How to Tie a Binder's Knot

A binder's knot is known by several other names, including an overhand bend, an open-hand knot and a thumb knot, but they all refer to Ashleys Book of Knots No. 1410. This knot is actually a bend used to join two ends of rope together and is typically used in climbing and rappelling.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Hold a length of both ropes together and keep them parallel with each other while tying this knot. This length will determine how long the tails will be and is quite variable depending on the application.

2. Form a bight so that the working ends are on top of the standings ends. Bring the working ends through the loop just made from below.

3. Dress the binder's knot by ensuring the ropes do not twist around each other. Hold the working ends of both ropes in one hand and both standing ends in the other hand while pulling with both hands at the same time.

4. Tie two ropes together with different diameters or flexibility with the binder's knot. The thinner or more flexible rope should be below the other rope when making the overhand loop.

5. Make an overhand knot that is snug to itself in one of the ropes as a safety stopper. Use the thinner line if there is a difference.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the binder's knot in rappelling primarily for rope retrieval. It slides over rocky surfaces more easily than other knots because it is small and does not lie in line with the rope.