IMO, lashing and splicing are two skills that can make primitive living much more comfortable and efficient, but are not taught in detail outside of a few specialized courses. I received the bulk of my training in both skills as a Boy Scout, and became fairly proficient in them. One of the best resources for those looking to either learn or brush up on the skills is the
Boy Scout Fieldbook (as opposed to the Handbook, which breifly covers both but not nearly as in depth as the Fieldbook). Also, the Pioneering Merit Badge Pamphlet is a handy resource.
While we're at it, let's talk knots for a bit. While there are literally hundreds of basic knots and variations, the handful I've found most useful in general fieldcraft application (I won't even touch climbing or sailing here) are:
- Square knot/Surgeon's knot - joining or fastening two running ends
- Bowline - making a fixed loop
- Half hitch/Two half hitches - securing a rope to a post/pole, such as in stringing a clothesline
- Taut-line hitch - making an adjustable tension guy line
- Sheetbend - joining two ropes of different diameter
- Girth hitch - fastening a fixed loop (such as a lanyard) to a ring, post or another line
- Clove hitch - starting and ending many lashings
- Figure 8 knot - making a stopper knot in a drawcord, or making a fixed loop
- Slip knot - daisy-chaining rope and fascinating children
Threaded Mode
