The Follow-Through solves a different problem than the Figure-8 On a Bight. When the loop has to go around or through something that is already there, you start with the Figure-8 form and then retrace it with the working end.
PROS
• Useful when the rope has to pass through an existing object before the loop can be completed.
• Easy to inspect once the strands are properly retraced and dressed.
CONS
• Takes longer to tie than a Figure-8 On a Bight.
CAUTION: Follow the original Figure-8 path cleanly and inspect the finished knot for correct alignment before loading it.
CANYONEERING USAGE
Tie directly through the manufacturer-approved harness tie-in points when a retraced Figure-8 is the selected tie-in knot.
Attach a rope around or through a fixed object when a pre-formed loop cannot simply be clipped into place.
Create a secure retraced attachment where the rope must pass through hardware before the knot is completed.
Practice precise retracing, dressing, and partner inspection – the second strand should follow the first strand exactly.
ADDITIONAL READING
• Petzl – Knots (Figure-Eight Knot for Tying In)
• CMC Pro – Figure 8 Follow-Through Loop
• American Canyoneering Academy – Need-To-Know Canyon Knots: Figure-8 Retraced
• The Mountaineers – Standard Techniques
• The Mountaineers – Basic Climbing Knots
• CMC Pro – Popular Knots and Bends for Rope Access
FIGURE-8 FOLLOW-THROUGH
01
Leave a generous working end and form the first loop of a loose Figure-8 knot. Keep the knot open enough to retrace later.
02
Cross the working end over the standing part to continue building the Figure-8 shape.
FIGURE-8 FOLLOW-THROUGH
03
Carry the working end around the standing part and pass it back through the first loop, completing a loose Figure-8 knot.
04
Pass the working end through the manufacturer-approved harness tie-in point or points shown for your harness.
FIGURE-8 FOLLOW-THROUGH
05
From the harness, feed the working end back into the Figure-8 from the opposite direction. Follow directly beside the original strand through the first opening.
06
Continue retracing the original rope path. Stay under the first strand, pass through the central opening, and keep the two strands parallel.
FIGURE-8 FOLLOW-THROUGH
07
Follow the next turn of the original Figure-8, laying the retraced strand directly beside it instead of crossing over it.
08
Pass the working end through the doubled opening shown, continuing to mirror the original knot exactly.
FIGURE-8 FOLLOW-THROUGH
09
Pull the working end through and finish the retrace. Dress every paired strand so the two rope paths remain parallel.
10
Tighten and inspect the finished knot. Confirm the Figure-8 is fully retraced, the harness tie-in points are captured correctly, no strands cross unnecessarily, and an adequate tail remains.
KNOT GUIDE