Blake's Hitch: A Practical Method for Learners

This video covers a detailed approach to tying a Blake's hitch which is resistant to the most commonly missed error - tying a sui-slide hitch. This tying method combines a few key elements for a robust process: • Initially placing the bridge in FRONT of the downrope (standing part), supporting it with the thumb and middle fingers. • Laying the index finger alongside the BACK of the downrope to create space in the proper location for the tail. • Draping the tail over the bridge & palm to count turns and after the final wrap. A 4/2 Blake's is shown here, but the same approach will work for 5/3 or other variants. Video also covers two ways to identify that the tail has been passed around the bridge and through the knot correctly, as well as what these indicators look like when the hitch has been formed incorrectly (the sui-slide hitch). This is NOT a comprehensive video on other tying methods, checks, tuning or using the hitch. (For example, the bridge in this video has been made shorter than typically employed in the tree to make filming and viewing easier.) Instead this video is intended to supplement other resources such as the Tree Climbers Companion and in-person instruction. === 00:00 Title 00:02 Tie 01:20 Dress 01:36 Set 01:51 Check 02:33 DANGER! Sui-slide hitch === I uploaded this video as an alternative to my earlier video reflecting a change in my preferences when learning a basic Moving Rope System. I now encourage new climbers on closed MRS / traditional DRT to use an anchor hitch as an attachment knot for better alignment with ANSI Z133 standards as many are interested in pursuing arboriculture as a career. I hope it is useful to anyone learning or teaching this knot. === ⚠︎ Working or playing at height is dangerous and carries inherent risk. ⚠︎ The information provided here is intended as a refresher for climbers who have a) taken a formal, hands-on tree climbing course from a qualified instructor AND b) developed the required knowledge, skills, experience and judgement to manage risk in a tree climbing environment. This video not a substitute for professional instruction nor is it offered with any guarantee of completeness, accuracy or applicability.