Transom knot
The transom knot is a simple lashing knot used to secure two linear objects, such as spars, at right angles to each other.
| Transom knot | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Category | Lashing |
| Related | Strangle knot, Constrictor knot, Square lashing |
| Releasing | Jamming |
| Typical use | Light-duty right-angle lashing |
| ABoK | #385, #1182, #1255, #3372 |
Relation to other knots
While often described in relation to the constrictor knot, the underlying structure of the transom knot is the strangle knot.[1][2] The introduction of a second, perpendicular spar into a loose strangle knot tied around another spar will illustrate this point. In relation to the upper spar, the crossings of the knot come to very closely resemble those of a constrictor knot.
Perhaps because of this Clifford Ashley described the transom knot as both "a modification of"[3] and "closely related to"[4] the constrictor knot. Despite these descriptions the transom knot is consistently illustrated in The Ashley Book of Knots as being based on a strangle knot.
Use
Suggested for binding kite sticks by Ashley,[5] it is useful generally as a light-duty or temporary square lashing. To reinforce, a second transom knot can be made on the opposite side and at a right-angle to the first.[2][5]
References
- Budworth, Geoffrey (1985) [1983], The Knot Book, New York: Sterling Publishing, pp. 63–65
- Warner, Charles (1992), A Fresh Approach to Knotting and Ropework, NSW, Australia, p. 83, ISBN 0-9592036-3-X
- Ashley, Clifford W. (1944), The Ashley Book of Knots, New York: Doubleday, p. 62
- Ashley, p. 215
- Ashley, p. 225
