The EDK is also called the Flat/Offset Overhand Bend. In canyon use, Tom Jones recommends a second backup overhand stacked tightly against the first knot, with at least 10 inches of tail.
This book teaches one stacked offset-overhand method for compatible ropes. Distinguish a retrieval-only join from a join that will carry a person’s weight, and verify the knot, ropes, tails, and complete system for the intended use. Specialty cordage may require a different manufacturer-approved joining method.
PROS
• Very simple to remember.
• Low-profile shape pulls over edges and is less prone to snagging than many bulkier bends.
• Can join ropes of different diameters when correctly tied, backed up, dressed, and given adequate tails.
CONS
• Incorrect rigging or misuse can be extremely dangerous.
• A single unbacked offset overhand can roll/capsize; the backup and adequate tails are critical.
CAUTION: Always use the backup overhand on the EDK and leave at least 10 inches of tail. Do not use it on very stiff rope; choose a higher-security bend such as a Double Fisherman’s.
CANYONEERING USAGE
Join two rappel ropes for a pull-down rappel when an offset overhand-style bend is the selected rope-joining method.
Keep the knot profile relatively low so it is less likely to snag during retrieval than bulkier symmetrical bends.
Use the stacked/backup overhand version taught in this book and leave generous tails before committing to the rappel.
Use extra caution when ropes differ significantly in diameter, stiffness, or construction; compatibility matters.
Do not substitute this rope-joining bend for the Water Knot used to join flat webbing.
ADDITIONAL READING:
• Petzl – Knots: Flat Overhand Bend
• CanyoneeringUSA – How to Tie Two Ropes Together
• American Canyoneering Academy – Need-To-Know Canyon Knots: Euro Death Knot
• American Canyoneering Academy – EDK in Webbing?
• The Mountaineers – Standard Techniques (Flat Overhand Bend)
• Canyons & Crags – An Overhand Is an Overhand, Not…
EUROPEAN DEATH KNOT (EDK)
01
Lay the two rope ends side by side and pointing in the same direction. Leave generous tails before beginning the bend.
02
Treat the two ropes as one doubled bundle and tie the first Overhand Knot. Dress it and tighten each of its four exiting strands individually before adding the backup.
EUROPEAN DEATH KNOT (EDK)
03
Tie the backup Overhand Knot in both tails and seat it closely against the first. Tighten all four exiting strands individually and confirm that both tails remain at least 10 inches beyond the final knot, or longer if the rope manufacturer requires.
04
FINAL CHECK — Dress and tighten the two-knot stack taught here. Verify the rope compatibility, load direction, and adequate tails. Have an instructor check your finished bend during controlled practice.
PHOTO TO ADD: a fully dressed, tightened two-knot stack with both tails visible and the load direction labeled. The three-knot illustration has been removed to keep this sequence consistent.
KNOT GUIDE