The Complete Book of Knots provides easy-to-follow instructions for selecting and tying more than 100 of the most useful knots. With knots for climbing, sailing, and fishing, every knot entry contains a brief introduction to the history and development of the knot, its alternative names, and information on its uses and special features. Color illustrations guide you step-by-step through the stages of tying each knot correctly and safely. Distinctive symbols provide a condensed at-a-glance key to all the suitable uses of a particular knot from the Bowline - the king of knots - to the elegant twists of the Cat's Paw and the practical simplicity of the Cow Hitch. In addition to knot-tying techniques, the book contains a comprehensive glossary of terms to guide you through the complexities of different rope types and helps you choose the right rope for every task.