5 steps
Reef Knot
A square knot. Two overhands of opposite sense. Only for binding a bundle, such as a rolled tarp. It spills if used as a bend between two loaded ropes.
Use it for
A square knot. Two overhands of opposite sense. Only for binding a bundle, such as a rolled tarp. It spills if used as a bend between two loaded ropes.
This line
Never reef-knot braid to mono.
Avoid when
Any line that will be pulled from both ends. Use a sheet bend, a zeppelin bend, or for fishing line a blood knot.
All steps visible
Reef Knot
Step 1
Cross the two ends, left over right.
Step 2
Tuck and pull.
Step 3
Cross again, right over left.
Step 4
Tuck the end through.
Step 5
Dress it square. Use it only to bind.
The drawing follows this tying order. Pause, step, or scrub to stay with the words. The standing line runs to the reel. The tag is the short end you trim. Skin-hook means the point lies flat in the plastic, not out where grass can grab it.
Common mistakes
- Two overhands of the same sense, which is a granny and will slip.
- Using it to join an anchor rode.