How To Tie a Tripod Lashing

Usage

A Tripod Lashing is used to bind 3 logs or poles to create a secure tripod structure. It’s a great one to know how to do, as it’s the foundation for various campsite improvements, projects, cooking setups and scouts / pioneering structures.

Why Learn the Knot

This is a foundational skill for any outdoors person. Whether you're setting up a temporary campsite or working on larger basecamp projects, binding logs into a tripod securely is the basis for a whole range of possibilities.

Common Uses

Camping and Bushcraft:

A foundation for a survival shelter
Create a structure to hang a pot over a fire
Making a Bushcraft Chair
Making a Bushcraft Table
A drying rack for meat or fish
A sturdy washbasin or stand for a lantern
Hang a water bag, or gear

Pioneering / Scout Projects:

Use as a foundation for bridges, towers, and Chippewa Kitchens.
Building bushcraft chairs, benches, and shelters

ABOK Number

(Ashley Book of Knots)

#2107

Other Names

Gyn Lashing, Figure of Eight Lashing, Three-Spar Shear Lashing

Variations

There are two main ways of tying the Tripod Lashing:

Plain Turns: Simply wrap the rope around all three spars and add two frapping turns at each joint.
Racking Turns: Weave the rope through the spars in a figure-eight fashion, which increases contact between rope and wood to reduce slipping. This is the way I typically do mine.

Notable Features

Stable tripod structure
Easy and quick to tie if using plain turns
Racking turns provide additional security by reducing slipping
Can support an immense weight

Similar / Related Knots

Clove Hitch

Advantage: Simple and quick to tie. Is the foundation for this knot.
Disadvantage: May slip if not properly secured. (Can use a Constrictor Hitch instead)

Constrictor Hitch

Advantage: More secure than the Clove hitch.
Disadvantage: It’s a permanent knot, meaning it is very difficult to get undone and you may need to cut it.

Shear Lashing

Advantage: Useful for joining two poles together.
Disadvantage: May not provide as much stability for tripod structures.

Square Lashing

Advantage: Useful for joining two poles together at a 90 degree angle.
Disadvantage: Does not necessarily replace the need for a tripod, but can be used in conjunction with one

Security Level

The tripod is highly stable when lashed properly, but care must be taken to not overtighten the frapping turns, as they will naturally tighten when the legs are spread.

Downsides

If tied too tightly, the tripod legs will not spread properly, which may result in the need to re-tie or loosen the frapping turns.

Structure

Step 1: Begin with a Clove Hitch around one pole.
Step 2: Weave the rope between the three poles with Plain Turns or Racking Turns. (I recommend Racking Turns)
Step 3: Continue weaving until five or six turns are made.
Step 4: Make two frapping turns between each of the poles.
Step 5: Finish with a Clove Hitch on the opposite pole.
Step 6: Cross the outside poles to form the tripod.

History

The Tripod Lashing has been a fundamental knot in pioneering and scouting for decades, frequently used in building temporary camp structures. It's been a staple of outdoor manuals, including those for scouts, and continues to be taught for its versatility and ease of use.

FAQ

What is the Tripod Lashing used for?

It’s used to form a stable tripod structure, often for camp cooking, survival structures, or larger projects like bridges and towers.

What’s the difference between plain turns and racking turns?

Plain turns simply wrap around the spars, they're a bit easier to do - while racking turns weave in a figure-eight, providing better grip and reducing slipping.

How do I adjust the tension on the frapping turns?

Make sure the frapping turns aren’t too tight, as they will naturally tighten when the tripod legs are spread.

Can I use this knot for heavy loads?

Yes, the tripod lashing can handle moderate loads, but always ensure the lashing is secure and tight.

What materials do I need for a tripod lashing?

Three spars (or poles) and about 12-15 feet of rope, preferably something like non-stretch bushcraft paracord, tarred bankline, or others.

Important Notes on Safety

Ensure the frapping turns are left loose enough to allow the tripod legs to spread. Avoid over tightening, as this may damage the rope or make the tripod unstable.

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