Tying knots

[.Generaal.]

Ever since I started fishing (or should I say wetting a line as there's not always fish involved) I had one knot I used to tie EVERYTHING. It's a variation of the hangman's knot. This knot has served me well over the years but I thought it time to learn to tie things "properly". I did a search and found a site with all kinds of knots and some animations to help teach you how to do them. I saw the rapala\non slip loop knot, and thought about trying these for tying on cranks etc. Here are both:

http://www.netknots.com/html/rapala_knot.html

http://www.netknots.com/html/non_slip_loop_knot.html

Looks nice BUT, everytime I tie the knot and test the knot strength, the line breaks in\on the knot. I've tested both several times and get the same result every time. I used some old line to do the tying and testing, but that shouldn't influence the knot strength that much? If the line quality is that bad shouldn't the line rather break instead of the knot? I'll test again using some new line but fear the result will be the same. Does anyone else use these knots or had a similar\different experience?

Thanks

 

[AndriesH]

Have a look at the local DIY pages for knots as well.
http://www.sealine.co.za/view_forum.php?id=44

 

[Billaridoo]

A "design" knot, in fishing line, climbing rope or any type of line will weaken the material by 5% or more(depending on the knot) at the knot if made as perfectly possible. If any part of the knot is not as intended it will weaken the line up to 25%. Add deteriating or old line and the knot will most definitely fail first as it is the weakest point in the line.
Try a section of new line, tying the knot as meticulous as possible and then test for strength.
Saw knots failing time and again while testing climbing rope, we use to use fishing line to test on small scale first. Hope it gives some insight....