How to Tie Repelling Knots

Rappelling also called abseiling, is a way for climbers to make a quick descent from a slope. During rappelling climbers are relying on their gear to get them safely down to the ground, which makes it is one of the most dangerous aspects of climbing. There are a few different knots that are used regularly in rappelling, and different climbers have different preferences for what they feel is the best knot for rappelling. The Double Fisherman's Bend Knot is a rappelling knot popular with many climbers. For safety's sake, you should try to stick with one preferred rappelling knot to avoid confusing yourself when you are on a mountain.

Things You'll Need

  • 2 lengths of climbing rope
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Instructions

    • 1

      Lay your two lengths of rope on the ground with about a foot of each rope parallel to the other. Overlap the ends of the rope by placing the ends of each rope over the other rope.

    • 2

      Wrap one rope end around the other rope and circle it two full turns.

    • 3

      Pass the end of one rope through the two turns and pull it tight.

    • 4

      Repeat steps 2 and 3 using the other rope end.

    • 5

      Pull on both ropes to tighten the two knots against each other.

    • 6

      Practice tying the knot over and over again until you can tie the rope without referring to any instructions. You want to have complete confidence in your ability to tie the knot when you are ready to use it to rappel.