What Kind of Knot Is Used for Barrel Reins?

Barrel racers knot their reins to promote consistency in hand placement as the rider and horse turn the three barrels at top speed. It's easy to grip the knot and turn the horse just so for a perfect pocket, reducing time around the barrel and increasing overall speed. If you don't have knots on your barrel racing reins, you should add them.

  1. The Knot

    • For all intents and purposes, the knot used for barrel racing reins is called an overhand knot. The simple knot takes seconds to make after you get the hang of it. Some manufacturers of barrel racing reins may use other names for it.

    Making the Knot

    • The overhand knot is simple. Create a loop where you want the knot and slide a rein end through it. If you have leather reins, soak them first in oil, such as vegetable oil until flexible. Clean with saddle soap before knotting. The oil will darken the rein color. Use a lighter oil, such as canola oil, for light-colored reins to minimize the darkening.

    Placing the Knot

    • Where you put the knot is as important as having the knot. To decide out where to place the knot, saddle up the horse, mount it and let the reins hang loosely around his neck. Reach down and grab the rein on the left side. Pull back until you see the eye of the horse. Mark your hand placement with a marker or repeat on the other side. Put a knot at each marker and about 5 inches further down the reins on each side.

    Preknotted Reins

    • You can purchase reins knotted as part of the design. There is nothing wrong with these. The knots work as intended. Depending on the exact material, you may still struggle with adding your own knots to reins made of other materials. Most are made of braided nylon or nylon. These won't be customized to you and your horse. Preknotted reins are a viable option for many barrel racers and come in a variety of colors.