How to Tie the Stevedore Stopper Knot

Usage

The Stevedore Stopper Knot excels in situations requiring a secure and bulky knot at the end of a rope. Its design prevents ropes from unreeving through openings, making it indispensable for boating, camping, and outdoor tasks. Whether securing a tarp, mooring a boat, or preparing for outdoor projects, this knot combines reliability with ease of tying and untying, even after heavy loads.

Why Learn the Stevedore Stopper Knot?

Learning the Stevedore Stopper Knot equips you with a dependable stopper that is secure yet easy to untie. Whether you’re securing a tarp, mooring a boat, or preparing for outdoor adventures, this knot’s versatility and reliability make it an essential skill.

Common Uses

• Boating and Marine Applications:
  • Preventing ropes from slipping through block-and-tackle systems.
  • Securing lines for mooring or docking.
• Camping: Setting up tarps by securing grommets with bulky stopper knots.
• Scouting and Outdoor Projects: Adding bulk to rope ends for secure anchoring or utility tasks.

ABOK Number  (Ashley Book of Knots)  #456   Other Names Double Figure Eight   Type Stopper Knot

Notable Features

• Secure and Bulky: Prevents ropes from slipping through narrow openings.
• Non-Jamming: Easy to untie, even after heavy loads.
• Customizable Size: Adds weight and bulk to the rope’s end.

Variations

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Similar Knots

Overhand Stopper Knot vs. Stevedore Stopper Knot

• Pros: Simpler and quicker to tie.
• Cons: Less bulky and secure.

Figure 8 Stopper Knot vs. Stevedore Stopper Knot

• Pros: Easier to tie and commonly used.
• Cons: Less secure and more prone to slipping.

Double Overhand Stopper Knot vs. Stevedore Stopper Knot

• Pros: More secure under cyclical loads.
• Cons: Slightly harder to untie after heavy loads.

History

The Stevedore Stopper Knot originated in maritime operations, where stevedores (dock workers) used it to prevent ropes from unreeving through large cargo blocks. Its structure is an evolution of the Figure 8 Knot, featuring an additional wrap for increased bulk and security. Described in The Ashley Book of Knots (#456), it remains a staple for applications requiring a robust stopper knot.

Security Level

The Stevedore Stopper Knot is highly secure and resists slipping even under heavy loads. It is less prone to jamming than the Figure 8 Knot and can be untied with relative ease. However, it may loosen under cyclical loads, so proper inspection is necessary for critical applications.

Downsides

• Can Loosen: Under repeated cyclic loading.
• Bulkier: Than simpler stopper knots, which may limit its use in tight spaces.

Structure

1. Form a bight near the rope’s end.
2. Pass the working end around the standing line, making a complete turn.
3. Add an additional turn around the standing line, ensuring both turns are neat and parallel.
4. Pass the working end through the bight and tighten by pulling both ends.

Pro Tip: Always leave a sufficient tail to account for potential slippage under load.

FAQ

What is the Stevedore Stopper Knot used for?

It prevents ropes from slipping through openings or hardware, making it ideal for maritime and utility tasks.

Is the Stevedore Stopper Knot easy to untie?

Yes, it is designed to be non-jamming and easy to untie, even after heavy loads.

How does it compare to the Figure 8 Stopper Knot?

The Stevedore Stopper Knot is bulkier and more secure than the Figure 8 Stopper Knot.

Can it be used with synthetic ropes?

Yes, it works well with synthetic ropes, but always inspect for slippage under dynamic conditions.

Important Notes on Safety

The Stevedore Stopper Knot is a robust and reliable option for most applications, but it should be inspected regularly when used under cyclic or dynamic loads. Always ensure it is properly tied and tightened for optimal performance.