Basic Knots: The Basic Knots should be known by anyone using knots. These knots represent an essential minimum – the basis of many other knots. The section also explains the difference between some common knots: Half Hitch, Half Knot and Overhand Knot.
Fishing: The Fishing Knots are in alphabetical order. The various knots serve similar purposes but have advantages in different circumstances. Essential introductory knots might include: Blood Knot, Clinch, Double Surgeon’s Loop, and Palomar.
Boating: The Boating Knots are also listed in alphabetical order. Which ones are vital? We would love it if every person we took sailing knew how to tie a mooring line using a Round Turn & Two Half-Hitches. They often don’t! The following are also on our essential list: Bowline, Cleat Hitch, Clove Hitch, Figure 8 Knot, Rolling Hitch, Sheet Bend, and Square Knot.
Climbing: Similarly the Climbing Knots knots are also in alphabetical order. For beginners it would be a start if a student knew at least the Double Fisherman’s Knot, Figure 8 Knot, Figure 8 Double Loop, Figure 8 Follow-Through, Safety knot, and Water knot. However, serious climbers would add the Alpine Butterfly, Triple Fisherman’s, Double Overhand Stopper, Klemheist, Munter Mule, and Prusik.
In both the Boating and the Climbing sections, these knots would seem to be worth learning: they serve different functions; none of them should jam; and none should be too awkward to untie – at least when the load is off.
Arborist: The Arborist Knots were mostly based on the “Must Know” knots listed in Knots at Work by Jeff Jepson.
Scouting: The Scouting Knots and lashings are also in alphabetical order. The knots have been selected from lists published by different Scouting Organizations in various countries. They meet the published requirements for Advancement and Merit Badges – with a few additional useful knots.
Search and Rescue: The Search & Rescue Knots are also in alphabetical order. The various knots serve different purposes and were selected by consulting S&R experts.
Horse and Farm: The Horse & Farm Knots are also in alphabetical order. The various knots for Horses mostly serve as Quick Release knots.
Splicing: The Splicing Knots are grouped by type of splice. The rope material and the purpose of a splice govern its importance..
Household: The Household Knots are once again in alphabetical order. They were included on the basis of personal and practical daily activities.
Quick Release: The Quick Release Knots allow a hitch to be released just by pulling on the free end.
Decorative: The Decorative Knots knots are grouped by the objective: mats, sinnets, knots using a rope’s strands, etc.
Rope Care: The Rope Care Knots are grouped by the objective: whipping, coiling, etc.