How to Tie the Slip Knot
The Slip Knot
The Slip Knot is a simple stopper knot used to create a temporary enlargement at the end of a rope, helping to prevent the line from slipping through an opening while allowing for quick and easy release. It is valued for its ability to be untied instantly with a single pull, making it useful whenever a temporary stopper is needed. Because of this combination of simplicity, speed, and convenience, the Slip Knot is commonly used in camping, scouting, packaging, and general rope-work applications where a quick-release stopper knot is desired.
Other Names: Slipped Overhand Knot
Slip Knot Instructions
Today, the Slip Knot is used in a variety of situations where a temporary stopper knot can provide sufficient security while remaining easy to remove. Its structure is formed by creating a simple overhand knot with a bight instead of passing the working end completely through the loop. This design creates a stopper knot that can be released quickly by pulling the free end of the rope. The Slip Knot is included in Ashley Book of Knots (ABOK #529) and serves as the foundation for many quick-release knot variations.
Key Considerations
Proper dressing of the Slip Knot is important to ensure the knot functions as intended. The bight should be formed neatly, and the knot tightened appropriately so that it holds securely while still retaining its quick-release capability. In addition, leaving a fair 12 inches (or longer depending on the situation) of both bight and tail end is advised. In smaller or larger circumstances, you can adjust as needed, but the practice of leaving extra tag end and bight loop size may save the knot from coming loose in the future. This tip is especially important for all quick-release knots, not just the Slip Knot.
Careful dressing helps prevent accidental release and ensures the knot performs consistently. As with all rope knots, the finished knot should be visually inspected before use to confirm that it has been tied correctly and is suitable for the intended application.
Advantages & Disadvantages
One of the key advantages of the Slip Knot is its ability to be released instantly without the need to untie the knot manually. It can be tied in seconds, requires very little rope, and is easy to learn, making it a practical choice for temporary fastening and stopper-knot applications. However, because it is designed for rapid release, it is not as secure as many permanent stopper knots and should not be relied upon in critical load-bearing or life-safety situations. Its greatest strength lies in its convenience and quick-release functionality.
For more permanent applications, see the Double Overhand Stopper (easy and effective), Ashley Stopper (bulkier and solid), or E-Star Stopper (non-slip and bulkier).
ABOK #529 - The Slip Knot
The Slip Knot is featured in Ashley’s Book of Knots as number 529. The reference goes something along the lines of:
‘The Slip Knot is closely related to the Overhand Knot, the difference between the two being in the treatment of the end. In the former the end is doubled before it is finally tucked. To untie, all that is required is a smart pull on the end of the rope, which withdraws the loop and causes the knot to spill instantly. A Slip Knot may be tied in the bight as readily as in the end, but the load must be on the standing part of the knot only. It is used wherever the necessity to cast off suddenly may arise. Carpenters tie it in the end of a weighted sash cord before the sash is put in place. It is also used in adjusting a plumb bob.
In chandleries it is tied in the ends of wicks, and after the wax has hardened the knot is untied before removing the candle from the mold. The Slip Knot is given in Moore’s British Mariner’s Vocabulary, 1801. The name has been loosely applied to a number of other unrelated knots.’
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.