What is the Bowline used for?

Making a fixed loop to pass through rings, hooks, or masts; Tying around the body or waist in rescue situations; Securing a rope to a post or tree with a loop that won't strangle; Hoisting or lowering objects safely; Joining two ropes by linking a bowline in each; Attaching sheets and lines to sails on small boats.

How do you tie the Bowline?

The Bowline is the famous "king of knots": it forms a fixed loop at the end of the rope that neither slips nor tightens, even under heavy tension. It's considered one of the most important knots in sailing and one of the most valuable in rescue work, because it holds firm and yet unties easily afterward. Follow the illustrated step-by-step, with a photo for every stage, on Desbravai.

Is the Bowline hard to tie?

The Bowline is rated medium, in the Loops category and is taught with a photo at every stage on Desbravai.

What precautions apply when using the Bowline?

Under cyclic loading or shaking it can loosen — in climbing, add a stopper knot on the tail end; It isn't ideal for loads that rotate or change abruptly; Always check the finished shape of the knot: tied wrong, it comes apart.

Bowline

Q: What other names does the Bowline have?

It is also known as Bowline, Bowline Knot, As de guía, Nudo as de guía, Laço de Guia, Gaza de laço fixo, Nœud de chaise, King of knots. (ABOK #1010)

Forms a fixed loop that neither slips nor tightens, ideal for rescue and tying around the body

Also called: Bowline, Bowline Knot, As de guía, Nudo as de guía, Laço de Guia, Gaza de laço fixo, Nœud de chaise, King of knots · ABOK #1010

What it is for

Making a fixed loop to pass through rings, hooks, or masts
Tying around the body or waist in rescue situations
Securing a rope to a post or tree with a loop that won't strangle
Hoisting or lowering objects safely
Joining two ropes by linking a bowline in each
Attaching sheets and lines to sails on small boats