A stick or spike is used to make a knot in the rope .
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Marlinspike Hitch Details
Found in: Scouting
History: Ashley lists the Marlinspike Hitch Knot as “Marlingspike” (ABOK # 2030, p. 330). He said someone made it with a marling-spike. This tool helps pull on a strand or line when splicing, seizing, or serving a rope. “Marling” itself refers to the practice of making a series of half hitches around a rope to protect it. With modern ropes, such use is rare.
Making a Ladder: The Marlinspike Hitch Knot is great for securing a pole or bar. It holds weight with great effectiveness. The ladder shown in the animation is an excellent example. But if you use it as a ladder, you must observe several cautions:
- Correct End: You must make each Marlinspike Hitch Knot with precision. For a ladder, always make the final bight in the “top” end (the standing end) and tuck it through the loop. The result will then function as a Noose: the greater the force, the tighter the grip. If someone uses the wrong end, the reverse is true. A Slip Knot forms, and increasing force loosens the grip.
- Keep Level: Each rung should be horizontal. Secure the ropes at the top of the ladder. This keeps the rungs level. It helps reduce the risk of a hitch sliding off its rung.
- Inspect: If someone has stored one of these rope ladders, the hitches will have loosened and may have slipped. Ensure you use the correct end as the top and inspect each rung to confirm it is level and gripped.
(Reference source: animatedknots.com)
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