Use a closed loop of cord beside the larger host rope. The joining knot is kept outside this close-up.
Loops & Ropework · 11 steps
Wrap a closed cord loop around a host rope and pass the long bight through the short one.
Also known as Kleimheist, French Machard knot.
The Klemheist is a directional friction hitch made from a closed loop. Wrap the loop upward around the main rope, leaving a short bight above the turns. Feed the longer lower bight through that opening and draw it down to gather the wraps.
The pull-through belongs to the same continuous loop; it does not open or disconnect at any stage. Compare it with a Prusik, whose wraps and central crossing are arranged differently. Releasing tension allows a correctly matched hitch to be repositioned.
When to use it
Practice a directional friction hitch on a larger rope.
Compare closed-loop gripping hitches and their loading directions.
Keep in mind
Grip depends on both materials, their diameters and the number of wraps. Climbing or hauling systems need qualified instruction and checks with the actual equipment.
Check your knot
The cord remains one closed loop.
The long bight passes through the upper short bight.
The coils sit together and are loaded in their intended direction.
How to tie Klemheist
Begin with a cord loop
Use a closed loop of cord beside the larger host rope. The joining knot is kept outside this close-up.
Make the first wrap
Carry the closed upper fold around the host rope.
Add the second wrap
Continue in the same direction, keeping the doubled turns parallel.
Add the third wrap
Lay another turn above the earlier turns.
Complete four wraps
Keep the long lower bight free. All four doubled wraps have the same direction.
Open the upper bight
Leave a small opening above the coil band.
Lift the lower loop
Bring the long lower loop up in front of the small upper opening.
Align the closed fold
Keep the lower loop closed and line it up with the upper opening.
Pass through the upper bight
Push the lower loop through the upper bight.
Pull the loading loop down
Draw the long loop down through the upper bight. This hitch is directional; actual use requires the right cord and instruction.
Snug the return around the wraps
Draw the return loop against the coil band. Keep the loading bight closed and through the upper opening.
