BCM BASICS - KNOTS, BENDS, LINE Flashcards
Common Knots and Purposes
Square Knot (aka, Reef)
Used to adjoin two lines of EQUAL size and circumference.
Double Becket Bend
Used to adjoin two lines of UNEQUAL size and circumference.
Bowline
Used to create a temporary eye in a line.
Clove Hitch
preferred for securing a heaving line to a towline. Best-all-around knot for securing a line to a ring or spar.
Slip-Clove Hitch
Used in lieu of a Clove Hitch, temporarily secure a line around a round object such as a railing with quick release. Commonly used for stowing fenders or lines.
Cats-Paw
Used when creating a bridle to create a center connection point.
Find the centerline, grab the line with both hands, make two twists and bring the hands together.
Bonus can be adjoined with a double becket bend if nylite shackle is missing or damaged.
What is the weakest point of a line?
The Knot or Splice.
Reduces breaking strength of a line by as much as 50-60%
Which is stronger, Knot vs. Splice.
a Splice is stronger.
Treated as temporary because they decrease the strength of a line.
Knots.
Treated or preferred for a permanent function in a line and minimize strength of the line.
Splicing or Seizing.
Running End
Parts of a Line
aka Bitter End, or the free end of a line. The end that the line is worked with.
Standing Part
Parts of a Line
is the long unused end or belayed end of a line. Remaining part including the end.
Overhand Loop
Parts of a Line
loop made in a line by crossing the bitter end over the standing part.
Underhand Loop
Parts of a Line
loop made in a line by crossing bitter end under standing part.
Bight
Parts of a Line
half loop formed by turning the line back on itself (a bend in the line, looks like a horse shoe)