How to Tie the Round Turn and Two Half Hitches
The Round Turn and Two Half Hitches
The Round Turn and Two Half Hitches is a versatile and dependable hitch used to secure a rope to a post, ring, pole, or other fixed object. It is valued for its strength, simplicity, and ability to hold securely under steady tension while remaining relatively easy to untie after use. Because of its reliability, it is one of the most widely used hitches in sailing, camping, towing, mooring, and general rope work.
Round Turn and Two Half Hitches Instructions
The Round Turn and Two Half Hitches is listed in The Ashley Book of Knots (ABOK #1720) and is recognized as one of the classic securing hitches. Its structure begins with a round turn around the attachment point, which provides additional friction and reduces strain on the rope before the two half hitches knot is added. The finishing hitches lock the rope in place, creating a secure connection that performs well under continuous tension.
Key Considerations
Proper dressing of the Round Turn and Two Half Hitches is important to ensure the round turn sits neatly around the object and the two half hitches are formed correctly along the standing part. The wraps should be snug and evenly arranged so the load is distributed smoothly through the rope. Careful tying helps maximize security and reduces the chance of the hitch loosening during use.
Advantages & Disadvantages
One of the key advantages of the Round Turn and Two Half Hitches is its combination of strength, ease of tying, and versatility. It can be tied quickly, adjusted when necessary, and untied without excessive difficulty after being loaded. These qualities have made it a trusted hitch for generations of sailors, campers, and rope users who need a reliable method of securing a rope to a fixed object.
ABOK #1720 - Round Turn & Two Half Hitches
ABOK Numbers: Abok #1720, Abok #1784, Abok #1835, Abok #1883, Abok #1910
The Round Turn and Two Half Hitches is featured an awfully lot in Ashley’s Book of Knots. Clifford touches on the hitch in several different aspects. Exact entries are as follows:
Abok #1720,
‘The Round Turn and Two Half Hitches is named by Steel in 1794. If a spar is small a round turn is preferable to a single turn. It makes a stronger knot and dissipates the wear.’
Abok #1784,
‘The Round Turn and Two Half Hitches is mentioned by Steel in 1794. It should be used when the object to be tied to is of small diameter, since the second turn dissipates the wear. The hitch is seized often but not invariably.’
Abok #1835,
‘A Round Turn and Two Half Hitches is given by both Biddlecomb and Luce as an Anchor Bend. Although often used without stopping, it is better to add one as it prevents jamming.’
Abok #1883,
‘A Round Turn and Two Half Hitches. Any Hook Hitch with a double bearing is stronger than one that passes through the hook but once.’
Abok #1910,
‘A Round Turn and Two Half Hitches is a strong hitch that is to be recommended where there is a considerable discrepancy between the size of the line and the becket.’
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.