Tag Archives: jesses

Falconry Braiding Craft

Falconry Braiding Craft

I’ve been experimenting with different knotting techniques, working towards a much more appealing leash-jess system.  This setup seems to accomplish the aesthetics I was going for, I’ll have to use it for a while to work out the functionality aspect.  I’ve been working on a braided leash system from some knotting patterns and I’ve come up with this formula (starting in upper left of the picture, moving clockwise):

Formula:

  •     Spring Clip End
  •     Double Back-Braided loop
  •     Double Turks head knot (yellow)
  •     Single Turks head knot (pink)
  •     Six-strand braid pattern using masonry nylon
  •     Three-strand braided loop (seamless)
  •     #5 sampo swivel
  •     Split Ring
  •     Small Clip
  •     1/4 inch Grommets for the Roo Anklets
  •     Jesses are 4-strand braid, masonry nylon
  •     Double Wall-and-Crown knot, melted
  •     4-Strand back-braided loop end

Some Additional Caveats:

  •     Falconry leash intended for Glove use only (not tethered OR unattended)
  •     Looped Jesses would be MEWS Jesses only (not hunting)
  •     Leash can be assembled / disassembled from the hardware
  •     Intended use for medium size raptors (coopers, harris, merlin) NOT Red-Tails

Any additional sage advice would be welcomed.  I’ve yet to use this and want to make sure I’ve got everything hardened for regular use.  I like the fact that it’s light and easy to use. The Jess clip on the end is strong and machined aluminum (it would take more than keratin to bust it).  Please leave a comment!

 

UPDATE:

As a result of several useful comments I’ve amended this leash setup to correct some of the potential flaws as commented on by several other falconers. Specifically:

  • The Spring Clip will be replaced with a Snap Shackle or a Locking Carabiner.
  • The Loop-End connection to the swivel will be moved down around the ring to free up the swivel movement.
  • The second set of jesses will have Crown Sinnet Rose knots for the end going through the anklets.

Thanks to all who provided sage advice for the improvement of this leash setup.