Learning how to tie knots is one of the most essential, yet overlooked skills you could learn as an outdoor enthusiast. At the top of the knot list is the bowline. Often referred to as the worlds most useful knot - and known as the king of knots for that reason. The bowline is celebrated for its versatility and ease of untying, even under tension. Its flexibility and reliability make it a staple knot for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Why a Bowline Knot?
The bowline knot is incredibly versatile, serving various purposes. Whether you need to string a ridgeline or create a loop at the end of your rope, it's a reliable choice. Plus, its simplicity allows for quick tying and untying, making it convenient for outdoor activities. It's easily recognizable, so others can see what it is and understand how to undo it if need be.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Tie a Bowline Knot
Step 1:
Get your rope and wrap it around a tree or a pole. Now we're going to imagine turning the keys to a car, a counter-clockwise or "ignition off" loop.
You perform this loop on the standing end- which is the longer end of your rope.
Step 2:
Now take the free end of the rope and slip it upward through the loop.
Theres a common mnemonic to remember this: The Rabbit Runs UP out of its hole.
Step 3:
Wrap the free end around the back of the standing line and slip it back into the loop again.
Mnemonic : Runs around the tree.
Step 4:
Thread the tag end back down through the hole.
Mnemonic : And runs back DOWN into it's hole.
Double Check:
You should have the tag end inside the loop
And a definitive "U" Shape.
Common Issues: Accidentally Wrapped Around the Wrong Line
There are instances where you could end up wrapping the wrong line. The knot itself looks the same, but it's wrapped around the loop end and not the tension end where it's supposed to be. Don't fret! You've actually tied the anti-bowline knot. It's just as strong as the bowline and arguably more secure than the original. It just is slightly uncommon and may bind up a bit more.
See this example of the Anti-Bowline on the left, and Correct Bowline on the right.
How To Tie an OPEN LOOP Bowline
Lets take a look at how to tie an open loop bowline; for example if you have the line end coming toward you, as if you were tying it around yourself.
When we flip it this way, its generally really confusing to people. But I've found theres a decently easy way to remember it.
I remember to use the ON or OFF based on this thought "A Car cant drive straight into a tree, so we use ignition OFF. But if theres an open space, we can drive there, so use ignition ON.
Step 1:
Initially, we had a tree or a column in front of us as a point of reference, so we practiced by turning the car keys into the OFF position.
Step 2:
Perform the Ignition ON loop on the standing line.
Step 3:
Grab the free end and slip it up through the loop.
Mnemonic to remember this: The Rabbit Runs UP out of its hole..
Step 4:
With your right hand, place the free edge at the back of the standing line and wrap it around the rope.
Mnemonic : Runs around the tree
Step 5:
Slip the free edge back down into the loop. Pull the edge and the line outward to form the bowline.
Mnemonic : And runs back DOWN into it's hole.
Unique Practical Applications of the Bowline
1. Connecting Two Ropes Together with the Bowline
Find another rope and you can use the bowline to connect the two lengths together. Start by tying a whole bowline. Slip the free edge of another length of rope to your original one and tie another bowline to secure them together.
Other ways to tie two ropes together, use the sheet bend or the more secure Double Fisherman's Bend. Which I have video tutorials on as well.
2. Creating and Adjustable Tension Bowline
Combine the bowline with a marlinspike. Simply wrap your bowline around a tree and pull the standing or loose end through the loop. Now you can place a stick into wherever you want your line to tighten and hold firm. This is called a marlinspike and it will lock it completely in place. Want to adjust the length? Just slide the marlinspike along the rope or take the stick out and readjust.
The Bowline is featured in my Knot Tying Reference Cards. The Kit comes with two lengths of rope with contrasting colors for you to practice on, credit card-sized knot tying guide, and aluminum Bushcraft tin. You can also order it on Amazon USA here: Knot Tying Kit
