Monkey's Fist Keyring.
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The Monkey's Fist (or monkey paw) is a type of knot, so named because it looks a little like a small bunched fist or paw. Commonly used at the end of a rope to serve as a weight, the Monkey's Fist makes it easier to throw a 'heaving' line from one boat to another, or to shore. This line would be attached to a lighter 'feeder' line or rope by means of a Bowline (a simple but very old knot used to form a fixed loop at the end of a line). It has been known for a weight to be placed inside the Fist, such as a stone, but this practice is frowned upon.
The UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s (MCA) publication “Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seamen”, Section 25.3.2, states that “heaving lines should be constructed with a “monkey’s fist” at one end. To prevent personal injury, the ‘fist’ should be made only with rope and should not contain added weighting materials”. This type of weighted rope was commonly used as a sailors hand-to-hand weapon called a ‘Slungshot’. The Monkey's Fist knot also makes a great ornament and we shall be adding to our range as time goes on. Handmade in Dorset, our Monkey's Fist knot is wrapped around an Ashley's stopper knot, also known as the oysterman's stopper. This is a knot developed by Clifford W. Ashley around 1910. It makes a good strong stopper at the end of a rope, giving greater resistance to pulling through an opening than other common stoppers. In our case, however, it's used to help shape the Monkey's Fist. Perfect for the outdoorsy person, this keychain is made using approximately 1 metre of 550lb Paracord. You never know when you might need a metre of strong cord! We then form a loop at the other end and attach a mini carabiner. The mini carabiner can then be used to attach keys or attach the Fist to a zip. A handy thing indeed, although one wouldn't want to use the carabiner for supporting one's own weight! We can also supply a brass ring in place of the carabiner. Other cord colours available too, pictures coming soon. This keyring is a homage to the original Monkey's Fist. With a Bowline loop at the opposite end, it's a great mini reproduction of the line that a true sailor would heave across to a dock or another ship. We can supply the Fist with any loop that you desire, as you can see in the photograph (L to R; Hangman’s Noose, Slip Knot, Perfection Knot, Bowline, Poachers Knot, Figure of Eight and a Scaffold Knot). Please just ask. You can always create your own loop of course! Length varies depending on the loop, the Hangman's Noose is around 9cm, with the Bowline up to 23cm. The Fist generally has a 2.5cm diameter. Priced at £5.99 (plus postage), profits will be going to the RNLI. Please include your preferred end loop, colour (Kayaking for Charity (orange/blue), Komodo (green/purple/yellow), Red or Dark Blue) If you have another colour in mind, please contact Roy. Please ensure that we have your contact details. Delivery guaranteed in time for it to be used as the perfect Stocking Filler! Please go to our Etsy shop to choose the right one for you! |
Image from New Zealand Digital Library.
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