Half Hitch

( Single Hitch | ABOK #50 )

Animation: Half Hitch

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Usage

The Half Hitch is a simple Overhand Knot, where the working end of a line is brought over and under the standing part. Insecure on its own, it is a valuable component of a wide variety of useful and reliable hitches, bends, and knots.

Common Uses

  • add an extra wrap to another knot for additional security.
  • temporarily hold a rope in place while tying a better knot.
  • form the building block of many other knots hitches.
  • secure a wire or cable for pulling through a conduit or pipe.
  • add securing wraps when hoisting a hose or tool line.
  • add a finishing half hitch when securing a rope to a belaying pin.
  • add securing half hitches when hoisting tools up the side of a building.

Also known as

  • Single Hitch

ABOK

  • 50

Structure

A Half Hitch is structurally identical to the Overhand Knot.

Strength/Reliability

The Half Hitch is not secure on its own and should not be used for anything except as a component of other knots.