ABOK #1720
The Round Turn and Two (or more) Half Hitches is very useful for attaching a rope to a ring, bar, pole, or dock post although probably less secure than the Anchor (Fisherman’s) Hitch. As the name suggests, the Round Turn and Two Half Hitches is composed of two important parts:
Round Turn: The initial ‘Round Turn’ – actually two passes of the tail – should take the initial strain while you complete the knot. This may be critical when handling a mooring line. An additional turn, or even two additional turns, should be added initially if you are handling a heavy load, e.g., with a large vessel or in a strong wind. These turns allow you to control the load while you add the:
Two or More Half Hitches. The two Half Hitches actually form a clove hitch round the standing end. However, it is common to see an additional one, or more Half Hitches – either to make the knot more secure or to use up excess line.