The Siberian Hitch is a quick-release knot, easy to tie with gloves, often used in cold climates.
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Siberian Hitch Details
Found in: Hitches, Quick Release
Also known as: Evenk Hitch
Origin: The Siberian Hitch Knot, also known as the Evenk Hitch Knot, is a slipped hitch. It uses a Figure 8 Knot tied around the Standing End. Wikipedia records its use in the early 1990s by the Nenets people of Northern Russia.
Tying it: The Siberian Hitch Knot is often tied with gloves. This honors its Northern Russian roots. One common technique shows the gloved hand rising as though in salute. Todd Beal demonstrates it in one of the shorter videos.
You can also use the method shown in our animation with gloves on. Moreover, it reveals the underlying Figure 8 structure and does not twist the line. You can tighten the Figure 8 component before sliding the knot against the tree. However, it is more common to tension the knot by pulling on the standing end with one hand and the bight with the other.
Security: The Siberian Hitch Knot has a moderate level of security. While it works well for creating a ridge line for a tent, you shouldn’t trust it for heavier loads.
Similar Knot: The Siberian Hitch Knot is like the Halter Hitch Knot (ABOK # 1804, p. 305). The Halter Hitch uses a slipped Overhand Knot. Like the Siberian Hitch Knot, you should not trust it for critical loads.
Advantages: It is convenient to tie it and release it with gloves on. You can also tie it at some distance from an object and then tighten it until it rests against it.
Alternative: Some writers recommend the slipped Buntline Hitch as a more secure alternative.
Quick Release Hitches: We cover several quick-release hitches. These include The Highwayman’s Hitch, The TumbleHitch, and the Mooring Hitch. Of the four, the Tumble Hitch may be the most secure.
Real Danger: Quick release hitches are dangerous for a climber rappelling down. Frightened by a sudden slip or jerk, a grab at the adjacent line can trigger a fatal fall. There are safe alternatives.
(Reference source: animatedknots.com)
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