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Backup Knot

Backup Knot Climbers often add a “backup knot” to their primary knot for additional security. The purpose of the backup knot is to avoid the primary knot from untying itself. This version is simply one side of a Double Fisherman's tied with a long tag end (fifteen to eighteen inches) of the primary knot.

Backup Knot

1. Wrap the free end twice around the standing rope and the working part of the free end, working back toward the primary knot.

2. Feed the free end back through the loops just made.

3. Pull free end to tighten backup knot down onto standing line.

See Animated Backup Knot Below

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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. Seek professional instruction. Many of these knots have histories of use tracing back hundreds of years. However, many critical factors in their use today cannot be controlled, including: the appropriateness of knots used in particular applications, the age, size, and condition of ropes (knots weaken the rated breaking strength of rope anywhere from 50% to as much as 80%, even more in the case of old and worn rope); and the accuracy with which these descriptions have been followed. No responsibility is accepted for incidents arising from the use of this material.