Hitches

Timber Hitch

DIFFICULTY ○○○○

Wrap the rope around a log, pass the end around the standing part, then twist it back around itself three or more times. Pull, and it bites into the wood.

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See it tied step-by-step ↗

Why it earns its place

Grips cylindrical objects fiercely under a steady pull, yet falls apart the moment tension is gone. The classic for dragging logs and starting diagonal lashings.

Where it fails

Only trustworthy under continuous strain in one direction. If the load bounces or the pull direction changes, add a half hitch farther down the log to steer it.

Quick facts

TypeFriction hitch
Under loadStrong pull only
UntyingFalls open when slack
Best forDragging logs and poles

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