How To Tie the Marlinspike Hitch
Usage
The Marlinspike Hitch give you two unique uses: The first allows you to tension a rope perfectly - similar to a friction hitch, and the second to create a handle around an object - usually a stick, pole or similar. It's a quick, temporary knot that can be easily untied, making it essential for outdoor enthusiasts and is quite famous in the sailing community.
Why Learn the Knot
The Marlinspike Hitch is adjustable, quick to tie and has various uses. Whether you're adjusting hammock lines for the perfect tension, staking out a tent, setting up a ridgeline, creating a makeshift ladder, securing gear, or need a handle on your rope - this knot gives you some of the best control and leverage in seconds.
Common Uses
- Camping and Bushcraft:
- Adjusting hammock suspension systems.
- Tightening a Ridgeline
- Creating an adjustable clothesline or tent guylines.
- Setting up makeshift ladders.
- Acts as a handle to pull or drag logs
- Scouts:
- Scouts use it to set up adjustable guylines for tents, tarps, etc.
- It’s handy for creating temporary ladders by tying the knot over poles to form rungs.
- Use it to tension lines in pioneering projects.
- Sailing and Marine:
- Used historically for splicing, seizing, or serving rope.
- Securing toggles or handles for pulling on lines.
- Household:
- Can be used when stringing together stakes in a garden
- Used as a ridgeline and guy line in a tarp setup
ABOK Number(Ashley Book of Knots)
Type
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Variations
Other Names
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Notable Features
- Often tied around a tool literally called a “marlinspike” - This has a thin cone like structure, thin on one end and thick on the other - so it can always be removed easily.
- Can be used as a makeshift handle for pulling hard on a rope.
- Can be wrapped around an object like a tree, or a tarp loop, pulled back onto itself then tied at the point you get perfect tension at.
- Temporary knot: secure when under load but quick to untie.
Similar Knots
- Constrictor Knot
- Pros: Extremely secure and provides a more permanent hold.
- Cons: Difficult to untie once tightened, often requiring cutting to release.
- Overhand Slip Knot
- Pros: Easy to tie and untie quickly.
- Cons: Less secure under heavy loads, especially if not properly tied.
- Pile Hitch
- Pros: Reliable for securing ropes around poles or cylindrical objects.
- Cons: Can slip under extreme load if not dressed properly.
- Tensioning Bowline
- Pros: Provides excellent tensioning control, easy to adjust, and can handle high loads.
- Cons: Takes more time to tie as you need to tie the bowline itself.
History
Historically used in marine settings, the Marlinspike Hitch was designed to help sailors handle ropes more effectively. The term "marlinspike" itself refers to both the tool used for this purpose and the sailors proficient with the tool. Over time, this hitch has found applications in camping and survival due to its ease of use and effectiveness.
Security Level
The Marlinspike Hitch is secure when loaded correctly but is intended as a temporary knot. It can slip or fail if improperly tied or if not kept under tension.
Downsides
This knot may loosen if not properly loaded or if left unsecured for long periods. It is best used for temporary applications and should not be relied upon in life-critical situations without proper precautions.
It also has the tendency to be hard to get undone if using a uniformly thick stick. The knot may bind up so tightly on it that the stick can't slide out with ease - that’s why people use a marlinspike tool - which is thinner on one end to slide out easily.
Structure
Step 1:
Form an Overhand Loop with the working end on top of the standing part.
Step 2:
Fold the loop up and over the standing part.
Step 3:
Slide a rod or marlinspike into the loop, over the near side and under the standing part.
Step 4:
Pull the working end to tighten the knot around the rod.
Step 5:
Use the rod as a handle to exert tension on the rope.
FAQ
What are the main uses of the Marlinspike Hitch?
This hitch is commonly used to create temporary handles for pulling on ropes, set up hammock suspension systems, and create makeshift rope ladders.
Is the Marlinspike Hitch secure?
Yes, the Marlinspike Hitch is secure when loaded properly. However, it’s intended as a temporary hitch and may slip when not under tension.
Can the Marlinspike Hitch be used in camping?
Absolutely! It’s often used to adjust tension on tent guylines, clotheslines, and hammocks.
What material can the Marlinspike Hitch be tied around?
The hitch can be tied around any cylindrical object, like sticks, rods, or even poles.
Can the Marlinspike Hitch be tied with gloves on?
Yes, it’s a simple knot that can be tied while wearing gloves, making it suitable for cold weather or marine applications.
What is the difference between the Marlinspike Hitch and a Trucker's Hitch?
The Marlinspike Hitch creates a temporary handle for tensioning, while the
Trucker's Hitch is a pulley system used for applying greater tension and securing loads.
Is a Marlinspike a Knot or a Tool?
A Marlinspike is a tool used in ropework, typically a metal spike. However, the Marlinspike Hitch is a knot, which is often tied around such a tool.
Important Notes on Safety
The Marlinspike Hitch is best used in temporary applications. Always ensure it’s properly tied, and inspect it carefully if used for weight-bearing activities like ladders or hammock suspension. Improperly tied or loaded knots may fail under pressure, leading to potential injury or damage.
