Learn the basic knots, the capstan knot

This knot is the perfect mooring knot, but it does not like to be relaxed: it tends to slip.

Sailors, sailing or motoring, use it to hit a mooring line on a bitt or to hang a fender on a line or a balcony.

Be careful, if it relaxes, it tends to slip, which is why it is sometimes wise to insure it with a half key.

To make this knot, you must be careful to always turn in the same direction.

If the ends of your rope are not accessible, you can make this knot by taking the rope in double.

We start with a dead turn.

The current crosses the frame above.

Continue turning in the same direction.

Then form a key by passing the current under itself.

Tighten by pulling the current and the frame together.

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