How to Tie the Boa Knot

 

Usage

The Boa Knot is a highly secure binding knot, perfect for gripping cylindrical objects. Its structure ensures a firm hold, making it difficult to untie once set. This feature is ideal when permanence is needed but less suitable in situations requiring frequent adjustments.

Why Learn the Boa Knot?

When you need a knot that won’t budge, the Boa Knot is the answer. It’s designed for maximum grip, especially around cylindrical loads. Its compact form and reliable hold make it an excellent choice for tight spaces and heavy-duty binding tasks.

Common Uses

• Construction: Securing pipes or cylindrical materials during transport.
• Bushcraft and Camping: Binding gear tightly together for easier carrying.
• General Utility: Ideal for any situation requiring a secure, immovable binding around an object.

 

ABOK Number  (Ashley Book of Knots)  N/A   Other Names Double Overhand Noose   Type Binding Knots Self-Tightening Knots

 

Notable Features

• Extremely Secure: Holds exceptionally well, especially on cylindrical objects.
• Difficult to Untie: Not ideal for applications requiring quick release.
• Compact: The knot has a small footprint, making it perfect for tight spaces.

Variations

Constrictor Knot vs. Boa Knot

• Pros of the Constrictor Knot: Easier to tie but less secure when the object is cut close to the knot.
• Pros of the Boa Knot: Offers a firmer grip, especially on cylindrical objects.

Strangle Knot vs. Boa Knot

• Pros of the Strangle Knot: Shares a similar structure but provides slightly less security.
• Pros of the Boa Knot: Combines the best aspects of the Strangle and Constrictor knots for maximum hold.

Similar Knots

Constrictor Knot vs. Boa Knot

• Pros: Easy to tie and holds well.
• Cons: Less secure when the object is cut close to the binding.

Strangle Knot vs. Boa Knot

• Pros: Provides a strong hold and is relatively easy to tie.
• Cons: Slightly less secure than the Boa Knot.

Double Constrictor Knot vs. Boa Knot

• Pros: Adds an extra layer of security.
• Cons: More complex to tie compared to the Boa Knot.

History

The Boa Knot was invented by renowned weaver Peter Collingwood in 1996. His goal was to design a knot that could maintain a strong hold even when the constricted object was cut close to the knot's windings. The result filled a previously unnoticed gap in the family of binding knots, merging the strengths of the Strangle and Constrictor knots.

Security Level

The Boa Knot offers exceptional security, especially on cylindrical objects. Its tight grip ensures stability, but this also makes it extremely difficult to untie.

Downsides

• Difficult to Untie: Not suitable for situations where frequent adjustments are needed.
• Requires Convex Surface: The knot performs best when tied around convex objects.

Structure

1. Create a loop in the rope, turning it counter-clockwise.
2. Place a second loop over the first, in the same direction.
3. Twist the loops by turning the right side clockwise to form a figure-eight.
4. Insert a cylindrical object through both loops.
5. Pull the loose ends to tighten the knot securely around the object.

Pro Tip: The tighter you pull, the more secure the knot will become—perfect for high-tension applications!

FAQ

What is the Boa Knot used for?

Primarily for binding cylindrical objects securely.

How does it compare to other binding knots?

It offers a stronger hold than the Constrictor Knot or Strangle Knot, especially when the object is cut close to the knot.

Can it be untied easily?

No, it is known for being very difficult to untie.

Is it suitable for flat surfaces?

No, it holds best on convex surfaces.

Important Notes on Safety

Ensure that the Boa Knot is tied correctly and around the appropriate object type. Given its difficulty to untie, avoid using it in situations where a quick release might be necessary.