HOME  Sheepshank & Variants
The Sheepshank can be made with the one-hand twist method described for the bowline, only executed on the bight.  Of course, it can also be tied by sliding a half hitch over each bight.  This basic Sheepshank is probably not the most useful form of this knot nor is it very stable. Fattened Sheepshank Sheepshank Double Loop Sheepshank Pouch Knot The Fattened or Fat Sheepshank is made by coiling up some rope before placing the half hitches.  This more useful form not only allows for storing rope on the bight, but can be used as a handle in thinner rope to allow full manual pulling power without slipping, a hitching object, or hand injury.  The increased bearing area also allows such a structure to serve as shoulder strap.  In some cases, two half hitches, forming a Clove Hitch, are placed at either end for increased stability. If the rope you are using is actually too long for the application, rather than using a Sheepshank solution, the excess rope should typically be set aside on the non-tensioned side of a convenient anchor point.  If you are trying to isolate a damaged portion of rope, a Buttefly Loop or Midspan Sheet Bend (for larger sections) would be more stable choices. The Sheepshank Double Loop, formed by expanding the end bights of the Sheepshank, features communicating loops which are usually considered a demerit. The Sheepshank Pouch Knot is a stable variant made by passing the free ends of rope through the end bights as shown.  As it cannot be quickly undone, it is used primarily for the hammock-like shape it produces rather than storage.   Related Pages:  Midspan Sheet Bend, Span Loop, Storing Your Rope, Gasket Coil, Pile Hitch