Handcuff Knot

Handcuff Knot

Handcuff Knot

The handcuff knot, also known as the hobble knot forms two loops on a length of rope secured at the center that can be used as makeshift handcuffs as pointed out in The Ashley Book of Knots. However, since it does not have any inherent locking action, it cannot be reliably used for the said restraining purpose. However, it can be locked effectively by tying a single or more overhand knots with the loose ends. It is quick, easy to tie and can be made with rope as well strings, lines, paracord or webbing.

Tutorial on Tying a Handcuff Knot

Tutorial on Tying a Handcuff Knot

Tutorial on Tying a Handcuff Knot

Tips

  1. The size of the loops can be adjusted by gently pulling them to a bigger or smaller size in step 4.
  2. The initial steps resemble the tying of a clove hitch using 2 loops.

Uses

  1. By firefighters to rescue people from narrow spaces by pulling them by the wrists. However, it is mainly avoided and used only as a last option due to the risk of harming the victim.
  2. By cowboys. Tied around the legs of cattle or horses, it would prevent them from wandering too far at night.
  3. To drag animal carcasses.
  4. To lift one up in a seated position by adjusting the sizes of the loops around the thighs thus acting as a chair.
  5. When combined with a half hitch over each double loop, effective as a man harness.
  6. By sailors and boaters in securing the oars together and lashing them to the rails of a boat.

Steps to Tying a Handcuff Knot

  1. Make 2 loops with the rope
  2. Overlap and pass each loop through the other by their opposite edges
  3. Pull the loops out up to the desired size while holding the standing parts
  4. Tighten to complete the knot

Alternative

Prusik knot – Though inferior, can be used as handcuffs.

2 responses to “Handcuff Knot”

  1. Leathon David Badillos says:

    This is a perfect for boyscout

  2. Cd says:

    It’s also perfect for bedroom activities

Leave a Reply

Most Read