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Sheep Shank

How to tie the Sheepshank Knot. THE SHEEPSHANK is included here as it has been in virtually every knotting work since the 1600s, but in reality it is seldom used and should be avoided. It is most commonly used to shorten a rope, but it is not a stable knot and can fall apart quickly with the interruption of tension on the knot, especially in synthetic ropes. A
damaged section of rope can be isolated using the Sheepshank, but tension must be maintained on the knot. The Alpine Butterfly Knot can be made to substitute the rope-isolation and rope-shortening duties quite well and is a knot that can be trusted.

Scroll to see Animated Sheepshank Knot below the illustration and tying instructions.

Sheep Shank

 

Sheepshank Knot Tying Instructions

  • Take up slack in rope and make underhand loops as shown at A and B.

  • Pass bight A1 through loop A, and bight B1 through loop B.

  • Pull free ends of rope in opposite directions. Maintain tension on knot.
Swiffy Output

Disclaimer: Any activity involving rope can be dangerous and may even be life threatening! Knot illustrations contained in this web site are not intended for rock climbing instruction. Many knots are not suitable for the risks involved in climbing. Where failure could cause property damage, injury, or death, seek professional instruction prior to use. Many factors affect knots including: the appropriateness of knots and rope materials used in particular applications, the age, size, and condition of ropes; and the accuracy with which these descriptions have been followed. No responsibility is accepted for incidents arising from the use of this content.