How to Tie the Figure Eight Stopper Knot
The Figure Eight Stopper Knot
The Figure Eight Stopper Knot is a simple and reliable stopper knot used to create a secure end in a rope, helping to prevent the line from slipping through holes, blocks, belay devices, or other openings. It is valued for its distinctive figure-eight shape, which creates a larger and more secure stopper than a basic Overhand Knot while remaining relatively easy to inspect and untie after loading. Because of this combination of simplicity, strength, and practicality, the Figure Eight Stopper Knot is commonly used in climbing, sailing, rescue, and general rope-work applications whenever a dependable stopper knot is required.
Other Names: Savoy Knot, Figure Eight Knot, Figure of Eight Knot
Figure Eight Stopper Knot Instructions
Today, the Figure Eight Stopper Knot is one of the most widely used stopper knots in the world. Its structure consists of a single turn that crosses over itself to form the characteristic figure-eight pattern before the working end is passed through and tightened. This design creates a compact, secure knot that maintains a high percentage of the rope’s strength while providing excellent stopping power. The Figure Eight Stopper Knot is included in The Ashley Book of Knots (ABOK #570) and serves as the foundation for many other knots, including the Figure Eight Loop and Double Figure Eight variations commonly used in climbing and rescue work.
Key Considerations
Proper dressing of the Figure Eight Stopper Knot is important to ensure the knot is correctly formed and performs as intended. The strands should follow a clean and symmetrical figure-eight pattern with no unnecessary twists or crossings. Careful dressing and setting help maximize strength, improve stability, and make the knot easier to inspect. 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 Figure Eight Stopper Knot is its balance of security and ease of untying after moderate loading. It is simple to learn, quick to tie, and less likely to jam than many other stopper knots. Its recognizable shape also makes incorrect tying easier to detect during inspection. These qualities have made it a favourite among climbers, sailors, rescuers, 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.
ABOK #420 - Figure Eight Stopper
ABOK Numbers: Abok #420, Abok #520, Abok #570
The Figure Eight Stopper is featured several times in Ashley’s Book of Knots because it is the basis for many other knots, both stopper and loop. Three main instances come to mind:
Abok #420,
‘A Figure-Eight Knot (520) is tied wherever a temporary stopper is needed and also near the ends of all running rigging, to prevent unreeving.’
Abok #520,
‘The Figure-Eight or Figure-of-Eight Knot is also called (in books) the Flemish Knot. The name Figure-of-Eight Knot appears in Lever’s Sheet Anchor; or, a Key to Rigging (London, 1808). The word of nowadays is usually omitted. The knot is the sailor’s common Single-Strand Stopper Knot and is tied in the ends of tackle falls and running rigging, unless the latter is fitted with Monkey’s Tails. It is used about ship wherever a temporary Stopper Knot is required. The Figure-Eight is much easier to untie than the Overhand, it does not have the same tendency to jam and so injure the fiber, and is larger, stronger, and equally secure.’
Abok #570,
‘The basic knots for twist braid (or plat) are the Overhand Knot (#569) and the Figure-Eight Knot (#570). By giving the loop at the bottom an extra half twist and tucking the end once, the two plats may be lengthened. Each additional half twist and tuck adds a total of three bights to the two sides of the knot.’
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.