Lucas Delgado
A chicken line, also known as a perimeter line, is a safety feature on rafts that allows people to hold on for balance or to help them get back into the raft. The line is tied to the front D-ring using a re-threaded figure-8 or bowline knot. The line is then run to the first D-ring and tied with a clove hitch, and this process is repeated for each D-ring. Finally, the line is secured at the end of the boat with the correct tension and any extra rope is cut off, leaving a small tail to prevent slippage.
Characteristics and Values of tying a chicken line on a raft
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Safety feature that allows people to hold on for balance or when re-entering the raft |
| When to tie | Before fully inflating the raft |
| Starting knot | Re-threaded figure-8 or bowline |
| Tension | Check before fully inflating the boat |
| Final knot | Re-threaded figure 8 or bowline |
| Rope type | Thick rope with high working load limits and resistance to rot and elongation |
| Rope length | Length of raft x 3 + width x 2 (with knots in each D-ring) or Length x 2 + width x 2 (without knots) |
| Rope maintenance | Cut off excess, melt the end with a lighter to prevent fraying |
| Environmental considerations | Use a sand stake and mallet instead of tying off to vegetation |
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What You'll Learn
The importance of a chicken line/perimeter line
The chicken line, also known as the perimeter line, is an important safety feature for rafts. It is a utility line strung between two or more d-rings around the perimeter of the raft. The line serves multiple purposes and is particularly useful for rafters who are inexperienced or find themselves in whitewater rapids.
Firstly, the chicken line provides a secure handhold for rafters to stabilise themselves when climbing into the raft or when trying to get stable on the high side, preventing them from falling out. This is especially important in challenging conditions, such as whitewater rapids, where the risk of falling out is higher. Additionally, if a rafter does fall out, the line can be used as a ladder system to help them remount the raft and prevent them from being flushed out.
Secondly, the line can be used in rescue situations. If a rafter falls into the water, they can hold onto the line to stay connected to the boat, making it easier for them to be pulled back in. This is particularly useful in rescue scenarios where a swimmer needs to be brought back into the raft.
Thirdly, the chicken line can be used to secure gear and dry bags with locking carabiners. This ensures that equipment remains safely attached to the raft, even in turbulent conditions.
Finally, the line can be used to carry, portage, or hoist the raft, particularly if the raft does not have handles. This makes it easier to transport the raft to and from the water.
While some rafters express concerns about the potential for rope entrapment, others argue that the benefits of having a chicken line outweigh this risk. It is important to keep the line tight at all times to minimise the risk of entrapment and ensure the line's effectiveness.
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How to tie a chicken line to D-rings
A chicken line, or perimeter line, is a key safety feature that allows people to hold on for balance or use it when re-entering a raft. It is important to know how to tie a chicken line to D-rings safely and securely.
Firstly, start by partially inflating the raft to about half pressure, leaving room for it to expand. Then, tie the line to the front D-ring, using a re-threaded figure-8 or bowline knot. These knots are ideal as they hold up well over time and can be easily adjusted or replaced.
Next, take the line and run it to the first D-ring, keeping it relatively straight and semi-taught. Check the length, and then tie a clove hitch or an overhand knot into the D-ring. Repeat this step for each subsequent D-ring. Remember to stop and check the tension of the lines before fully inflating the raft. Deflate the raft slightly if you need to adjust the tension.
Once you have tied off all the knots and are happy with the tension, secure the line at the end of the boat with another re-threaded figure-8 or bowline knot. Cut any excess rope, leaving a few inches of tail to allow for any slippage over time. Use a lighter to melt away any frayed sections and ensure the integrity of your chicken line setup.
Now you have a safe and secure chicken line tied to the D-rings of your raft, providing a universal grab point for balance and re-entry.
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The best knots to use
When setting up a chicken line, also known as a perimeter line, on a raft, it is important to use the right kind of rope and the right kind of knot. The bowline knot is ideal for attaching a line to your raft. The knot holds up better over time than half-hitches, and even after being wet and dry with force applied to it many times, the knot can be undone with some work. The quick-release bowline can be undone much more quickly.
The bowline knot is also used to secure a bow line on a raft or cataraft. The rope is threaded through the top D-ring, down through the bottom D-ring, and secured with a bowline knot. The bow line is used to tie the raft to shore. To do this, pull a bit of rope around a tree or rock and then use two or three half-hitches with a 3+ inch tail. Half-hitches are nice because they are easy for anyone to untie quickly.
