Hitches
Taut-Line Hitch
Adjustable hitch, midshipman's hitch
DIFFICULTY ●●○○○
An adjustable loop that grips under tension but slides when you push it. The classic use: tent guy-lines that you can tighten as the fabric stretches overnight.
See it tied step-by-step ↗Why it earns its place
Slide it to tension, let go, and it holds — no hardware needed. Every camper should have this one in muscle memory before the first trip.
Where it fails
Slippery modern cord can defeat it; add an extra wrap or choose a different adjustable hitch on very slick line. It also loosens if the line goes fully slack and flaps.
Quick facts
| Type | Adjustable friction hitch |
| Under load | Grips when taut |
| Untying | Easy |
| Best for | Tent and tarp guy-lines |