Fast Bowline

The purpose of the bowline is to create a loop that doesn't slip. Being one of the harder knots to learn, this method may make learning it more exciting and fun because it looks smooth when tying it. This one takes a bit of practice to master, but once comfortable with it, bowlines can be tied quickly and with a fancy touch.

How to do it:

Its easiest to learn by tying the bowline around your body, but once mastered, it can be tied without being around the body. A movie is provided. The picture to the left may not be enough to learn the procedures because of all the wrist movements involved.

Step 1: Put the rope around your body and hold the short end in your right hand. You will never let go of the long side in your left hand. You will never let go of the short rope in your right hand until step 4.
Step 2: Just like the picture shows.
Step 3: Go through the loop and back up. The long rope side will wrap around your right hand.
Step 4: Release the short rope, take it around the long rope and grab it again with the same hand.
Step 5: Work your right hand out of the knot without releasing the short rope in the right hand.
Step 6: Tighten the knot by pulling the long rope in the left hand forward. Do not pull the short rope in the right hand. Just hold it still and let the left rope tighten the knot.
Step 7: The completed knot.

Note: The bowline is not a recommended knot for nylon kernmantle rope. Nylon is too slippery and the knot will slip.

(Download a mpg viewer for PC or Mac)

Bowline movie

(mpg, 148K)

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