In this post, you’re going to learn how to tie the trucker’s hitch knot. It’s one of the more important survival knots that you could learn, especially for mountaineers and climbers.
Over the years, the practice of learning how to tie knots has evolved appropriately and has led to the development of a number of compound knots that are very suitable for specific survival needs.
The trucker’s hitch knot is one such compound knot that is used extensively to secure heavy loads, especially in trucks and trailers.
In this article, we discuss what exactly is the trucker’s hitch knot, its various uses and finally how you can tie this knot.
What is the Trucker’s Hitch Knot
First, let’s cover what this knot is.
As mentioned, the trucker’s hitch knot is a compound knot, meaning that it is a combination of simpler loops and turns which results in a rudimentary block and tackle. A block and tackle is a system of two or more connected pulleys, with a rope passing through them. Its main purpose is to lift heavy loads.
The trucker’s hitch knot is primarily used to secure heavy loads or cargo to trucks. It is easy to tie and untie and can be tightened as needed.
The earliest usage of this type of knot can be traced back to the days when horse-drawn carriages and buggies were used to transport wares and goods over long distances.
Later, several variants of the original trucker’s hitch knot came into existence. Basically, by changing the method of looping the working end in the trucker’s hitch, you can give rise to a number of variations of different mechanical strengths. Below, we discuss the basic trucker’s hitch.
Uses
As the name suggests, this knot is used by truckers to secure down heavy loads.
1) Move Heavy Cargo
It’s perfect for cinching heavy cargo or tying down a tarp using a long length of rope or cord. However, care should be taken while tying a tarp as excessive tension can tear the material.
2) Secure Your Kayaks
You can also use this knot to secure your kayaks, canoes or surfboard on the top of your car or for tying something at your campsite. Additionally, it is the perfect knot for hanging your hammock the next time you go camping. In fact, this is a very useful knot to know if you are a regular camper.
3) Climb Higher
This knot is one of the more common knots used by mountain climbers. If you’re considering taking up Mountain climbing so you can free solo like Alex Honnold, learn how to tie this knot. Also, check out our book review of The Impossible Climb.
How To Tie
- Take your rope or cord and form a loop in it.
- Pass the rope through the loop.
- Hold and pull the loop down to secure it in place.
- Now take the working end of the rope and pass it through a carabiner. You can also use a cylindrical post like a tree trunk instead of a carabiner. In that case, pass the working end around the cylindrical object.
- Now pass the working end through the loop formed in step number 3.
- Wrap the working end around the standing part.
- Pass it through the loop and wrap it once more.
- Pull to tighten the trucker’s hitch knot.
- To make it extra secure, you can add one or two half hitch knots at the end.
Further Information on The Truckers Hitch:
Conclusion
Now you know one of the best knots to learn and use.
We hope this article on how to tie a truckers hitch knot helped you.
If you liked this post, check out how to tie a timber hitch knot and also check out the ultimate guide of paracord knots so you can learn more knots to your knowledge base.
