What is the primary knot used when working with webbing?

The primary knot used when working with webbing is the water knot. This knot is specifically designed for joining two lengths of webbing together securely, making it an essential choice in search and rescue operations. It is formed by tying two simple overhand knots opposite each other, which creates a stronger bond that is less likely to slip or come undone under load.

The water knot's structure is ideal for webbing because it maintains the integrity of the material, ensuring that it can bear the necessary weight and withstand dynamic forces that may occur during rescue operations. Its reliability and ease of untying after bearing a load make it a preferred knot for these applications.

While other knots, such as the bowline or figure eight, are useful in various scenarios, they are not as effective as the water knot for connecting webbing. The clove hitch is mainly used for attaching a rope to a post or anchor point, making it less applicable for joining lengths of webbing in search and rescue contexts.