I like both of these knots because they are simple adaptation of something we all know ... don't we ... but it means there are two pieces of rope clipped in ... getting more important as ropes get ever thinner.
Obviously the bowline does not get locked up tight (easy to undo).... but is there a downside compared to the fig of 9 ..... which is also easier to undo than a fig of 8
anyone seen a study/report on these knots ???