How to Tie the Figure Eight Loop

How to Tie the Figure Eight Loop

Usage

The Figure Eight Loop is a reliable fixed loop knot widely used in climbing, caving, and decorative applications. It’s an essential knot for creating a secure loop at the end of a rope or around an object. While simple to tie and verify, it can jam after heavy loads, especially in stiff ropes. The follow-through (re-threaded) method is ideal for tying the knot around objects that cannot easily have a loop slipped over them, such as attaching a rope to a climbing harness. Practice it on a spare length of paracord, or drill the sequence with our Knot Tying Kit until it becomes automatic.

Why Learn the Figure Eight Loop?

This knot stands out for its unmistakable design, which makes it easy to check for safety and correctness. While it may jam after heavy loads, its security and versatility make it an essential skill for climbers, cavers, and anyone needing a fixed loop. It’s also easier to teach and verify compared to more advanced knots like the Double Bowline. You can preview the full tying sequence in 3D with the Knot IQ app before practicing on rope.

Common Uses

The loop shows up anywhere a fast, checkable end-loop is needed, from technical rope work to everyday utility tasks around camp or the workshop.

• Climbing and Caving:
  • Attaching ropes to harnesses.
  • Creating fixed loops for anchors or belays.
• Decorative Applications:
  • Crafting ornamental loops and creating secure loops for display purposes.
• General Utility:
  • Securing loops for hauling or lifting and creating loops for towing or attachment.

ABOK Number (Ashley Book of Knots) #1047 (p. 186) Other Names Flemish Loop Figure Eight on a Bight Blood Bight Type Anchor / End Loop

Notable Features

• Secure and Reliable: Holds its shape well under load and resists slipping once dressed correctly.
• Easy to Verify: Its distinctive design makes it easy to check for correctness at a glance, even from a distance.
• Versatile: Works well for climbing, caving, and decorative purposes, and adapts to both bight and follow-through tying.
• Simple to Tie: Can be tied using the bight method or follow-through method for added flexibility.

Variations

Figure Eight Follow-Through vs. Figure Eight Loop

• Pros: Useful when tying around fixed objects — see our Figure Eight Follow-Through guide.
• Cons: Takes more time to tie.

Similar Knots

Figure Eight Follow-Through vs. Figure Eight Loop

• Pros: Secure for tying loops around objects — full steps in our Figure Eight Follow-Through guide.
• Cons: Requires additional time and steps.

Double Bowline vs. Figure Eight Loop

• Pros: Easier to untie after heavy loads — see our Double Bowline guide.
• Cons: Less intuitive and harder to teach.

Double Dragon Loop Knot (Rope End Method) vs. Figure Eight Loop

• Pros: Provides a strong, secure loop; easy to adjust and untie — see our Double Dragon Loop guide.
• Cons: Slightly more complex to tie.

History

The Figure Eight Loop has a long history as a reliable loop knot, valued for its simplicity and security. While primarily associated with climbing and caving, it has also found uses in decorative applications and general utility work. Its design is praised for being easy to inspect and recognize, making it a preferred choice for beginners and safety-critical tasks. The Ashley Book of Knots (ABOK) catalogues it as entry #1047, placing it among the standard anchor and end-loop knots documented in that reference.

Security Level

The Figure Eight Loop is generally secure and reliable for light to moderate loads. However, it can jam under heavy strain, making it difficult to untie. For critical applications, always ensure the knot is tied and dressed correctly. This jamming tendency in stiff rope is also noted in Wikipedia's entry on the figure-eight loop.

Downsides

• Can Jam: Under heavy loads, especially in stiff ropes.
• Hard to Untie: Takes more effort to untie after significant tension, sometimes needing to be worked loose bit by bit.
• Not Adjustable: Not suitable for applications requiring frequent adjustment once it's dressed and loaded.

Structure (Step-by-Step Instructions)

1. Double the rope to create a bight.
2. Form a loop with the bight, leaving enough length for the knot.
3. Pass the working end of the bight around the standing part.
4. Thread the working end back through the initial loop.
5. Pull on the standing part to tighten and dress the knot.

Follow-Through Method:

1. Tie a loose Figure Eight Knot in the rope with extra tail length.
2. Pass the tail around or through the object you’re securing.
3. Retrace the tail through the original Figure Eight Knot.
4. Pull on the standing part to tighten and dress the knot.

FAQ

What is the Figure Eight Loop used for?

It’s used for creating secure, fixed loops in climbing, caving, and decorative applications.

Why is the Figure Eight Loop preferred for beginners?

Its design is easy to teach, verify, and inspect, making it ideal for safety-critical tasks.

Can the Figure Eight Loop handle heavy loads?

Yes, but it can jam and become difficult to untie after significant strain.

What is the follow-through method?

The follow-through (or re-threaded) method is used when tying the knot around objects that cannot easily have a loop slipped over them.

How does it compare to the Double Bowline?

The Double Bowline is easier to untie after heavy loads but is less intuitive to tie and verify.

Important Notes on Safety

The Figure Eight Loop is a dependable knot for many applications, but always verify its structure, especially in safety-critical situations. Inspect ropes for wear and test the knot under load to ensure security.