The Overhand Knot

'Essential Knots: The Overhand' is part of the book - Trad Climbing Basics.

VDiff learn to trad climb e-book book

The overhand knot is useful for:
- Creating a master point in a cordelette or sling
- Joining ropes for abseiling (rappeling)

Overhand knot rock climbing

How to Tie the Overhand Knot

Step 1
Clip the sling to both bolts and pull the strands down so they are equal.

Tying an overhand knot rock climbing

Step 2
Pull the bottom of the sling around to form a loop.

tie slings rock climbing

Step 3
Push the end of the sling through the loop as shown.

fasten sling rock climbing

Step 4
Pull the knot tight and clip a screwgate carabiner to the central point.

Tying an overhand knot rock climbing

VDiff trad climbing book

The same technique can be used to join three or more strands of sling or cord together.

Pull each strand down evenly.

tie overhand knot

Pull the bottom of the sling around to form a loop.

tie Overhand knot rock climbing

Push the end of the sling through the loop.

Overhand knot

Pull the knot tight and clip a screwgate carabiner to the central point. You could also clip into the top shelf to free up space at the central point.

How to tie the overhand knot rock climbing

The same knot is commonly used to join ropes for abseiling.

Abseil rappel with overhand knot

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