Taut-Line Hitch

The taut-line hitch is an adjustable loop knot for use on lines under tension. It is useful when the length of a line will need to be periodically adjusted in order to maintain tension. It is made by tying a rolling hitch around the standing part after passing around an anchor object.

Tension is maintained by sliding the hitch to adjust size of the loop, thus changing the effective length of the standing part without retying the knot. It is typically used for securing tent lines in outdoor activities involving camping.

To begin, pass the rope around the peg. Bring the end under and over the standing part and twice through the loop formed. Again, bring the rope end under, over, and through the loop formed. Tighten the hitch around the standing part. When using the taut-line hitch to tie a tent guy line, you can tighten or loosen the line by pushing the hitch up or down on the standing part.