Vertical caving terminology and methods > Knots > Knot construction and behaviour
Pushing the strands of a knot in such a way that the knot loosens slightly, so that it can then be untied. Most knots used in SRT are intentionally relatively easy to break, with some having a specific part of the knot that can easily be pushed to break it, such as the Alpine butterfly knot. Some are easier to untie if they are dressed correctly, and some are easier to untie if they are tied with specific strands being loaded, such as the figure of 8 on a bight. Others may need to be worked by repeatedly pushing several parts of the knot until it finally breaks, such as the double fisherman's knot. A knot may be easier to untie if it is soaked in water for a few minutes. Very few knots need tools to untie them, and sticking a screwdriver between the strands or hitting the knot with a hammer should be considered absolutely last resorts, as they will probably damage the rope.
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