What is the purpose of a catspaw knot?

The catspaw knot is specifically designed to create a temporary loop in the middle of a rope, which allows a hook or other hardware to be attached at any point along the rope's length. This feature is particularly useful in rigging applications where versatility and ease of repositioning are required. By using a catspaw knot, a rigger can attach equipment to a rope without needing to tie or untie the rope itself, providing efficiency and flexibility during lifting operations.

In contrast, the other options describe different functionalities in knot tying. Attaching two ropes together is the role of a bend or a splice, while preventing rope slippage is typically the job of a friction hitch or a stopper knot. Creating a fixed loop is the purpose of a fixed loop knot, such as a bowline. Therefore, the unique capability of the catspaw knot to facilitate the attachment of hooks or hardware at any location along the rope makes it particularly valuable in various lifting and rigging scenarios.