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Reef knot

Also: Square knot

Join two ropes

Ties up a bundle or package with both ends of one cord.

Difficulty: Easy

  1. Reef knot – Step 1 of 5
    Step 1 of 5Make a bight with the left end; bring the right end up.
  2. Reef knot – Step 2 of 5
    Step 2 of 5Push the right end through the bight from behind.
  3. Reef knot – Step 3 of 5
    Step 3 of 5Lead it around behind both parts of the bight.
  4. Reef knot – Step 4 of 5
    Step 4 of 5Push it back through the bight from the front, beside its rope.
  5. Reef knot – Step 5 of 5
    Step 5 of 5Pull all four parts tight.

Pros

  • Flat, quick to tie and easy to untie.
  • Good for bundles, bags and packages.

Cons

  • Unsafe for joining two ropes: shaking can capsize it and pull it apart.
  • With ropes of different thickness or smooth rope it loosens easily.

Holding and untying

Holds only while it lies on something, like a bundle. Not suitable for joining ropes.

Suitable rope

Cord or thin rope, both ends alike.

Common mistake

Using it to join two ropes. It's unsafe for that, only for bundles and packages.

How to check it

Both ends lie on the same side, next to their own rope.

Related knots

Sheet bendDouble fisherman's knot

The most useful knots for tarp, tent and line, step by step.

Open in the knot guide in the app

In the app the knot guide also works offline.