Outdoor rock climbing requires considerable knowledge about safe techniques and equipment. When climbing outdoors, you need to know how to build your own anchors, clip in to carabiners and how to act in an emergency situation. It is essential you know a variety of knots before attempting outdoor climbing. Knots are essential and necessary for different aspects of climbing, from how to tie in to the rope, to how to build anchors and belay without a device. Rock Climbing UK recommends every climber learns five essential knots called figure eight, clove hitch, Italian hitch, overhand knot and stopper knot.
Figure Eight
Figure eight is a follow-through knot that is one of the most popular clip-in and tie-in knots, according to the University of Oregon Outdoor Pursuit Program. The figure eight is a strong and secure knot and is typically used to tie a climber to the end of the rope. You can tie figure eight straight through the loops of your harness or clip the knot to your harness through a carabiner.
Clove Hitch
The clove hitch is an adjustable knot that is ideal for clipping into anchors. Because it is adjustable, you can easily alter the tension or slack between you and the anchor by feeding the rope back and forth. You should always tie the clove hitch into a locking carabiner and tighten it securely. A loose clove hitch can slip or detach from the carabiner.
Overhand Knot
Overhand knots can be used to join two ends of webbing together or to form a loop in the middle of a runner or rope. According to the University of Oregon Outdoor Pursuit Program, overhand knots are almost exclusively used for sling webbing, rather than for a rope. Water knot is a type of overhand knot that can be used to join two ends of webbing together. The water knot can undo over time and should be checked frequently. Add at least 3-inch tails to the knot for added security. Webbing joined together with a water knot can be used to build top rope anchors, as personal anchors or securing a belayer.
Stopper Knot
Stopper is a simple knot typically used to secure other knots from coming undone. Tie a stopper knot at the end of the rope after finishing a figure eight. You can also use stopper knots to secure the ends of a water knot. If doing this, leave longer than 3-inch tails so you can tie the stopper knot.
Italian Hitch
Italian hitch, also known as Munter hitch, is an adjustable knot that can be used as a belay device. This knot can come in handy if you lose or drop your belay device and need an emergency replacement. You can feed the rope through the knot easily on either side of the rope. If weight is placed on the rope, the knot "locks" and breaks a fall. Always use a locking carabiner and secure the lock when using an Italian hitch. Italian hitch can be tied with one hand.
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