Is the overhand knot load bearing?

• A. No and it should be set as close to the primary knot as possible
• B. Yes
• C. Only when used with a figure-eight
• D. It depends on rope type

Answer: (A)

This question is about what role the overhand knot plays in a rope system. The overhand is a simple stopper knot, not a load-bearing part of the main working path. Its job is to keep the rope end from slipping through a knot, device, or opening, and to provide a clear stop point. Under tension, the overhand tightens and can be hard to untie afterward, and it does not share or support the main load in the rope system. Because of that, you don’t rely on it to carry the load; you place it where it serves its stopping purpose without disturbing the main load-bearing knot.

That’s why the best practice is to set the overhand as close to the primary knot as possible—so it effectively stops any potential movement and keeps the tail from slipping through, without adding extra slack or complicating the load path. The other statements misrepresent the overhand’s role by implying it should bear load, only works with a specific other knot, or depends on rope type; those don’t align with how the overhand is typically used as a stopper.