How to Tie the Midshipman's Hitch Knot
The Midshipman's Hitch
The Midshipman’s Hitch is an adjustable friction hitch used to create a loop that can slide along a rope when unloaded but grips securely when tension is applied. It has long been used in sailing, camping, and general rope work for tensioning guy lines, securing loads, and making adjustable attachments. Because it can be easily repositioned while maintaining a firm hold under load, it is one of the most practical adjustable hitches.
Midshipman's Hitch Instructions
The Midshipman’s Hitch is listed in The Ashley Book of Knots (ABOK #1855) and is recognized as a classic adjustable hitch. Its structure consists of a series of friction wraps around the standing part of the rope followed by a locking half hitch, allowing the knot to slide when slack but hold fast when tension is applied. It is closely related to the Taut-Line Hitch, with many modern references considering the two knots to be closely connected or variations of one another.
Depending on the application, both knots could be used synonymously. Camping, we generally prefer the Taut-Line Hitch because the wraps look nice in series and the hitch performs as it’s supposed to with no worries. However, it is generally accepeted that the Midshipman’s Hitch is superior because of the crossed hitches.
Key Considerations
Proper dressing of the Midshipman’s Hitch is important to ensure the friction wraps are neatly aligned and the locking hitch is correctly positioned (otherwise you will end up with the Taut-Line Hitch). The coils should be tightened evenly so the knot grips the standing part securely without binding unnecessarily. As with all friction hitches, it should be tested after tying to confirm it slides smoothly when unloaded and locks reliably under tension.
Advantages & Disadvantages
One of the key advantages of the Midshipman’s Hitch is its ability to provide a strong, adjustable attachment without requiring hardware or additional equipment. It can be repositioned quickly to tension ropes, guy lines, and tarps while remaining secure once loaded. Its simplicity, versatility, and dependable gripping action have made it a long-standing favourite among sailors, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
ABOK #1855 - Midshipmans Hitch
Abok Numbers: Abok #62, Abok #431, Abok #1027, Abok #1728, Abok #1729, Abok #1799, Abok #1855, Abok #1993
The Midshipmans Hitch has so many entries in Ashley’s Book of Knots, not to mention the comparisons and alterations which are not included here (note abok #62 has no entry & 1728-29 are joined). The 6 entries are as follows:
Abok #431,
‘An ADJUSTABLE HITCH (#1799) on a tent rope is about as easy to manipulate as a mechanical stake fastening and makes one thing less to carry on a camping trip. It is the same as a MIDSHIPMAN’S HITCH.’
Abok #1027,
‘The MIDSHIPMAN’S HITCH, seized or stopped, is another and semipermanent loop, one of the strongest.’
Abok #1728, #1729,
‘The MIDSHIPMAN’S HITCH bears the same relation to the ROLLING HITCH (#1735) that Two HALF HITCHES (#1710) bears to the CLOVE HITCH (#1178). That is to say, the knot is made fast around its own standing part, while in the ROLLING HITCH it is made fast around another object.’
Abok #1799,
‘The MIDSHIPMAN’s HITCH is the same as the foregoing with the addition of a HALF HITCH. It is a fixed knot that holds well and has a variety of uses.’
Abok #1855,
‘The MIDSHIPMAN’S HITCH is the same as the last knot with the end half hitched or else dogged and seized. This is an exceptionally practical knot much used about ship. Properly tied, it does not slip or jam.’
Abok #1993,
‘The MIDSHIPMAN’S HITCH. When you have fallen overboard, which happens to us all, sooner or later, grab the end of the line that is tossed you, pass it quickly either through your legs or under your seat, make a HALF HITCH around the standing part with the end, then jam a second turn on top of the HALF HITCH. If no more time is available, hold the end tightly grasped to the standing part. If you still have opportunity make a HALF HITCH above the structure that is already tied. Either way, you are now quite ready to be rescued.’
Disclaimer
The information on this website is provided for educational and informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, knot strength, security, and suitability can vary depending on rope type, condition, load, environmental factors, and how the knot is tied. Users are responsible for inspecting their equipment and verifying that a knot is appropriate for their intended use. Do not rely solely on the information provided here for activities involving personal safety, life support, climbing, rescue operations, heavy lifting, or other high-risk applications.
SCB Media Group assumes no responsibility or liability for any injury, loss, damage, or consequences resulting from the use or misuse of the knots and techniques described. Always seek professional instruction and follow applicable safety standards where appropriate.