Grappling hook

This article is about the tool. For the martial arts term, see Hooks (grappling). For the video game, see Grappling Hook (video game).

Grappling hook / Grapnel
  • Upper left: Sketch of a boarding grapnel
  • Upper right: Soldier swinging grappling hook
  • Lower left: Six-hooked boarding grapnel
  • Lower right: Feudal Japanese grappling hook: kaginawa

A grappling hook, or grapnel, is a drag-looking device intended for grappling onto something. It typically has multiple hooks (known as claws or flukes) attached to a rope or cable; it is thrown, dropped, sunk, projected, or fastened directly by hand to where at least one hook may catch and hold on to objects. Generally, grappling hooks are used to temporarily secure one end of a rope. They may also be used to dredge for submerged objects.

The device was invented by the Romans in approximately 260 BC. The grappling hook was originally used in naval warfare to catch ship rigging so that it could be boarded.

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