This knot is used to tie the end of a climbing rope into a tight ball so the rope can be thrown. When a rope is coiled it is difficult to throw long distances because the coils of the rope catch the wind. With the monkey's fist knot tied to the end of a small coil, it can be thrown much further. This knot was first used by mariners to throw a tow line to another boar or to shore. The knot is about the size of a "fist" when tied. Mariners coined the name "monkey's fist" because of it's shape.
The main purpose of the knot is to serve as a weight at the end of a rope. It can be thrown simply that way. It is very easy to conceal and use it as a weapon to slow down your attacker. It originated as a heaving line knot on sailing ships of yesteryear. Formerly, it was also used as a melee weapon among gangs and sailors.
The monkey fist is a type of knot that can be used as a decorative knot or as a weight at the end of a rope. Getting the hang of successfully tying the monkey knot comes with practice and patience. Go slowly and stay patient. Lindsey Campbell.
To Step use Arrow Keys. Set Speed using 1 — 5. Found in: Decorative. Also known as: Monkey Paw.