Usage
The Clove Hitch is commonly used in pioneering to start and finish a lashing such as the Square Lashing, Diagonal Lashing and Shear Lashing. This knot is considered by many to be an "essential" knot.
Warning
Verify tying technique with a skilled instructor where knot failure could cause property damage, injury, or death.
History
The name Clove Hitch is given by William Falconer in his book "Universal Dictionary of the Marine" published in 1769. However, the knot is much older, having been tied in ratlines (rope steps) of sailing ships as early as the sixteenth century as evidenced by sculpture and paintings of the time.
Also known as
ABOK
Structure
The structure of the Clove Hitch is identical to that of the
Two Half Hitches — except that the Clove Hitch is tied around a post or ring rather than the standing end of the rope.
Strength/Reliability
The Clove Hitch is very secure when both sides of the knot are under tension. However, when only loading one end, the hitch is prone to slip. Also, though it can be used as a binding knot, it is not particularly secure in that role.
