What is the knot efficiency of a bowline anchor?

The knot efficiency of a bowline knot is commonly considered to be around 67%. This efficiency percentage indicates that when the knot is tied, it retains about two-thirds of the rope’s original strength when loaded. This relatively high efficiency is due in part to the knot's structure, which creates a fixed loop that does not slip under tension, allowing it to hold strong in various applications.

Understanding knot efficiency is crucial for rescue technicians because it directly impacts the safety and effectiveness of rope systems. A knot with a lower efficiency can result in a significant reduction in the overall strength of the rope system being used, which can be dangerous in rescue situations.

In contrast, other knots may provide varying efficiencies based on their design and how they impact the rope's integrity when loaded. The bowline's ease of tying and untying, even after being loaded, adds to its desirability in rescue scenarios, further supporting the choice of 67% as the correct efficiency rating.