially slippery synthetic cordage.

Simple Simon (Under)

Simple Simon (Under)

Join ropes of different diameter, especially synthetics.

Surgeon's Knot (Fishing)

Surgeon's Knot (Fishing)

Used in fly fishing to join two lines.

Symmetric Simple Simon

Symmetric Simple Simon

A secure bend for joining slippery or dissimilar ropes under dynamic loading.

Three-way Sheet Bend

Three-way Sheet Bend

Securely join three ropes of different or similar size.

Triple Sheet Bend

Triple Sheet Bend

Securely join two ropes of different diameters or materials.

True Lover's Knot

True Lover's Knot

Decorative knot symbolizing love between two people.

Tucked Sheet Bend

Tucked Sheet Bend

Securely join ropes of different or similar size.

Uni-to-Uni Knot

Uni-to-Uni Knot

Join fishing line of similar or different diameters.

Vice Versa

Secure knot for joining synthetic ropes or shock cord.

Water Knot

Join two ends of webbing.

Yucatan Knot

Strong fishing knot for joining light line to heavier shock leader.

Zeppelin Bend

Excellent, jam-resistant way to connect two ropes.

Zeppelin Loop

Excellent, jam-resistant loop.

⚠️ Verify tying technique with a skilled instructor where knot failure could cause property damage, injury, or death.

Knot Categories

Knot Types