Hitches

Highwayman's Hitch

Draw hitch
DIFFICULTY ●●●○○

A quick-release hitch built from three stacked bights: it holds a moderate pull on the standing end, but one tug on the tail and the whole knot spills off the rail instantly.

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See it tied step-by-step ↗

Why it earns its place

The party trick that's genuinely useful: temporarily tether a boat, a horse in legend, or anything you'll want free in a hurry, without reaching the rail again.

Where it fails

A trick knot at heart — it can spill from the wrong tug or a shake, so never use it for loads that matter. It's for convenience, not security.

Quick facts

TypeQuick-release hitch
Under loadLight duty only
UntyingOne pull, instant
Best forTemporary tethers

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