How to Tie a Marlinspike Hitch

The marlinspike hitch is a great knot for making a rudimentary rope ladder. When tied around a pole or bar, it will resist movement in either direction, providing an ideal solution even for long term use.

Find a pole or bar to tie your rope around. Once you have practiced this knot, if you plan on making a ladder I would recommend using a thick dowel with holes drilled in it to slide the rope through to keep the hitch from slipping off the end.

Pay close attention to the photos. After forming the initial loop, make sure you don't form a plain overhand knot, as the rope doesn't pass through at that point. If creating a ladder, make sure you keep the ropes on both sides even, otherwise it will cause uneven stress on the rope and rungs.