Flat Overhand Bend
Also called Offset overhand bend
The two ends held together and tied as one in an overhand knot. Because the knot sits to one side, it slides over edges and snags less, which is why climbers use it to join abseil ropes.
- Difficulty
- ●○○ Easy
- Security
- Moderate
- Untying
- Moderate
Drag to turn the knot. Scroll or pinch to zoom.
- 1Lay the two ends side by side, both pointing the same way.
- 2Treat them as one rope and bring them round to make a loop.
- 3Take the pair behind and up through the loop, as for an overhand knot.
- 4Dress the knot so the strands lie parallel, then pull each of the four strands tight.
- 5Check that the tails are long and the knot is fully tightened.
Arrow keys step through. Tags show whether the moving end passes over or under.
Knots used to hold people need training. Learn life-safety knots from a qualified instructor, and have a partner check every one before it is loaded.
Use it for
- Joining two ropes for an abseil, so the knot is less likely to catch when the ropes are pulled down.
- A quick join in cord or string.
Watch out
- Leave long tails (at least a forearm’s length) and pull every strand tight.
- Do not swap it for a flat figure-eight, which rolls off much more easily.
Untying
Flex it to loosen, then open the overhand.