Factors affecting the outcome:
(1) whether or not a drop is used
(2) the distance of drop for the person's weight
(3) the location of the knot on the person's neck
(4) quality of the hanging material
(5) preparation of the person
A drop is more likely to result in a high cervical fracture with loss of consciousness. Too short a drop and the person may remain conscious. Too long a drop and the person may be decapitated by the force.
The knot should be placed behind the left ear (at the angle of the jaw) or under the chin (submental) to impart the maximum force on the C1-C2 vertebrae.
The hanging material should:
(1) be sturdy enough to bear the weight of the person and to withstand the jerk at the end of a drop
(2) not stretch during use
(3) move smoothly through the slip knot
Hangmen will prestretch the rope and keep them well-oiled.
A person being hung will usually have the hands and feet bound to minimize kicking and struggling. A hood is placed so the executioners do not need to watch the person's agony (if any).
When Hitler hung his generals after the failed assassination attempt, every attempt was made to make the hanging as slow an agonizing as possible. Each person was suspended the person from a hook and thin wire was used for the noose. Hoods were not used and the entire process captured on film so Hitler could enjoy the suffering.
