Round turn and two half hitches
Hitche · easy
Used for
- Tying a line to a piling, rail or ring when the line is already under load
- Making a line fast to a mooring ring or post
- Tying a painter or lashing to a ring or rail where you do not want it sliding along
How to tie it
- Pass the end around the post, rail or ring.
- Take it around a second time in the same direction so two turns lie side by side. These turns take the strain while you work.
- Pass the end around the standing part and tuck it back under itself to make the first half hitch.
- Make a second half hitch the same way, going around in the same direction, just beyond the first.
- Slide the two half hitches together and snug them down toward the turns.
- Leave a short tail rather than cutting it close.
Check it: The turns sit neatly around the object without crossing, and the two half hitches together look like a clove hitch tied around the standing part.
Cautions
- Make both half hitches go around the same way. If they don't form a clove-hitch shape on the standing part, retie them.
- Where the pull will be jerky or the line left a long time, tie the tail to the standing part or add another half hitch.
- On rough pilings or sharp-edged rings the turns wear; add chafe protection.
To untie: Loosen and pull out the half hitches, then unwind the turns. The turns let you ease the load off gradually, though you will feel more of it as each turn comes off.
Sources (6)
boatingcompass.org · media.defense.gov · higherlogicdownload.s3.amazonaws.com · globalsecurity.org · marines.mil · americansailing.com
General guidance for recreational boaters, researched from the sources listed and written in our own words. Your equipment manuals, local knowledge, the Navigation Rules and a qualified instructor come first.