Backhand Hitch – One of The Best Securing Knots
How to Tie the Backhand Hitch
The Backhand Hitch, also known as the Backhanded Hitch, is a superb knot for securing to a tie down rail or ring. This is a little-known knot, but is a good contender for one of the best knots to add to your arsenal of knots!
I understand that the Backhand Hitch is becoming popular in many different environments due to its secure properties. The Backhand Hitch can be tied around and object, even if there is a load on the line. If the Backhand hitch is untied whilst there is still a load on the line, the load can still be controlled. As the hitch is partially undone, the load can be raised or lowered accordingly and then tied off again, with this very secure hitch.
What is the Backhand Hitch Used for?
The Backhand hitch is often used when you need to tie a hitch that has weight on the line. The Backhand hitch is easy to tie and also easy to untie even, when there is a load on the line. Whilst untying the hitch, a load can still be controlled due to the structural properties of this particular knot.
How to Tie the Backhand Hitch Video
This is the longer video on how to Tie the Backhand Hitch. If you want the less chat version, then see the next video below.
Back Hand Hitch Uses
I would say that because of the excellent security of the Backhand Hitch, it is worth learning this one and experimenting to see how it behave when it is weighted. You will be able to partially undo the hitch and then low or raise and object, then retie the Backhand Hitch, in the knowledge that your load is secure.
Backhand Hitch Video Instructions
In the video below you will learn how to tie the Backhand Hitch, there is less chat and you will also see the Backhand Hitch tied in slow motion to assist you better.
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Regarding to the backhand hitch: a really cool knot. I like to tie this with the gnat hitch instead of the two half hitches. So there is no chance of slipping or loosening…
Cheers
Michael
Can you tell me when you personally use this combination of knots? Thanks for leaving a comment.
I use it for securing hammock related stuff and ridge lines
Michael
I use and like this knot a lot. However, I’ve modified it slightly for ease of use (the half hitches are a pain to tie with a long working end and are hard to untie whilst maintaining control over the load) and to meet my use-dependent needs.
In all cases, I replace the first half hitch with a slipped half hitch (ABK-1822).
If I am using the knot to secure a heavy load that I will be lowering myself, I replace the second half hitch with a second half hitch tied with the bight/loop formed by the first.
If I’m using the knot to anchor off my safety line, I replace the second half hitch by tying on a Prusik which is also anchored. This allows me to be lowered safely in case I get jammed up.
In both cases, the long working end remains coiled on the ground/hook.
Hope you find this useful.
Cheers,
Doug D.