The Figure-8 family shows up constantly because it is easy to recognize, easy to inspect, and easy to build into other useful knots. The basic Figure-8 on this page is primarily presented as a stopper-knot form.
Later variations – On a Bight, Follow-Through, and the Figure-8 Bend – change what the knot can do.
PROS
• Larger and more obvious than a simple Overhand when used as a stopper.
• Easy to tie, inspect, and usually untie.
CONS
• Bulkier than an Overhand and more likely to snag in tight systems.
CAUTION: Use rope-end stopper knots where appropriate to prevent an accidental rappel off the end. Moving-water landings can require a deliberately unknotted rope set to a verified length to avoid entrapment. That exception requires trained water assessment, releasable rigging, communication, and a rescue plan; it is not a blanket rule to remove knots from every Class C rappel.
CANYONEERING USAGE
• Use as the basic shape that leads into the Figure-8 on a Bight, Figure-8 Follow-Through, and Figure-8 Bend.
• Use as a stopper knot in selected rope systems where a Figure-8 stopper is appropriate.
• Practice dressing and inspection: the clean, recognizable shape makes strand errors easier to spot.
• Use as a building block for anchor and attachment knots taught elsewhere in this section.
ADDITIONAL READING
• Petzl – Knots (Figure-Eight Knot)
• CanyoneeringUSA – Simple Canyoneering Knots: The Overhand and Figure Eight Knots
• CMC Pro – Learn Your Knots: Figure 8 Knot
• The Mountaineers – Standard Techniques
• American Canyoneering Academy – Need-To-Know Canyon Knots
• CMC Pro – Evaluating Rescue Knot Efficiency in 11 mm General Use Ropes
FIGURE-8 KNOT
01
Lay the rope flat and identify the working end. Leave enough rope to form the complete Figure-8 without crowding the turns.
02
Cross the working end over the standing part to create the first open loop.
FIGURE-8 KNOT
03
Carry the working end around and behind the standing part. This creates the second lobe of the Figure-8 shape.
04
Bring the working end back across the front and pass it through the original loop in the direction shown.
FIGURE-8 KNOT
05
Pull the working end and standing part to snug the knot. Dress the two turns into a clean, symmetrical Figure-8 and leave an adequate tail.
KNOT GUIDE