How to Tie the Axle Hitch
The Axle Hitch
The Axle Hitch is a simple hitch used to secure a rope to an axle, spindle, or similar cylindrical object. It was traditionally associated with vehicles, carts, and mechanical equipment where a rope needed to be attached to a rotating or fixed shaft-like component. Its compact structure allows it to grip effectively around smooth cylindrical objects while remaining relatively easy to tie and release.
Axle Hitch Instructions
The Axle Hitch is listed in The Ashley Book of Knots (ABOK #162) and is recognized as a specialized hitch designed for attachment to an axle or similar object. Its structure uses wraps around the object to create friction and a secure connection, allowing the rope to hold when tension is applied. Like many traditional hitches, its effectiveness depends on proper tying and the direction of the applied load.
The axle hitch is a traditional towing knot, allowing for cylindrical roll between the hitches without creating excess friction. Tied off with a bowline, the knot is effective and strong. In modern practise, the Axle Hitch would only be used in extreme circumstances where modern methods are unavailable.
For other towing knots, see the videos below:
Key Considerations
Proper dressing of the Axle Hitch is important to ensure the wraps sit neatly around the axle and the knot tightens evenly. The rope should be arranged so the turns grip the object rather than twist or overlap unnecessarily. Before applying significant force, the hitch should be checked to confirm that it is correctly formed and secure.
Advantages & Disadvantages
One of the key advantages of the Axle Hitch is its simplicity and ability to quickly attach a rope to a cylindrical object without requiring complicated knot work. While it is less commonly encountered in modern applications due to advances in equipment and fastening methods, it remains a historically interesting hitch and an example of how traditional knot designs were adapted for everyday mechanical tasks.
Abok #162 - Axle Hitch
Abok Numbers: Abok #162, Abok #1850
This is how the Axle Hitch is described in Clifford Ashley’s Book of Knots:
Abok #162,
‘The AXLE HITCH may be used for emergency towing. The knot is a variety of backhanded hitch, which requires but one passing of the line around the axle although the knot itself is double. Having rounded the axle, the loop is pulled out until all projecting parts of the car are cleared, where the hitch is completed and the BOWLINE (*1010) added. If a MIDSHIPMAN’S HITCH (#1027) is used to complete the knot instead of the BOWLINE, the knot will be less liable to jam.’
Abok #1850,
‘Another hitch with a double bearing that requires only a single pass.’
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.