Knot of the Month - Figure 8 Bend

The Figure 8 Bend, or Flemish Bend provides a safe, and simple way to join two ropes. It is reasonably easy to remember, tie, and check.

Safety: For critical loads, e.g., yourself (!), the Figure 8 Bend, should not be used with ropes that differ much in size and for safety the ends should be longer. Finally, for real security, each end should be tied in a double overhand stopper knot around the other standing end as shown here.

Final Dressing: To ensure that the knot is tied correctly, it is sensible to tie the Figure 8 Bend in the “Flat” form shown. However, for taking a load, this knot should be carefully dressed so that the two outermost turns are brought in snug against the ropes they enclose – as a result the turns then finish on the other side of the turns they accompany. Dressed this way the knot withstands a load better.

Pros and Cons: The advantage of Figure 8 Bend is that even after considerable strain it remains relatively easy to undo.

Inspection: Ensure that there are two strands beside each other at each part of the knot. Dress the Figure 8 Bend as described above. Then, pull it and observe that it tightens neatly and symmetrically.

For more info

Figure 8 Bend | How to tie a Figure 8 Bend using Step-by-Step Animations | Animated Knots by Grog