How to Tie a Buntline Hitch

The Buntline Hitch is very useful as it simply will not come undone even when the rope moves about a great deal. It was used on square-sailed ships to secure a line to the Bunt (which is the middle part of a sail). This guide will take you step by step threw making your own buntline hitch.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Rope
• Pole

1. Take the end (working end) of the rope and pass it up through the ring from back to front.
2. Take the end of the rope behind the long standing part (this forms a half hitch). Then bring it across the front of the half-hitch.
3. Now double back on yourself and take the working end of the rope behind the half-hitch.
4. Bring the end of the rope around to the front of the knot and pass it through the half-hitch.
5. Pass it all the way through and then pull on the standing part to secure the knot.
6. To tighten the knot pull on the long standing part (the bit we didn't use) and the working end (the short bit that did all the running about).

Tips & Warnings

• This knot may be difficult to master at first. Practice tying the Buntline Hitch and you will soon be able to do it with ease.
• The Buntline Hitch Knot is more likely to jam up and be difficult to untie than two half-hitch knots.
• The Buntline hitch can also be used during rock-climbing or other physical activities which require a secure line.