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Prusik knot

From Climbopedia
Revision as of 16:26, 16 August 2025 by Karl (talk | contribs) (Tying)
Prusik knot
Other namesPrusik, prusik hitch
Use(s)abseiling, advanced rope techniques including (self-)rescue techniques
ProsFast, clean, just an accessory cord or a sling needed
ConsCompared to traxion, tiblocs and such it is a bit tedious to get loosen in some cases and it must be moved actively
CategoryHitch
Strength~5-8 kN when a 5-7mm accessory cord is used[1]

Prusik knot (technically a hitch) is a very versatile hitch used in abseiling, pulley systems, prusiking up the ropes. In some of the applications it can be replaced by tibloc and various traxions and similar devices which provides improved comfort of use by unidirectionally moving seamlessly on the rope while providing the same stopping functionality as prusik.

Tying

Steps description: Wrap an accessory cord around a rope as illustrated (1), do it two more times (2), pull the rest of the accessory cord loop to dress the prusik (3) and try if it blocks properly (4) and visually inspect if everything looks as it should (5).

References

  1. Jenks, Ryan (16 June 2021). Prusik, Auto Blocks, and Klemheist Break Tests. HowNOT2. Retrieved 16 August 2025.