[Fig. 77.] The Hackamore hitch is commonly known and used as an emergency rope bridle or halter, in the western part of the United States. Among sailors it is known as a running turk’s head, and it may be used in carrying a jug or other vessel of similar shape. When used for a halter about twenty feet will be required. The knot is started by forming a bight in the center of the rope. Proceed as indicated in the successive illustrations shown. The result will be a running turk’s head. Draw together the two center ropes forming a bridle complete with bit, nose piece, head piece and reins. Such a bridle is not suitable for continuous use, to be sure, but it will be found useful in an emergency.
[Fig. 78.] The Halter Tie is a knot preferred by some persons for use in hitching or in tying the halter rope in the stall. If properly set, it is secure and may be used in some cases in place of the underhand bowline knot. The halter tie should never be used around a horse’s neck, because if the tie is not set up correctly it forms a slip knot and its use might result in strangulation of the animal. In completing the tie draw the end through and set the knot by pulling first on the short end. This is important. If the long rope is pulled first and the kinks in it are straightened out, the tie forms a slip knot, being simply two half hitches around the rope.
[Fig. 79.] Horse-hitch or tie is commonly used by farmers and stockmen to tie a horse or cow with a rope, so it will not choke itself. Tie an overhand knot in the standing part of the rope and leave open. Tie another overhand knot or a Stevedore knot in the end of the rope. Loop the rope around the animal’s neck and insert the knotted end through the open Overhand knot. This hitch will not slip and choke the animal.
[Fig. 80.] The Manger tie is used for tying a horse or other animal to a manger or stanchion or hitching rack. The end of the halter rope is first passed through the hole in the manger with a bight or loop on the free end of the rope, tie a slip knot on the standing part. Stick the free end of the rope through the loop or bow as shown. This knot is easily and quickly tied, but under great strain will pull tight, making it hard to untie.
[Fig. 81.] The Figure Eight Manger Tie is superior to the ordinary Manger Tie in that it will not pull tight under heavy strain such as would occur if the animal became frightened and attempted to break away. Pass the free end of the rope through the hole in the manger or around the hitching rack. Form a bight or loop with the free end of the rope and hold the loop along the standing part. With the free end form another loop and serve around both the first loop and the standing part. Complete the tie by inserting the second loop through the first loop and secure by inserting the free end of the rope through the second loop as shown. This is easily untied by first withdrawing the free end from the loop and then pulling on same until knot is untied.
