The Stone Hitch is one of my favorite canyon knots because it isolates both strands of the rope. That means the load on one strand does not simply transfer through the system to the other strand.
For group movement, this can let the next person rig on an independent strand while the first descends. Simultaneous rappelling requires an anchor and complete system suitable for both loads, compatible rope paths, no rockfall conflict, and competent supervision. Efficiency alone is not a reason to put two people on an anchor.
PROS
• Allows two rappel strands to be used independently.
• Useful with toggle-style retrievable systems described elsewhere in the book.
• Supports efficient group sequencing and some ghosting techniques.
CONS
• Requires an additional carabiner or appropriate toggle in the setup.
• The basic configuration is not a stuck-rappeller lowering system.
CAUTION: In the carabiner Stone setup shown here, the last person must remove the Stone and verify the planned double-strand rappel or another correctly rigged system. A purpose-built toggle system has a different last-person sequence; do not mix its instructions with the carabiner Stone sequence.
CANYONEERING USAGE
Isolate the two rope strands at an anchor so multiple rappellers can work on separate strands when the system is correctly rigged.
Create a temporary blocking point that can improve sequencing and efficiency at a rappel station.
Create a closed clip-in loop between the anchor and the Stone for appropriate station management.
Use as part of retrievable or toggle-based canyon rigging only after the system and release sequence have been practiced.
Remove or reconfigure the Stone before the last person descends, according to the planned last-person sequence.
ADDITIONAL READING:
• CanyoneeringUSA – The Stone Knot (aka Stein Knot): A Canyoneering Secret Weapon
• CanyoneeringUSA – Biner Blocks and Pull Cord Techniques for Backcountry Canyoneering
• CanyoneeringUSA – Ghosting Techniques in Canyoneering: An Introduction
• The Mountaineers – Assistant Canyon Leader Skills
• RopeWiki – Stone Knot
• DyeClan – Stone Knot / Stein Knot
STONE HITCH
01
Form a long bight in the rope and keep the two standing strands together beside the carabiner.
02
Cross the doubled bight over the front of the two standing strands, creating the lower loop shown. Keep the standing strands on top at the crossing.
STONE HITCH
03
Rotate the lower loop upward from its previous position, following the path shown in the photo.
04
Bring that loop through the center opening to form the Stone Hitch shape. Keep the two standing strands parallel.
STONE HITCH
05
Clip the carabiner through the doubled loop as shown. For the secured carabiner Stone method, rotate it and also capture ONE upper rope strand before locking it.
06
Orient and lock the carabiner so its wide basket blocks the doubled loop and one upper rope strand remains captured. Dress and snug the knot, then inspect the complete load path. Have an instructor verify the configuration during controlled practice.
KNOT GUIDE