What is Paracaord?
Also called 550 cord or parachute cord, paracord consists of a nylon outer sheath and 7 inner strands of polyamide. The interwoven strands of nylon make up the outside of the cord to ensure it is durable, flexible, and resilient. Nylon is also very resistant against mold and rot. US Military issued paracord is specified by the MIL-C-5040H standard. The Mil-Spec specifies six types: I, IA, II, IIA, III, and IV. Type III, which Juggerknots uses and also the most common, is rated with a minimum breaking strength of 550 lbs.
Paracord is now used by both the US Military and civilians in many situations when a strong, lightweight cord is needed. The list of its uses is virtually endless. Weather you are camping, backpacking, bicycling, boating, or rock climbing, paracord can be a very useful tool and a good addition to any survival pack you may bring with you.
Because the outer nylon of the cord can be made in a wide array of colors, paracord is becoming somewhat of a fashion statement. We use these colors to make bracelets, dog collars, key chains, belts, and many more accessories that can be worn and used any time. It is survival gear and is pleasing to the eye as well!
Paracord at a Glance
Paracord Properties
- 550 lb. (248kg.) Minimum Breaking Strength
- 30% Minimum Elongation
- 225 Feet (69m) per lb. Minimum
- Approximately 1/8" Diameter
- Made in the U.S.A. by a Government Contractor
- Weather resistant (quick drying, mildew and rot resistant)
Sheath Properties
- Flexible woven nylon sheath
- 32 Strand Sheath Structure
Inner Cord/Strand Properties
- 7 inner cords rated for 35 lbs. breaking limit each
- 14 Inner Strings, Each of Which Have a Rating of About 17.5 lbs.
Paracord may be used in many ways including:
Paracord Uses
- Emergency / Survival
- Shelter / Gear Tie Downs
- Fire Starter
- Bow
- Improvised Pace Counter
- Drag Line
- Safety Line
- Turnicate to Stop Bleeding
- Boot / Shoe Laces
- Clothes Line
- Food Hanging
- Improvised M.O.L.L.E. Repairs
- Binding
- Trail Marking
- Spear Making
- Magazine Pulls
- Trip Wires
- Improvised Fishing Net
Inner Strand Uses
- Fishing Line
- Traps / Snares
- Sewing (Tent / Clothing Repair)
- Sutures
- Lashing
- Dental Floss
- Small Animal Snare Trap
- Gill Net
- Small Repairs
Paracord Braiding
- Lanyards
- Survival Bracelets
- Zipper Pulls
- Knot Making
- Hat Bands
- Belts
- Rifle Slings
- Monkey Fists
- Key Chains
- Dog Collars / Leashes
- Whips
