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How to Tie Round Turn and Two Half Hitches

Easy
⛵ Sailing⛺ Camping🚢 Boating

Round turn and two half hitches is one of the most reliable general-purpose hitches in sailing and camping — the round turn absorbs shock, the two half hitches lock the load.

How to Tie a Round Turn and Two Half Hitches Step by Step

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Written Instructions — Round Turn and Two Half Hitches

  1. Pass rope around post Lead rope to post and pass around once.
  2. Complete the round turn Continue around a second time so working end crosses standing part (1.5 wraps total).
  3. First half hitch Pass working end around standing part and tuck through the loop.
  4. Second half hitch — done Repeat immediately below the first. Pull both tight.

Tips for Tying a Round Turn and Two Half Hitches

  • The round turn distributes the load over more of the post, reducing friction and wear on the rope.
  • Unlike a clove hitch, round turn and two half hitches holds securely even when the load direction changes.
  • This is the correct hitch for attaching a fender, mooring a small boat, or securing a line to a ring or bollard.
  • After tying, the working end should point downward and away from the post — if it points upward you may have the half hitches reversed.

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