How to Tie the Marlinspike Hitch
The Marlinspike Hitch Knot
The Marlinspike Hitch is a temporary hitch used to create a secure attachment point for a marlinspike, toggle, stick, or similar object. It has long been used in sailing, rigging, and general rope work to provide additional leverage for tightening ropes or to create a temporary handhold or foothold. Because the hitch relies on the inserted object to hold its shape, it is intended only for temporary applications while the toggle remains in place.
Other Names: Marling Spike Hitch, Rope Ladder Knot
Marlinspike Hitch Instructions
The Marlinspike Hitch is listed in The Ashley Book of Knots (ABOK #2030) and is recognized as one of the classic utility hitches. Its structure forms a loop that tightens around a marlinspike or other cylindrical object when tension is applied to the standing part of the rope. The hitch itself does not grip the object permanently but instead relies on the inserted toggle to provide a strong temporary attachment point.
But what is a Marlinspike? The marlinspike, or marlingspike, is a metal spike used in ropework by sailors. The marlinspike was used to untie knots, gain leverage, or splice rope. Sailors would work on their proficiency with the marlingspike and try to ‘master’ the craft.
Key Considerations
Proper dressing of the Marlinspike Hitch is important to ensure the toggle is inserted through the correct side of the loop and the hitch is tightened before use. The standing part should bear the load, while the working end should remain unloaded. As with all marlinspike hitches, the inserted object should be inspected to ensure it is strong enough to withstand the intended load.
Advantages & Disadvantages
One of the key advantages of the Marlinspike Hitch is its ability to create a temporary attachment point without permanently tying a knot around an object. It can be tied and removed quickly, making it especially useful for tensioning lines, hauling, climbing rope ladders, and traditional seamanship. However, because the hitch depends on the inserted toggle, it should never be used without one or relied upon as a permanent load-bearing attachment.
For permanent leverage points, see the Trucker’s Hitch; for hand/footholds, see the Alpine Butterfly or Spanish Bowline.
ABOK #2030 - The Marlingspike
Abok Numbers: Abok #7, Abok #559, Abok #1186, Abok #1789, Abok #1880, Abok #2030
The Marlingspike Hitch has numerous entries as a standalone knot in Ashley’s Book of Knots, and maybe hundreds of mentions. Almost like it was written by a sailor or something… The entries are exactly as follows:
Abok #559,
The MARLINGSPIKE HITCH is tied in the manner shown here and makes an excellent temporary stopper.
Abok #1186,
The MARLINGSPIKE HITCH is tied in the bight and is often seen on iron stakes. It may slip if the rope is slack but it is easily untied, and the pull on the ends is at opposite sides of the stake.
Abok #1789,
The MARLINGSPIKE HITCH, given by Dana in 1841, has sometimes been called, in magazine articles, “the BOAT KNOT” and is said to be used over a stake for tying up. If this spills, it becomes the ordinary NOOSE HITCH shown as #1803, a knot which is seldom allowed to approach salt water.
Abok #1880,
‘The MARLINGSPIKE HITCH “is used for the hook of a tackle, to any rope where a smart pull is required,” according to the Manual of the Sea (1891). If tied loosely, the MARLINGSPIKE HITCH will generally draw up to have a double bearing. In this form it is secure and easy to loosen.
Abok #2030,
‘The MARLINGSPIKE HITCH is always used for heavy heaving on splices, seizings and service. To tie the knot: With the marlingspike in the right hand, lay the point across the marline and with the left hand add a turn of marline around the tip. Lift the spike and place the tip to the right of the standing part and slip it under the bight.’
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.