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)
Other NamesGyn Lashing, Figure of Eight Lashing, Three-Spar Shear Lashing
CategoryLashings |
VariationsThere are two main ways of tying the Tripod Lashing:
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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.