I would like to introduce a tool that provides convenience in tightening a rope. I once have a small Figure 9 rope tightener. And I have decided to complete my inventory by getting the large version as well. I find this simple and light device very helpful especially in camping where I need to tie a rope over tree trunks to provide a line for the flysheet. While it is usual to tie the common knots and hitches, this Figure 9 device does it quicker and uses less length of rope. Furthermore, it doesn't add a lot of weight since it is made of aluminium.
![](https://www.jimmychew.com/Private-Collection/Figure-9-by-Nite-Ize/i-XG2jMKD/0/X2/PC081121-X2.jpg)
The rope is secured using the Fixed End System (as opposed to Loop System) on the Figure 9 rope tightener. Fixed End System is appropriate for setting up a rope for flysheet.
As can be seen here, the standing end rests freely on the last prong and the inward-pointing notches keep the rope secured. If this part is loosened, the whole rope goes loose; so it is better to make another loop and thereafter tie a simple overhand knot to prevent the rope from unravel.
It is very easy to use... a couple of swings and pulls, the rope is quickly tightened. Less time is spent as compared to tying the conventional knots.
This small version can bear a load up to 22.5kg, which is about the weight of a moderate heavy backpack so you can imagine it is quite strong. Rope diameters range from 2mm till 5mm.
Important: They are not for use in climbing.
The other end of the rope is secured with the Bowline knot, a proper climbing knot.
The Bowline knot finished with a simple overhand knot to tidy up the excess rope.
![](https://www.jimmychew.com/Private-Collection/Figure-9-by-Nite-Ize/i-P8pfwNp/0/X2/PC081136-X2.jpg)
The question arises as to whether 'slippery' raffia strings can be used. The answer is YES. Again, for prevention of accidental string unravel, it is advisable to loop over a couple of times before finishing with an overhand knot.
This just to contrast the small version with the large one which was bought recently. I hanged my small folding knife nearby. The large version (also aluminium) bears a load up to 67.5kg with rope diameter support from 3mm until 9mm.
![](https://www.jimmychew.com/Private-Collection/Figure-9-by-Nite-Ize/i-zL3xX8w/0/X2/PC081134-X2.jpg)
This is the S-Biner (#4), also by Nite Ize. It supports a maximum load of 33kg. Here, I used it to hang my backpack. In camping, I sometimes hang my backpack (with the backpack cover over it) on the tree.
Important: This device is not for climbing.
![](https://www.jimmychew.com/Private-Collection/Figure-9-by-Nite-Ize/i-tDNN5mM/0/X2/PC081137-X2.jpg)
An illustration of their sizes with a Malaysian 50 sen coin for scale and comparison.
![](https://www.jimmychew.com/Private-Collection/Figure-9-by-Nite-Ize/i-jBxsfwF/0/X2/PC081138-X2.jpg)
Instruction leaflet on both the Loop System and Fixed End System. To see a video presentation on how to use the Figure 9 rope tightener, go to:http://www.gemplers.com/video/figure9. The demonstration is presented by the President of the company that produces the Figure 9, Nite Ize, Inc.
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