Munter-Mule Knot

Applications: Escaping the belay, rescue maneuvers, passing a knot in a rappel

The Munter Mule Knot is a useful combination knot that allows the user to stop passage of the rope past a carabiner, but that can be easily released with the pull of a rope to allow a smooth, controlled lower. It is an essential part of the system used to escape a belay, can be used with a Prussik to pass a knot in a rappel rope, and is vital for many improvised rescue maneuvers. To insure the knot is secure, the user should utilize an Overhand Knot as a backup.

How to tie:
Tie a Munter Hitch in the rope, then pull the knot as tight as desired, locking off upwards. Maintaining tension, create two loops in the brake strand on either side of and behind the main strand. Pass one loop through the other over the top of the main strand, and carefully pull it tight while maintaining tension. This is a completed Munter-Mule Knot. Now back it up by tying an Overhand On a Bight with the bight of rope protruding from the knot, and include the main strand in the knot.

Below you will find an instructional video on how to tie a Mule Knot above a belay device: