How to Tie BSA Knots

Knowing how to tie a knot is a fundamental part of being a Boy Scout. Knot-tying contests are a standard part of scouting events, and knowledge of knot-tying has practical applications as well. A strong understanding of proper knot-tying techniques is important for sailing, hiking, camping and other activities.

Things You'll Need

  • Rope
  • Pole
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Instructions

  1. Bowline

    • 1

      Bend the rope into a U-shape around the pole or whatever object is to be secured. Hold the two ends of rope parallel.

    • 2

      Make a loop near the middle of the piece of rope that is in your left hand.

    • 3

      Pass the piece of rope in your right hand through the loop, in under the bottom and out over the top, keeping the ropes parallel.

    • 4

      Cross the end of the rope in your right hand around the piece in your left and pass it back through the loop, in over the top and out under the bottom.

    • 5

      Pull both loose ends to tighten the knot.

    Square Knot

    • 6

      Start with a length of rope in each hand. Cross the length of rope in your right hand behind the rope in your right and wrap it around one time.

    • 7

      Face the two loose ends of rope toward each other. Cross the rope in your left hand in front of the rope in your right, and wrap it around one time.

    • 8

      Pull the two loose ends in opposite directions to tighten the knot.

    Clove Hitch

    • 9

      Hold one end of a rope in your hand. Wrap a the loose end once around a pole so that the rope crosses over itself.

    • 10

      Wrap the rope around the pole a second time, this time tucking the loose end under the loop you just created. The loose end of the rope should now be adjacent to the piece of rope in your hand, leading in the opposite direction.

    • 11

      Pull the loose end of the rope to tighten the knot.