When setting up the perimeter line, start by partially inflating the raft to about half pressure. Tie the line to the lead (front) D-ring using a re-threaded figure-8 or bowline knot. Take the line and run it to the first D-ring in a pretty straight semi-taut line. Tie a clove hitch (or an overhand knot or other varieties if preferred) into the D-ring. Repeat this step on the next D-ring. Now, fully inflate the boat and check how tight the lines are. If you are happy with the tension, deflate the boat to its previous level and continue. Once you have run the line around the boat and tied off all the knots, secure the line at the end of the boat with the correct tension using a re-threaded figure 8 or bowline knot.
The type of rope used for the perimeter line is also important. Thick rope has the advantage of high working load limits and a lot of surface area for swimmers to grab onto. Ropes designed for water are resistant to rot and elongation. However, in a paddle raft, the rope may be abrasive if you are taking strong strokes close to the boat. Tubular webbing is favoured by river guides as it has a high working load limit and is softer on the hands than rope. However, it tends to naturally stretch when it gets wet.
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The pros and cons of rope vs webbing
When it comes to tying a chicken line on a raft, there are two main options: rope and webbing. Both have their own unique pros and cons, and the choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and specific use cases. Here is a detailed breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages of using rope vs webbing for a chicken line on a raft:
Rope
- Pros: Rope is generally easier to hold onto than braided rope, especially when it comes to braided rope. It is also less susceptible to sun damage when compared to webbing, making it a good option for extended periods outdoors. Additionally, rope is easier to tie knots with when setting up the raft and when adjusting or replacing the chicken line.
- Cons: One of the main disadvantages of rope is its dynamic nature, which means it will stretch over time. This can be a problem when re-entering the raft, especially if knots are not tied in every D-ring. Rope can also be more challenging to handle, with more components to keep track of, and it may not be as convenient to set up as webbing.
Webbing
- Pros: Webbing is significantly cheaper per foot than rope, making it a more cost-effective option. It is also easier to work with, as it requires fewer pieces and is generally more convenient to set up. Webbing is also easier on trees, reducing potential damage, and it can be easier to untie or unwrap after a night of cold rain.
- Cons: The flat geometry of webbing limits the types of knots that can be tied with it. Webbing is also harder to hold onto and is generally more susceptible to sun damage when compared to rope.
Ultimately, the choice between rope and webbing for a chicken line on a raft depends on specific needs and preferences. Both options have their strengths and weaknesses, and it is essential to consider factors such as cost, ease of use, durability, and environmental impact when making a decision.
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Safety considerations
The primary safety feature of a chicken line is to provide a stable handhold for individuals to maintain their balance in rapids or to assist them in re-entering the raft after falling out. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the chicken line is securely tied to the raft and can withstand the force of someone pulling on it.
To begin, partially inflate the raft to about half pressure, allowing room for expansion during the process. This prevents the raft from becoming overinflated and tense after the chicken line is secured. Next, tie the line securely to the lead (front) D-ring using a re-threaded figure-8 or bowline knot. These knots are recommended for their strength and security.
As you run the line along the D-rings, it is essential to tie a knot at each D-ring to reduce potential slack in the system. This minimises entrapment hazards for individuals and helps navigate external river hazards. By creating tension in the line, individuals who have fallen out can more easily pull themselves back into the raft unassisted.
After wrapping the line around the raft and securing all the knots, ensure the final section has the correct tension before tying off with another re-threaded figure-8 or bowline knot. Trim any excess rope, leaving about 4 to 6 inches to account for potential knot slippage. Finally, use a lighter to melt away any frayed sections, ensuring the integrity of your chicken line setup.
By following these steps and paying attention to key considerations, you can ensure a safe and secure chicken line setup on your raft.
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Frequently asked questions
A chicken line, also known as a perimeter line, is a safety feature that allows people to hold on to it for balance or to help them get back into the raft.
Thick rope is a popular option for chicken lines as it has a high working load limit and provides a lot of surface area for swimmers to grab on to. Tubular webbing is another option that is softer on the hands and has great rot and UV resistance, but it tends to stretch when wet.
First, partially inflate the raft to about half pressure. Tie the line to the front D-ring using a re-threaded figure-8 or bowline knot. Run the line to the next D-ring in a straight semi-taught line and tie a clove hitch into the D-ring. Repeat this step for all the D-rings. Fully inflate the raft to check the tension of the lines. If you are happy with the tension, deflate the raft and continue running the line around the boat. Tie off all the knots and secure the line at the end of the boat with the correct tension. Cut any excess rope, leaving a 4"-6" tail, and use a lighter to melt away any frayed sections.
The bowline knot is ideal for attaching a line to your raft as it holds up better over time and can be easily undone. The clove hitch is also commonly used when running the line between D-rings. When tying the raft to shore, use two or three half hitches with a 3+ inch tail.
