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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/climb-rappel-stopper-knots

Why do climbers tie bulky stopper knots in the ends of a rappel rope?

So you can't rappel off the end of the rope.

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  1. To help prevent rappelling off the rope's end ✔
  2. To make the rope easier to coil
  3. To mark the middle of the rope

Why: A bulky knot is intended to catch in the rappel device or backup hitch and can keep you from rappelling off the end. Tie, dress and manage the rope ends carefully.

Huh, didn't know that: The AAC lists managing the rope ends as one of its four fundamental principles of rappelling.

The dad joke
Stopper knots are the bouncers of the rope world. Nobody gets past them.
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References

Answer: To help prevent rappelling off the rope's end. A bulky knot is intended to catch in the rappel device or backup hitch and can keep you from rappelling off the end. Tie, dress and manage the rope ends carefully.

  1. AAC Publications: Know the Ropes, Crafty Rappel Techniques publications.americanalpineclub.org/articles/13201217362
    This provides an easy way to avoid rappelling off the ends of your rope.
    Checked 2026-10-12.
  2. Joshua Tree National Park: Climbing Safety www.nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/climbing_safety.htm
    Tie knots at the end of your rope for added security when rappelling or lowering.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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