Paracord: What is it
and why do I need it?

Paracord: What is it and why do I need it?

Paracord should be a staple in your survival supplies. Just having a roll of it is prudent — just tuck it into your bug-out-bag.

But having it handy, woven into a bracelet, keychain, belt, or lanyard can be a lifesaver. Wear it on your wrist in bright colors and there will be no digging through a B.O.B. when an emergency arises.

I think wearing a survival bracelet is stylish, don't you? 

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Here's mine. I had this one custom made for me (my choice of colors). I just gave them my wrist measurement, and they made this bracelet - Baby Cobra style with a side-release buckle.

If you're an outdoor enthusiast, it's always good to have plenty of paracord with you in case of an emergency.

Wearing a bracelet, belt, or key ring made of paracord ensures you will have plenty of cord and it can be quickly unraveled when you need it.

What is Paracord?

Paracord (also known as parachute cord) is durable nylon rope that can be tied into many configurations, making it easy to use and have handy in emergencies because you can simply unwind the strong cord and use it to bind, haul or tie anything you wish.

It was originally used for parachutes, but it was quickly recognized as a useful cord for other things such as, tent ties, fishing line, pack bindings, dog leashes or collars. It's quick-drying, rot- and mildew-resistant, soft, lightweight, and strong.

Paracord is not just any nylon cord. For maximum usage, make sure it's military type 550 (MIL-C-5040H Type III). Why? Because it has inner strands, therefore, more uses.

Paracord Uses

Genuine military-type paracord has 7 inner strands and each of those strands consists of 3 inner strands (the "guts"). That means that a bracelet containing 10 feet of cord, when unwound, can become 200 feet of strong cord. The "550" paracord means it has a minimum breaking strength of 550 lbs.

Paracord can be used for:

  • building shelters
  • making traps
  • fishing lines
  • nets
  • sewing repairs
  • tow lines
  • tying down tents
  • strapping gear to a backpack
  • making a bow and drill for fire starting
  • knotting/weaving into bags to contain sleeping bags or washing dishes in a stream.

Learn How To Make Your Own

Buy it in bulk and add it to a carabiner (as pictured left) for easy storage in your disaster kits and to unroll when needed.


Available in all lengths and colors:

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