The Monkey's Fist Knot

This knot is used to tie the end of a climbing rope into a tight ball so the rope can be thrown. When a rope is coiled it is difficult to throw long distances because the coils of the rope catch the wind. With the monkey's fist knot tied to the end of a small coil, it can be thrown much further. This knot was first used by mariners to throw a tow line to another boar or to shore.

The knot is about the size of a "fist" when tied. Mariners coined the name "monkey's fist" because of it's shape. The monkey's fist is an ideal knot for many climbing situations where a rope needs to be thrown. The monkey's fist knot helps you heave a rope a little further out over a ledge, a bush, or up to a Routesetter in a gym.

Sequence to Tie the Monkey's Fist Knot

Step 1.

To start tying the monkey's fist, you need about 10 feet of rope. You need this much! Wrap 3 times around your fist then pull the end inside and through the loops.

Step 2.

Wrap three loops on the outside of the first set of loops.

Step 3.

Pass the end back into and through the first set of loops.

Step 4.

Wrap the second set of loops 3 times inside the first set of loops.

Step 5.

There should be about 2 feet left over. Pull the end back and tie a stopper to the long end.

Step 6.

Ready to throw the rope. The monkey's fist knot makes a dense mass at the end of the rope. The rope can then be thrown much further than without the knot.