The only 7 knots you will ever need

There are hundreds of knots, but only a few cover almost all practical situations. This list gives you the essentials: secure loops, tensioning lines, joining ropes, and binding objects.

1. Bowline – Fixed loop at the rope’s end

Used when you need a permanent loop that will not slip. Strong, stable, and easy to untie even after load.

2. Alpine Butterfly – Mid-line loop

Creates a secure loop in the middle of a rope. Useful for attaching a second line, isolating damaged sections, or hanging a rope over a branch.

3. Taut-Line Hitch – Adjustable loop under tension

Best for guy lines on tents or tarps. The loop can slide to adjust length but holds firm when pulled.

4. Trucker’s Hitch – High-tension tie-down

Creates a pulley effect for maximum tension. Standard choice for securing loads to vehicles or tightening tarps.

5. Zeppelin Bend – Joining ropes of equal size

A strong, stable bend that will not jam. Reliable when you need to extend a rope with another of the same thickness.

6. Sheet Bend – Joining ropes of different size

Handles ropes of unequal thickness or stiffness. A double sheet bend adds extra security.

7. Constrictor Hitch – Binding objects

Locks tightly around posts, poles, or bundles. Difficult to untie, making it effective for binding or cinching materials.