Unlocking Special Forces Success Through Knot Tying and Lashing

When you attend Special Forces Assessment and Selection (SFAS), getting to the final phase, Team Week, is a significant SFAS success. To make it through, you need certain skills. Among these, knot tying and lashing are essential. Without them, your team will struggle and may not be selected.

We’re not talking about being a team player or never saying quit. Those intangibles are crucial, but knot-tying and lashing are tangible skills you must have for Team Week. Candidates sometimes neglect these skills, yet they are critical for the tasks you’ll face.

Knowing More About SFAS

By the time you reach this point in Selection, you’ll need to construct various apparatuses. These structures require tying together different pieces of equipment to transport heavy loads over long distances. If you’re good at knot-tying and lashing, you’ll be in high demand during Team Week. If not, you need to get there fast. Teams without these skills will struggle.

The JFK Special Warfare Center has a page dedicated to SFAS candidates, listing the knots and lashings you need to know. Every candidate should learn these before arriving at Selection.

Here are the essential knots published by SWC:

• Essential Knots: Bowline, Square Knot, Clove Hitch, Highwayman’s Hitch, Water Knot
• Joining Two Ends: Square Knot, Water Knot, Sheet Bend
• Lashings: Square Lashing, Diagonal Lashing, Shear Lashing
• Quick Releases: Highwayman’s Hitch, Trucker’s Hitch
• Loops: Bowline, Alpine Butterfly
• Tying Off: Highwayman’s Hitch, Clove Hitch, Bowline, Timber Hitch
• Tie Downs (Gear): Bowline, Square Knot

I would add the prusik knot and the girth hitch to this list. Many SF veterans might suggest others, but at a minimum, know these knots, their uses, and how to tie them.

A great resource for learning knots is the Animated Knots website. It provides step-by-step illustrations on how to tie each knot neatly and accurately. You can access it here: Animated Knots Website.

Knot tying and lashing are perishable skills. Without regular practice, you’ll lose proficiency. As I wrote this, I practiced with a 550 (parachute) cord and found myself messing up some knots after years without practice. Even if you were familiar with these knots before, brush up on them before heading to Selection.

Vital Preparation

Many candidates overlook this small but crucial part of SFAS preparation. Incorporate knot tying and lashing into your routine until you can tie them in your sleep. If you find yourself the only team member proficient in these skills, you’ll be indispensable. But remember, don’t just wait to be assigned this task. Volunteer and take initiative.

In SFAS, you’re always being assessed. Mastering knot tying and lashing not only makes you valuable to your team but also showcases your readiness and proactive attitude. These skills could be the difference between success and failure in Selection. So, practice, prepare, and be ready to tie those knots and lashings with confidence.

Building Competence and Confidence

Mastering knot tying and lashing isn’t just about passing Selection; it’s about building confidence in your abilities. These skills require patience and practice, but once you’ve got them down, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment. It’s a tangible way to see your progress and know that you’re becoming a more capable candidate.

When you’re in the thick of Team Week, your ability to quickly and efficiently tie knots and lashings can make a huge difference. Your team will rely on you, and you’ll become a crucial part of the group’s success. This responsibility can be daunting, but it’s also an opportunity to shine.

The Practicality of Knot Tying and Lashing

In the field, knowing how to tie knots and lashings can be the difference between a mission’s success and failure. Whether you’re securing equipment, setting up shelters, or creating makeshift tools, these skills are indispensable. They’re not just for Selection; they’re for your entire career in Special Forces.

Take the time to understand the mechanics behind each knot. Practice them in different scenarios until they become second nature. This muscle memory will serve you well when you’re under pressure and need to act quickly.

The Importance of Continual Practice

Even if you’ve mastered these knots before, don’t let your skills get rusty. Regular practice ensures that you stay sharp. Incorporate knot tying into your regular training routine. Challenge yourself with new knots and more complex lashings. The more you practice, the more proficient you’ll become.

Knot tying and lashing are also great team-building exercises. Practice with your team members. Teach each other new techniques and share tips. This collaboration not only improves your skills but also strengthens your team’s cohesion and trust.

Preparing for the Unexpected

In SFAS and the field, you’ll often face unexpected challenges. Being proficient in knot tying and lashing prepares you for these moments. You’ll be able to adapt and find solutions quickly, which is a vital skill in Special Forces.

Don’t wait until you’re in a high-pressure situation to learn these skills. Prepare now. Practice regularly. Build your confidence and competence. When the time comes, you’ll be ready to tie those knots and lashings with ease, knowing that you’re well-prepared for any challenge that comes your way.

Note: This article, originally written by Steve Balestrieri, has been reviewed and updated by the SOFREP News Team.

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Disclaimer: SOFREP utilizes AI for image generation and article research. Occasionally, it’s like handing a chimpanzee the keys to your liquor cabinet. It’s not always perfect and if a mistake is made, we own up to it full stop. In a world where information comes at us in tidal waves, it is an important tool that helps us sift through the brass for live rounds.