How to Tie a Caver's Helical Knot

A helical knot, or ascender knot, is a friction knot used for climbing and is similar to the Prusik or friction hitch. A climber ties the knot to a rope, then suspends himself from a sling or harness attached to the knot. When weight is applied to the knot, it holds tight, but when the weight is removed, the knot slides along the rope easily.

Things You'll Need

• Climbing rope

Instructions

1. Begin by winding your line (rope) around the main line four or five times from bottom to top. Leave a long loose end.

2. Pull the loose end of the line down and around the standing end (the end that will be attached to the sling) of the line to make a simple knot.

3. Take the loose end and go around the standing end again, then thread it through the loop of the knot to form a bowline knot.

4. Take the slack out of the knot and secure the bowline with a double overhand knot.

Tips & Warnings

• Some climbers claim that the helical works best when the initial windings are performed from top to bottom.

• Always practice tying knots before you need them. You should be able to tie a good knot with your eyes closed so you can tie one on demand quickly and easily.

• Never move the helical knot from the top and never move it by gripping the knot itself because this can cause the knot to become too loose. Always slide it from the bottom.

• Any knot in a rope reduces its strength.