Reef Knot / Square Knot

The Reef Knot, also known as the Square Knot, is an ancient and simple binding knot used to secure a rope or line around an object. It is formed by tying two overhand knots, with the second one being tied in the opposite direction of the first one, creating a symmetrical knot. The reef knot is often used in boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities for securing loads or tying up parcels. It is also used in first aid as a bandage knot.

1. Take the end of one rope and place it over the other rope, creating a “bight” (a loop) with the top rope.
2. Take the end of the second rope and place it over the first rope, creating another bight next to the first one.
3. Take the top of the first bight (the end of the first rope) and thread it under the second rope and up through the second bight.
4. Take the top of the second bight (the end of the second rope) and thread it under the first rope and up through the first bight.
5. Pull on both ends of the ropes to snug the knot up.

Note: Reef Knot is a binding knot, it’s not suitable for critical load bearing applications.