April 2012

Mastering marlinespike

Japanese bowline

Primarily a decorative knot, the Japanese bowline forms two adjustable loops. When the load is equally distributed between both loops opposing the two supporting strands, reducing the load on one loop will cause slipping, which can be useful.

A. Start with a pretzel configuration of loops. Then, cross the working part under the two loops.

B. Cross the bitter end to the opposite side as shown.

C. Using two fingers on one hand, one through each loop, pull on the working part and bitter end at the same time.

D. The finished Japanese bowline when correctly tied.

Original materials used with thanks to Irene Rodriguez and John Bennett

   Tweet