Prusik Hitch
Use the Prusik Hitch to secure a loop to a tight line. It slides when not weighted along a tight rope but jams solidly upon loading. Mountaineers use this knot to form footholds to help them climb a vertical rope and also for belay systems. Many climbers believe that the Prusik Knot has more "give" resulting in a reduced force applied to the system in the case of a shock load (a fall), as opposed to a similar purpose knot such as the Klemheist.
Because the knot is tied in smaller diameter cordage a little give or slippage in the knot may be better than a knot that holds tighter, which in the case of a belay system taking a shock load might increase your chance of a catastrophic-system-failure. The loop needs to be made in rope or cord that is at most half the diameter of the main line. It is often made by tying the ends of cord with a Double Fisherman's Knot.
Scroll down to see the Animated Prusik Knot.
Prusik Hitch Knot Tying Instructions
- Make a sling of cordage (no more than 1/2 the diameter of main rope).
- Tie a Girth Hitch around the main rope.
- Pass the loop of the sling back through the center of the Girth Hitch three or four more times.
- Load with weight to make sure it
