When you need to quickly haul a pack or small haulbag, instead of doing the forearm-flaming hand-over-hand haul, tie a Garta Hart knot in the haul line. The Garta Hart is a one-directional, self-locking knot that lets you haul, but relax your grip when you tire. It will also prevent your accidentally dropping the pack.

To tie, simply rig the rope through two carabiners clipped to an anchor sling. Ideally, use identical oval carabiners, which will allow the smoothest operation. To haul the pack, simultaneously pull up on the pack side of the haul rope and down on the other side of the rope (figure 1). Locking the knot is simple: just let go.

Harrison Weber, Phoenix, AZ