Tying it: The Mooring Hitch Knot animation shows the locking bight passing sideways under the standing end. To make it easier to tie, many descriptions show a bight of the standing end being lifted up first to make this easier.

Name: Ashley appears to have overlooked the Mooring Hitch Knot. He suggested that the name “Mooring Hitch” may have been an early name for the Rolling Hitch (ABOK # 1791, p 304) and pointed out that when snug it will not slip down the post. He actually used the name Mooring Hitch for (ABOK # 1194, p 217 ). However, later in the book this same knot appeared as the Pile Hitch (ABOK # 1815, p 306) – which name appears to have stuck.

Quick Release Hitches: Many Quick-Release Hitches have been described. We include the Tumble the Siberian (Evenk) and the Highwayman’s. Of the four, the Tumble Hitch may be the most secure.

Real Danger: Quick release hitches are dangerous for a climber rappelling down. Frightened by a sudden slip or jerk, a grab at the adjacent line can trigger a fatal fall. There are Safe Alternatives.

Not for Mooring: This so-called Mooring Hitch has been described as being tied loosely around a pole so that the loop can rise and fall with the tide. Even discounting the risk of the loop catching on oysters, barnacles, bolts, and beams, such use must be condemned because it implies protracted use of a knot that cannot be trusted and is also prone to jam.

Uses: It might be reasonable to use a Mooring Hitch Knot to briefly tie up a kayak while getting into it. However, it makes more sense to learn and use the Tumble Hitch which is more trustworthy.