In this tutorial, Corey from Mountain Skills Academy & Adventures, an ACMG Apprentice Alpine Guide, demonstrates how to tie a barrel knot.
The two-wrap barrel knot shown here is also known as a double overhand stopper knot. It forms a compact knot near the end of a rope and is a useful technique to learn as you develop your climbing and rope-handling skills.
Corey demonstrates a simple hand position for forming the wraps, shows how to feed the tail back through them and finishes by tightening the knot with at least 30 cm of tail remaining.
Step 1: Leave Enough Rope for the Finished Tail
Begin with enough working rope to form the knot while leaving at least 30 cm of tail once it has been fully tightened.
The tail is the free end of the rope extending beyond the finished knot. Check this length after tying and tightening, because forming the wraps uses some of the available rope.
Corey’s demonstration specifies a minimum finished tail length of 30 cm.
Step 2: Form Two Wraps
Use the “finger gun” hand position shown in the video to guide the rope and keep the wraps open.
Wrap the tail around your finger and the standing section of rope twice, following Corey’s movements. Keep the wraps organised so you can clearly see the opening through which the tail will pass.
Step 3: Feed the Tail Back Through Both Wraps
Bring the working end back through the centre of both wraps.
Make sure the tail passes completely through the two wraps before you begin tightening. Keep the rope’s path consistent with the demonstration as you remove your finger and bring the knot together.
Step 4: Dress and Tighten the Knot
Arrange the rope neatly, then pull on the standing section and the tail to tighten the knot firmly.
The finished barrel knot should be compact and fully set. Corey emphasises pulling it tight rather than leaving the wraps loose.
Once the knot is tightened, check the remaining tail again. If it is shorter than 30 cm, retie the knot with more rope available at the working end.
Final Check
Before relying on the knot, confirm that:
- You have formed the two wraps demonstrated in the video.
- The tail passes through both wraps.
- The knot is neatly dressed and firmly tightened.
- At least 30 cm of tail remains beyond the tightened knot.
Have a qualified instructor check the knot and confirm that it is appropriate for its intended use within your rope system.
Safety Note: This written guide is a companion to the video and is not a substitute for hands-on instruction from a qualified climbing professional. Follow the instructions for your equipment and check the complete rope system before use.