Talk:Hangman's knot

I was about to write this then decided maybe we should not describe here how to tie this. Hmph. --Justfred

Some would say that's stifling the free interchange of information. But anyway... This article could certainly do with fleshing out. It doesn't stand well on it's own. Darac 21:57, 5 Nov 2003 (UTC)

I also believe there is absolutely no reason to leave out information. My memory tells that there are actually two versions of the knot. One can be pulled open and another one can not. The non-opening version can be pulled tightly shut in order to make a very convenient throwing weight for an end of any rope of suitable thickness. --blades 01:48, May 11, 2004 (UTC)

The article seems to have improved. The thirteen turns sounds like one of those things that people keep adding to myths and stories to make them seem more mystical. Then again, maybe it is something people would really have done to make the event seem more mystical. I am not a hangman, so I can't tell for sure :) --blades 09:42, 30 May 2004 (UTC)

Name change

I believe the correct name for this knot is the "Hangman's knot". A noose is the simplest kind of running knot. - From the Morrow guide to knots. ISBN 0-688-01226-4

thirteen loops

I thought a Hangman's noose traditionally had thirteen loops. Is this not true?

Pud 01:40, 15 Jul 2004 (UTC)

Each additional loop adds friction to the knot, so you adjust the number of loops according to how easily you want the knot to slide, and depending on the type and condition of the rope. 7 loops is the normal way of tying this knot (for natural rope), while 13 loops makes the knot look rather ugly (very elongated on most ropes) and a bit more unstable as the knot itself starts to bend.

I'll write some more on the main page if nobody minds, as there are "significant non-infringing [to life] uses" of the knot, and lots of history, politics and intregue to write about. Ojw 19:18, 5 Feb 2005 (UTC)