The humble knot found at the scene of the crime could lead you to the offender. Some knots are unique to fishermen, others to sailors, climbers or campers. This book describes a system for identifying knots found at the scenes of crime, a method that has been adopted by other forensic scientists. Snippets of knot lore and descriptions of cases solved through knot identification are included in this book together with clear diagrams of common (and some not-so-common) knots. (OUT OF PRINT)

This book describes nearly 4,000 different knots, including splices, hitches, hooks, beckets, toggles and sinnets. It is attractively produced and richly illustrated with drawings of knots. The author describes knots used in over ninety occupations, from the most common knot-using occupation of sailor, through the cord knots and tassels of a Chinese priest. Ashley also includes a bibliography, a glossary and an index. The Ashley Book of Knots is a definitive catalogue of knotting expertise.

The purpose of this book is to raise awareness of knots as a useful source of forensic information and describe standards for their investigation. The first two chapters contain background information about knots and how to analyse them. Chapters three to five focus on the analysis of knots, covering the preservation of evidence, observation of details and forensic methods. Chapter six looks at court testimony while the final chapter discusses current research results and the future of the field. This book is richly illustrated with diagrams of knots, and the author uses examples from actual cases to demonstrate the value of knots to a forensic scientist. The book includes a glossary and an extensive bibliography, and is aimed at forensic investigators, whether experienced or in training.