Buzz
The constrictor knot is straightforward, adaptable, and particularly effective for securing items in place. This knot possesses the capability to cinch itself tightly around an object without loosening. There exist numerous variations on how to fashion a constrictor knot - the standard method involves wrapping rope around an object and crossing the two rope ends in a manner that cinches the knot closed. A direct variation on this method is the double constrictor knot, which loops around the object an additional time to secure the object even more tightly. A constrictor knot can also be tied by adapting a clove hitch, another simple knot. Finally, this multipurpose knot can be tied in the bight (a loose loop, curve, or semi-circle in the rope) without using the rope ends.
Instructions
Tying a Standard Constrictor Knot
Overlap the rope ends. Wrap a rope around the back of the object you intend to knot. Draw each end of the rope towards the center. Cross the right-hand end of the rope over the left-hand end.
Wrap the rope around once more. Keep the end of the rope that is underneath pulled taut. Using your other hand, draw the end of the rope that is overhand behind the object. Guide it around to the opposite side to meet the opposite end of the rope.
- Vary this technique by attempting a double constrictor knot: instead of looping the rope around once more here, do it twice.
Secure the knot tightly. Pass the overhand side of the rope beneath the opposite end of the rope, between the object and the rope. Thread it beneath the 'X' formed by the crossed rope in the middle. Pull it through to the other side. Pull both ends to cinch it tightly.
Hands-On Technique
Grasp the rope. Grip the rope with your left hand (or right hand, if you're left-handed), draped over your four fingers. Brace the rope between your thumb and index finger. Let your other three fingers curl loosely to hold the rope.
Form a loop. Grab the rope further down, or near the end, with your right hand, bracing it between your index finger and thumb. Bring your hand around to touch thumbs, forming a loop. Release the rope from the right hand, keeping it secured between the left thumb and index finger. The other three fingers on your left hand should still be gripping the rope, through the middle of the loop.
Form an 8 shape. Lower the right thumb and index finger to grasp another section of the rope within the loop. Twist the rope forward, shaping it into an 8. Bring the side of the 8 shape held by the right hand over to the other side, looping it over the end of the rope.
Seal and cinch the knot. Cross the right hand over the left thumb, sealing the constrictor knot. Pull the end of the rope still held by the last two fingers of your right hand. Cinch the knot tightly.
Adapting a Clove Hitch
Fashion a clove hitch knot. Begin this approach to tying a constrictor knot by fashioning a clove hitch. Create two loops in a rope; twist the left loop above the rest of the rope, and the right loop below. Position the right loop over the left loop, then insert a pole or stick through the loops. Pull the rope ends to tighten your clove knot.
Insert the working end. Grasp the working end of the rope (i.e., the end of the rope on the right-hand side, if you're right-handed). Pull the rope over and into the upper loop of the knot. Draw the rope back through to the right side.
Secure the knot tightly. Grasp each end of the rope, bracing them with your index fingers and thumbs. Pull the rope firmly on both sides. Your clove hitch knot is now transformed into a constrictor knot.
Creating a Constrictor Knot Without Using Rope Ends
Create a broad loop in the rope. Grip a bight in the rope. Pinch it together at the base, approximately 10 inches down. Twist the rope where your fingers converge to form a loop.
Twist and fold. Fold the lower part of the loop downward over the top of the knot. Twist the center, creating two loops. Hold them securely together.
Tighten the knot. Thread the object through the loops, or slide the loops over an object. Pull firmly on both ends. Secure the knot.
Completed.
Pointers
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There's a strong possibility you won't be able to untie this knot, so be ready to cut the rope if necessary.
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The type of rope you select impacts the knot's ability to constrict. When tying the knot to a solid object, opt for a stretchy rope to achieve the constricting effect.
