A slippery hitch is a knot used to attach a line to a rod or bar.[1] It does not provide great strength compared to some other knots, but it can be tied relatively quickly and released very easily.[2] These characteristics mean that it is used on square-rigged ships for securing the gaskets that bind stowed sails to the yards.
| Slippery hitch | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Category | Hitch |
| Related | clove hitch |
| Typical use | To attach a line to a rod or bar. |
The slippery hitch is effectively a clove hitch finished with a slipped loop. To tie one, begin as for a clove hitch, but instead of passing the end of the line through the loop in the final step, pass a bight instead, leaving the end on the original side. Pulling on this end will release the hitch. If tied in a gasket, this will quickly release the sail.
See also
editReferences
edit- ^ McEwen, T. (2006). Boater's Pocket Reference: Your Comprehensive Resource for Boats and Boating. Anchor Cove Pub. p. 387. ISBN 978-0-9774052-0-6. Retrieved 14 November 2024.
- ^ Cruising World. p. 2-PA128. ISSN 0098-3519. Retrieved 14 November 2024.