Carrick bend

Both ropes together form a flat, interwoven pattern. Every crossing strictly alternates between over and under. This way the ropes enclose each other without either one bending the other sharply. The bends are large and gentle.

Under load the flat pattern tips into a compact, three-dimensional form – it is said to “capsize”. That is part of how this knot works. Because the ropes are still not bent in tight curves even then, it jams little and can usually be untied well after heavy loading. That is why it was used in the past for heavy hawsers on ships.

Before you load it, lay the knot flat and check the pattern. Follow each rope with your finger: at every crossing it must run alternately over and under the other. Then look at the ends: they should come out diagonally on opposite sides of the knot, not both on the same side.

“Setting” a carrick bend means: pull slowly and evenly on both standing parts until it tips into its compact form. Do not jerk it, or it may draw up unevenly. Leave the tails long enough, because rope is drawn into the knot as it capsizes. Traditionally the ends are also seized to the standing parts with thin cord so the knot keeps its shape.

The most common mistake is a wrong crossing: one rope goes over or under twice in a row. Then it is no longer a carrick bend but something that can behave unpredictably under load. A second typical mistake is having both ends on the same side. That gives a form that the literature regards as weaker. And third: tails that are too short.

In thin, slick cord the carrick bend works less well, because the large curves give less grip there. It is also unsuitable where the knot must run through blocks, eyelets or tight openings. Note: the step description for this knot is still under editorial review – when learning it, it is best to compare with a good knot book.

The carrick bend is the choice for thick, stiff ropes, where other bends are hard to tie or can hardly be undone after loading. If you need to join two thick ropes, for example to drag something heavy, and want to separate them again afterwards, it is ideal.

For thin cords you are better off with a sheet bend or, if the join is meant to stay, a double fisherman's. The carrick bend is not intended for anything life-safety related. Life-safety use only after proper training with certified equipment.

The carrick bend is an old sailor's knot. Its flat form is also the basis of decorative knots and mats in which the pattern is repeated several times. Its German name is not standardised.

The good news for learners: once you understand the principle of “over – under – over – under”, you can check any carrick bend yourself, even one someone else has tied. That makes it a nice practice knot for looking closely.