Constrictor Knot (Hitch)
(Also Known As: Bag Knot)

Uses: Once you learn to tie and use the constrictor knot (hitch), you will wonder where it has been hiding in all those knot books and why it is not in wider use today. Back in the days when black powder was used for blasting in mining operations, this was the knot that was tied around the top of the bag containing the black powder to hold the fuse in securely; hence, it's other common name, the bag knot.

The constrictor is based on the clove hitch, except that it has an extra half-knot that provides an extra hold when the knot is pulled tight.

Instructions: 1) Make a turn around the spar with the running end. 2) Cross over the standing part of the rope and under the spar. 3) Cross over the standing part and then under the first loop around the spar. 4) Pass the working end under the standing part. 5) Pull the knot (hitch) tight.