Timber hitch
Grips a log or pole while there's a pull, then falls apart easily. Use it to drag a log or start a diagonal lashing.
Scouts BSA, Venturing · 3 min
What it's for
A timber hitch holds tight around a log, pole, or bundle as long as the standing part is pulled, and slips off as soon as it isn't. Use it to start a diagonal lashing, to drag a log, or to hoist something round. To keep a dragged log pointing the right way, add a half hitch farther along the log toward the pull.
How to tie it
New to rope words like working end and bight? See rope words.
Step 1: Go around the log
Pass the working end around the log, bringing it back up beside the standing part.
Step 2: Around the standing part
Take the end around the standing part once, making a small loop.
Step 3: Twist it around itself
Twist the end around its own rope (the part wrapped on the log) at least three times, following the natural twist of the rope. Pull the standing part to tighten.
Check your knot
- At least three twists, so the knot grips instead of slipping.
- The twists go with the rope's own twist; going against it unravels them.
- It's meant to come off easily: when you stop pulling, a tug on the loop loosens it.
Where you'll use it
Requirements that call for this skill in 2 ranks, badges, and awards.
Keep learning
- Clove hitch, Two turns around a pole that grip each other. It starts and ends most lashings and ties a line to a post in seconds., 3 min
- Two half hitches, A quick, dependable way to tie a rope to a post, ring, or tree — and easy to untie when you're done., 3 min
- Square knot, Ties two ends of the same rope together around something — a bandage, a bundle, a bag. Flat, neat, and easy to untie., 3 min
Explanations here are ours, written to help you learn. Your unit leader or counselor decides when a requirement is complete.