Hitches
Buntline Hitch
DIFFICULTY ●●○○○
A clove hitch tied around the standing part, inside the loop — so tension drags the hitch down snug against whatever the rope passes through.
See it tied step-by-step ↗Why it earns its place
One of the most secure simple hitches known, proven on square-rigger buntlines that flogged in the wind for weeks. The same knot, tied in fabric, is the standard necktie knot.
Where it fails
That security has a price: it jams hard after serious load and is a poor choice where quick release matters. Use two half hitches when you will want it off.
Quick facts
| Type | Snugging hitch |
| Under load | Extremely secure |
| Untying | Jams when loaded hard |
| Best for | Halyards, shackles, flogging lines |