What is the best knot for creating a closed loop?

The figure eight on a bight is an excellent choice for creating a closed loop because it is both strong and secure, making it well-suited for various applications in firefighting and rescue scenarios. This knot is tied by doubling the rope back on itself to create a loop and then tying a figure-eight knot with the two strands.

One of the key advantages of the figure eight on a bight is that it is easy to untie even after being loaded, which is vital in emergency situations where efficiency is crucial. Its stability and resistance to slipping make it a reliable option when a strong and secure loop is required.

In contrast, while the bowline also creates a closed loop, it is primarily used for connecting a loop to a fixed object and is more prone to becoming loose when not under constant tension. The double fisherman's knot is typically used to join two ropes together rather than forming a loop. The square knot is often used for tying two ends of a rope together, but it does not create a secure loop and can come undone under load, making it less suitable for scenarios where safety is a concern.