I haven't actually tried this but looks interesting..

http://www.metacafe.com/watch/696693/the_impossible_knot/

Ain't that a double Fisherman's-knot?



If so, it's a very good and easy knot...but far from impossible (unless you tighten it very,very hard)

Yes it is.

Dave

Yeck, I have been tieing "hatchet knots" my whole life. They rarely look the same twice, but you can't untie them...

If you are going to attach two pieces of line, rope, string, etc., the best knots, IMO, are normally those that are likely to jam; i.e. you will not be able to untie them easily if at all. I prefer using a double becket bend, see: http://www.tpub.com/content/administration/14067/css/14067_57.htm, because it is very secure. You probably would not tie a knot like the fisherman's or becket bend, unless you were joining two different pieces of line together. It could be done because the one you have is too short or when tying a fishing line to a leader, etc. If you do need to cut one of these knots, cut the loops that you made around the standing parts, which should help you save more length from the line.

As far as the ultimate knot, that title belongs to, has always belonged to, and will always belong to the bowline. IMO, one should know how to tie a bowline with your eyes closed.

"...one should know how to tie a bowline with your eyes closed..."

Or around your waste one handed.

When I need to tie two lines together I usually use a sheet bend . If I want to untie it later, I make it "slippery" by doubling the tag end back on itself, that way I can just pull on that and it comes apart...

Have not tried that one, although I don't think I will have a problem with it. I'll do it shortly. I think I might use a French bowline for around the waist, as it can be used as an emergency sling.

Knots are tools. Using the right tool for the job, improves the chances you will succeed and makes it easier to do so.

Animated Knots by Grog - The One-handed Bowline -

http://www.animatedknots.com/bowlineoneh...imatedknots.com

Thanks. I can do that. I think I can get that down with my eyes closed in short order.

I think I can also do it with a French bowline, but that will take more practice. For the French bowline, see: http://www.tpub.com/content/administration/14067/css/14067_59.htm

When used individually (ie. you've tied a figure 8 knot and are securing the free end)(as in when you are climbing) it is refferred to as a "stop knot". This is from it's 'job' of 'stopping' the free end from coming free.