Tying a constrictor knot
The key to a great constrictor knot is both in the quality of cord used and the tightness of the knot itself. There are a number of variations of constrictor cord out there but the crucial element is that it has a wax coating, which allows for it to grip to itself when under tension. Also, with the addition of heat, the wax binds itself together creating an even stronger knot.
With the end of your rubber facing you, lay the constrictor cord under it, leaving a good 10-20 inches of tail. This is necessary for tightening the knot
Step 1
Pass both lengths over the rubber creating a cross. Continue the tail back under the rubber so it is next to the opposite length, ensuring the lines don't cross on the underside of the rubber
Step 2
From the tail's current position, pass it over the opposing length and then thread it under the cross formed by the lines, perpendicular to the lay of the rubber. Now neaten the knot ensuring there are no gaps between the lines. Put a small amount of tension on the knot so that it grips
Step 3
Not too tricky, ey? Now the final step for this knot is tightening. The trick here is that you cannot put too much tension on the knot. There are many ways to achieve this and in all of them you will lose a bit of excess cord. In some more than others. Here are a few ideas:
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Tie the excess tail to an immoveable object. With the rest of the cord, clamp onto it with a pair of pliers and then roll the pliers down the cord at least 7 or 8 times. This will give you the purchase to pull on the knot
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In place of the immoveable object, you can clamp the tail of the cord in a workbench vice with the same effect
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If you're feeling really strong, you can use 2 pairs of pliers in the same way as above but you better make sure you put enough tension on! Maybe try holding one pair under your feet
Once tensioned, trim the excess cord back close to the knot then, using a lighter, seal the ends of the cord, making sure not to damage the rubber