Figure 8 Bend

Figure 8 Bend

The figure 8 bend, also known as the Flemish bend, rewoven figure eight or a double figure eight bend, joins two ropes of roughly equal diameters together. Referred to in The Ashley Book of Knots, it is safe, easy to remember and tie. It should not be used in ropes that differ much in diameter for security reasons. For heavy loads, it is important to dress the symmetrical figure of eight bend knot correctly and leave longer tag ends.

How to Tie a Figure 8 Bend

How to Tie a Figure 8 Bend

Tips

1. On neatly dressing the knot, the two ropes remain parallel to each other at all points.
2. Though some people secure the ends with stopper knots, that is not necessary if the knot is tied, stressed and dressed properly. However, when used in critical applications, it is best secured with double overhand knots at the ends.
3. Tie it in the flat form as shown above to make minimum mistakes.

Uses

1. Mainly in climbing.
2. For rescue operations.

Steps to Tying an 8 Bend

1. Make an “8” with the blue rope
2. Introduce and pass the red rope through the blue loops
3. Continue making an “8” with the red rope next to the blue one
4. Tighten both the ropes at each side to finish the knot
5. You may trim the tag ends to keep them 3-4″ long

Similar Knots

1. Figure 8 follow through – It is a reliable way to attach the figure eight loop to a carabiner, harness or ring.
2. Figure 8 knot – The individual ropes consisting the above bend actually form a figure 8 knot tied in a reverse way to each other.