What knot is used to fasten a rope to a fixed object such as a post or railing?

The knot used to fasten a rope to a fixed object such as a post or railing is the clove hitch. This knot is particularly effective for securing a rope around a cylindrical object, allowing for easy tightening and adjusting as needed. It consists of two loops that encircle the object and can be quickly tied and untied, making it convenient for situations where ropes need to be secured in a variety of environments.

One of the key attributes of the clove hitch is its ability to hold firmly under tension, which is essential when dealing with loads or securing objects. It is commonly used in various applications, from sailing and climbing to everyday tasks where securing a line to a post is required.

The other options represent different knots, each serving specific purposes, but they do not fulfill the requirement of fastening a rope to a fixed object as effectively as the clove hitch does. For instance, a sheet bend is primarily designed for joining two ropes of different sizes, a catspaw is used to attach a rope to a hook without tying a knot, and a sheepshank is intended for shortening a rope or taking up slack rather than securing it to a fixed point.