Highwayman's hitch

Highwayman's hitch
Category	Hitch
Releasing	Non-jamming
Typical use	Quick-release, draw loop hitch

The highwayman's hitch is a type of knot. It is an insecure, quick-release, draw loop hitch for trivial use. The main feature of the hitch is that it can be untied with a very light tug of the working end, allowing for a quick release. This might not work while the standing part is under tension, or if the hitch capsizes, as often occurs when it is loaded.

History

The knot was allegedly used by highwaymen for a quick getaway when they tied up their horses to the carriage they were holding up, however this is unlikely considering the instability of the hitch.

Tying

The knot is three bights linked through one another. To tie, begin by forming a bight behind the pole. Next, pass a bight formed from the standing part (the end that will receive tension) over the pole and through the first bight. Then, pass a bight formed from the working end over the pole and through the second bight. Pull the standing part tight to ensure that it holds. Until the knot is tightened the highwayman's hitch has little holding power.

Alternatives

The notable knot index recommends the Tumble hitch as a more stable hitch. It's essentially the same hitch, but less prone to capsizing . Both knots can be seen at the Notable Knot entry page.