Paracord, a contraction of the “parachute cord,” is a flexible and robust type of cord initially employed in the suspension lines of World War II parachutes. With time, it has transformed into a versatile tool with both practical and creative applications.
This discussion delves into the fundamentals of paracord, highlighting its qualities and the diverse ways it can be employed.
Basics of Paracord:
1. Materials:
Paracord is typically made from nylon, which is known for its strength and durability. It is designed to be lightweight yet incredibly strong.
2. Core and Sheath:
Paracord consists of an inner core (the kern) and an outer woven sheath. The inner core provides most of the cord’s strength, while the outer sheath offers protection and durability.
3. Strength:
Paracord is known for its impressive strength-to-weight ratio. Standard 550 paracord, for example, can support up to 550 pounds (hence the name) and is the most commonly used type for a wide range of applications.
4. Varieties:
Paracord comes in various types, with the most popular being 550 paracord. Other types, such as 325 and 750 paracords, have different weight-bearing capacities.
Common Uses of Paracord:
1. Survival:
Paracord is often associated with survival and outdoor activities. Its versatility makes it a valuable tool for building shelters, creating snares for hunting, securing equipment, and even fashioning emergency tourniquets.
2. Camping and Hiking:
Campers and hikers use paracord for tasks like setting up tents, hanging food to deter animals, and repairing gear. It can also serve as a versatile clothesline.
3. Emergency Preparedness:
Paracord is a vital element in any emergency kit. Its applications include first aid, crafting improvised slings, constructing emergency shelters, or fashioning restraints when needed for survival and safety.
4. Knots and Lashings:
Paracord is often used for tying various knots and lashings, comprising the square knot, bowline, and trucker’s hitch. These knots are handy for securing loads, building structures, and performing rescue operations.
5. Jewelry and Crafts:
Crafting paracord bracelets, keychains, and lanyards have gained popularity as engaging DIY projects. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these creations offer practical functionality as a source of cordage that can be unraveled and utilized in emergency situations.
6. Outdoor Sports:
Paracord plays a crucial role in outdoor activities such as rock climbing and rappelling. It functions as a reliable backup or auxiliary cord for enhancing the safety and security of harness systems, providing peace of mind to outdoor enthusiasts.
7. Fishing:
Anglers employ paracord to handcraft various fishing gear items, including lanyards and tackle boxes. In a pinch, it can even be repurposed as an improvised fishing line, highlighting its versatility as a valuable tool for anglers.
8. Boating and Water Activities:
Paracord’s moisture-resistant properties render it an ideal choice for marine applications. It finds utility in repairing sails, fastening equipment, and serving as a reliable backup line for anchoring and buoy systems, showcasing its adaptability for water-related endeavors.
9. Home and DIY Projects:
Paracord can be handy for home repairs and DIY projects. It can be used for replacing drawstrings in clothing, creating handles on tools, or constructing custom dog leashes.
How to find the best paracord
Finding the best paracord involves considering several factors, such as its type, quality, intended use, and source. If you know where to buy paracord in Bulk, here are some steps to help you find the highest quality paracord:
1. Identify Your Purpose:
Determine what you’ll be using the paracord for. Different applications may require specific types of paracord, so understanding your needs is elemental.
2. Choose the Right Type:
Paracord comes in various types, with the most common being 550 paracord, known for its strength and versatility. Anyway, you may need a different type based on your needs, such as 325 or 750 paracord.
3. Look for Genuine Mil-Spec Cord:
If you require the highest quality, look for a mil-spec (military specification) paracord. Mil-spec paracord meets strict military standards and is known for its strength and reliability.
4. Check the Core and Sheath:
Quality paracord should have a strong inner core and a durable outer sheath. Ensure both components are made from high-quality materials. The inner strands of 550 paracord should be made of seven individual strands.
Benefits of Paracord
Here are some of the key advantages and benefits of using paracord:
1. Strength and Durability:
Paracord is celebrated for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. Its ability to bear substantial loads makes it a dependable resource for securing equipment, constructing shelters, and undertaking a myriad of tasks in outdoor adventures and emergency scenarios.
2. Versatility:
Paracord’s adaptability knows no bounds. Its inner strands can be unraveled and repurposed as fishing lines, sewing threads, or even emergency sutures, underscoring its immense value in survival contexts where resourcefulness is key.
3. Lightweight and Portable:
Paracord’s featherlight and compact nature make it an incredibly practical inclusion for outdoor expeditions, emergency kits, or backpacks. Its minimal space and weight requirements ensure that it can be carried effortlessly, ready to serve in various situations.
