What is the Tensionless Hitch used for?

Anchoring ropes in vertical rescue operations and work at height; Setting up anchor points on sturdy trees or wide posts; Preserving full rope strength in high-load systems; Serving as a main or backup anchor in rappelling and hoisting; Making it easier to adjust and release the rope without relying on a locked knot.

How do you tie the Tensionless Hitch?

The Tensionless Hitch is an anchoring technique used in rescue work that preserves nearly all of the rope's strength. Instead of tying a tight knot (which weakens the rope), you take several turns around a wide fixed point and let friction hold the load. It's one of the strongest and safest anchors used by rescue teams and workers at height. Follow the illustrated step-by-step, with a photo for every stage, on Desbravai.

Is the Tensionless Hitch hard to tie?

The Tensionless Hitch is rated easy, in the Rescue category and is taught with a photo at every stage on Desbravai.

What precautions apply when using the Tensionless Hitch?

The anchor point needs an adequate diameter (at least about 4x the rope's diameter is recommended) for friction to work; Take enough turns (usually 3 to 5 or more) before closing the carabiner; Check that the anchor surface has no sharp edges; Don't improvise in life-threatening situations without formal rescue training.

Tensionless Hitch

Q: What other names does the Tensionless Hitch have?

It is also known as Tensionless Hitch, No-Load Anchor, High Strength Tie-Off, Nudo sin tensión, Anclaje sin tensión, Ancoragem sem tensão, Volta sem carga.

A rescue anchor that preserves nearly all of the rope's strength by wrapping turns around a fixed point

Also called: Tensionless Hitch, No-Load Anchor, High Strength Tie-Off, Nudo sin tensión, Anclaje sin tensión, Ancoragem sem tensão, Volta sem carga

What it is for

Anchoring ropes in vertical rescue operations and work at height
Setting up anchor points on sturdy trees or wide posts
Preserving full rope strength in high-load systems
Serving as a main or backup anchor in rappelling and hoisting
Making it easier to adjust and release the rope without relying on a locked knot