How To Tie the Shear Lashing
Usage
The Shear Lashing is a fundamental lashing used to bind two poles together at their top ends, allowing them to function as spread out legs - generally as support for larger structures. It’s commonly used in camping, bushcraft, and scouts to build tripods, A-frames, or to reinforce weak or broken poles.
Why Learn the Shear Lashing?
Lashings in general are useful for building shelters, structures, and improvising field repairs and fixes. The Shear Lashing in particular is one of the more important lashings to understand, as it’s the way to join two poles together securely.
Common Uses
- Camping and Bushcraft:
- Build a shelter by lashing together branches or poles.
- Create a tripod to hang gear or support a cooking pot over a fire.
- Make primitive camp furniture like A-frames for gear racks.
- Repairing broken gear
- Search and Rescue:
- Construct a makeshift stretcher by binding poles together to carry an injured person.
- Pioneering and Scouts:
- Create aerial bridges by connecting multiple sets of shear legs.
- Build towers or temporary camp structures using shear legs as a base.
- Other Outdoor Applications:
- Lash poles to build rafts or reinforce damaged equipment.
ABOK Number(Ashley Book of Knots)
Type
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Variations
Other Names
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Notable Features
- Pivot Point: The Shear Lashing allows the poles to pivot, making it ideal for creating A-frame structures and tripods.
- Easy to Untie: The knot is secure but can be untied relatively easily, even after bearing load.
- Flexible: The lashing provides both strength and flexibility, allowing for quick adjustments in the field.
- Reliable: When properly tied with frapping turns, the lashing is strong enough to support considerable weight, but the tension must be maintained for maximum stability.
Similar Knots
- Square Lashing
- Pros: Excellent for binding poles at 90-degree angles, providing a rigid connection.
- Cons: Does not offer the flexibility or pivoting ability of the Shear Lashing.
- Diagonal Lashing
- Pros: Strong for awkward angles and creates a firm connection for poles that cross at irregular angles.
- Cons: More time-consuming to tie than Shear Lashing.
- Round Lashing
- Pros: Similar to Shear Lashing, but only used to tie poles side-by-side.
- Cons: Lacks the pivoting feature of Shear Lashing.
- Tripod Lashing
- Pros: Ideal for creating tripods, providing a stable base for holding equipment or gear.
- Cons: Requires an extra pole and more time to tie compared to Shear Lashing.
Negatives
- Time-Consuming: It requires multiple wraps and frapping turns to secure properly, which can take time.
- Possible Loosening: Over time, exposure to weather or heavy use may cause the lashing to loosen, requiring retightening.
- Requires Proper Technique: The lashing needs to be tied correctly, with sufficient frapping turns to ensure stability.
Structure
Step 1:
Begin by laying two poles side by side or at the desired angle.
Step 2:
Tie a Clove Hitch around one of the poles to secure the rope.
Step 3:
Begin wrapping the rope tightly around both poles, making 6-8 complete wraps.
Step 4:
Make 2-3 frapping turns between the poles, pulling them tight to secure the lashing.
Step 5:
Finish by tying another Clove Hitch around one of the poles to complete the lashing.
Step 6:
Spread the legs of the poles to create an A-frame or tripod structure.
FAQ
What is the Shear Lashing used for?
It’s used to tie two poles together, creating shear legs for structures like tripods or A-frames.
Is Shear Lashing strong enough for load-bearing applications?
Yes, when tied correctly, the Shear Lashing is strong and can support considerable weight. Frapping turns add extra security.
Can Shear Lashing be used for building camp shelters?
Absolutely! Shear Lashing is commonly used to create the framework for shelters, especially when poles need to pivot or spread apart.
How does Shear Lashing differ from Tripod Lashing?
Shear Lashing is used to bind two poles, allowing for a pivot point, whereas Tripod Lashing is used to tie three poles together to form a tripod.
What is the best rope to use for Shear Lashing?
Non-stretchy ropes like natural fiber ropes (manila, sisal) or synthetic ropes like non- stretch polyester paracord (like Bear Essentials Bushcraft Paracord) work well for Shear Lashing.
Important Notes on Safety
Ensure the Shear Lashing is pulled tightly and frapped securely. If the lashing loosens over time, it may need to be re-tensioned to maintain stability. It’s not recommended for life-critical applications unless properly tied and tested.
