How to Tie a Double Pile Hitch

The Double Pile Hitch is a knot used to secure a line around a post or pile. It is commonly used to moor a boat to a pile on a dock. It is also a useful knot to use while camping, for example: to tie down a tent flap to a post. The knot can be quickly tied and holds securely, yet can easily be untied as well. The post must have a top end within reach to loop the line over, to finish the knot.Terms used: Standing part- the section or part of the line that stands still while you wrap the working part.Working part- the section or part of the line that is wrapped and intertwined to form the knot.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A rope or cord
• A post or pile with a top end within reach

How to Tie a Double Pile Hitch

1. 
   Forming a loop with the standing part on top

   Form a loop (or "bight") in the line. Make sure the standing part (which will lead back to the object that you are securing) is on the top side, as pictured. The loop will need to be long enough to wrap twice around the post or pile, and then loop over the top.

2. 
   First wrap

   Make the first wrap completely around the post, below the standing part and working end.

3. 
   Second wrap

   Make the second wrap completely around the post, below the first wrap.

4. 
   Loop slips over post or pile

   Thread the loop under the standing part and working end, then slip the loop over the post.

5. 
   Finished Double Pile Hitch

   Work the knot snug by pulling on the standing part and the working part-end at the same time, and ensure that the wraps are snug around the post or pile.