How to Tie the Double Overhand Stopper Knot
Double Overhand Stopper Knot
The Double Overhand Stopper Knot is a simple and reliable stopper knot used to create a bulky end in a rope, helping to prevent the rope from slipping through holes, blocks, pulleys, or other openings. It is valued for its ease of tying, compact structure, and ability to create a larger stopper than a standard overhand knot. Because of this combination of simplicity, security, and practicality, the Double Overhand Stopper Knot is commonly used in climbing, sailing, camping, rescue, and general rope-work applications whenever a dependable stopper knot is needed at the end of a line.
Other Names: Multiple Overhand Knot
Double Overhand Stopper Knot Instructions
The Double Overhand Stopper Knot is a stopper knot variation of the traditional overhand knot. The Double Overhand Stopper is widely used across a variety of outdoor, industrial, and recreational activities where a secure end knot is required. Its structure is based on the standard Overhand Knot but incorporates an additional turn around the standing part before being tightened. This modification creates a larger, more secure stopper that is less likely to work loose and provides greater resistance to pulling through openings. The Double Overhand Stopper Knot is included in The Ashley Book of Knots (ABOK #516) and is recognized as one of the most common and effective stopper knots in practical use.
Key Considerations
Proper dressing of the Double Overhand Stopper Knot is important to ensure the knot is correctly formed and performs as intended. The turns should be arranged neatly and tightened evenly so that the knot forms a compact and symmetrical shape. Careful dressing and setting help maximize security, improve consistency, and reduce the likelihood of the knot becoming distorted under load. As with all knots, the finished knot should be visually inspected before use to confirm that it has been tied correctly and fully tightened.
Advantages & Disadvantages
One of the key advantages of the Double Overhand Stopper Knot is its combination of simplicity and security. It can be tied quickly, requires minimal rope, and creates a substantial stopper that performs well in a wide range of applications. Although it can become difficult to untie after being heavily loaded, its reliability and ease of tying make it a popular choice among climbers, sailors, and outdoor enthusiasts. However, like any knot used in load-bearing applications, it should be properly tied, dressed, and inspected before use to ensure reliable performance.
For other stopper knots worthy of consideration, see the E-Star Stopper (dyneema), Stevedore Stopper (bulkier), and the Ashley Stopper (even bulkier).
ABOK #516 - Double Overhand Stopper
ABOK Numbers: Abok #516
In Ashley’s Book of Knots, the Double Overhand Stopper is described as:
Abok #516,
‘The Double Overhand Knot is called a Blood Knot when used on a cat-o’-nine-tails, or on the snapper of an ox whip.’
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.