The Constrictor Hitch (also called a Sack Knot, Bag Knot, or Miller’s Knot) is used to clamp / fasten a rope tightly around an object.
It has a strong, vice-like grip and is hard to untie unless you slip the knot. This knot is similar to the clove hitch in appearance but the Constrictor Hitch is stronger and thus safer.
The Constrictor Hitch is recommended to tie instead of the Clove Hitch since it’s more secure and just as fast to tie. The only downside with the Constrictor Hitch is that you can’t tie it with one hand.
To Tie a Constrictor Hitch:
| Place the end around and behind the item you are tying the rope to. |  |
| Wrap the end around to the other side of the object, crossing the standing part. |  |
| Continue wrapping the end around the dowel so the end is parallel with the standing part. |  |
| Bring the end over the standing part and tuck it under and between the two loops. |  |
| Dress and set the knot. |  |
For a more in-depth tutorial and additional information on the alpine knot, check out our video!
Mark grew up in the heart of Texas, where tornadoes and extreme weather were a part of life. His early experiences sparked a fascination with emergency preparedness and homesteading. A father of three, Mark is dedicated to teaching families how to be self-sufficient, with a focus on food storage, DIY projects, and energy independence. His writing empowers everyday people to take small steps toward greater self-reliance without feeling overwhelmed.