Überhandknoten

The Überhandknoten, also known as the overhand knot, is one of the simplest and most fundamental knots. It is formed by passing the working end of a rope or cord around the standing part and then through the bight created. This results in a knot that effectively jams and can be difficult to untie if pulled very tight.

Its primary uses are to prevent the end of a rope from fraying or unravelling, or as a stopper knot. While it is very easy to tie, it is not a secure knot for joining two ropes or for creating a loop that needs to hold significant tension without slipping. In climbing, for instance, it is generally not used for critical applications due to its tendency to jam and its limited strength.

The Überhandknoten is often the first knot learned by beginners due to its simplicity. It serves as a building block for more complex knots, such as the double overhand knot, which provides a more secure stopper. Despite its basic nature, its ease of tying and its ability to prevent fraying make it a common sight in everyday situations, from securing shoelaces temporarily to preventing the end of a string from escaping a spool.