He related that, according to Hal McKail, the knot was attributable to the notorious 18th-century English highwayman Dick Turpin.

Day's book, however, suggested it for use as a quick-release mooring hitch for solo sailing.

Until the knot is tightened and properly dressed, the highwayman's hitch has little holding power.

The highwayman's hitch is susceptible to capsizing when the pole is substantially larger than the rope diameter.

Alternatives to the highwayman's hitch have been devised to mitigate collapse when tied around large objects.