What Is Paracord? Strength, Specs, and 20+ Survival Uses

What Is Paracord?

Paracord is short for “parachute cord.” It was first used during World War II by the military to help soldiers with parachutes. Over time, people realized just how useful this strong, lightweight cord could be—and now it’s popular for survival kits, camping, crafting, and even everyday use.

What Is Paracord Made Of?

Paracord is a nylon rope made up of an outer shell (called the sheath) and several inner threads (called strands). These inner strands can be taken out and used on their own if needed.

The most common type is Type III 550 paracord. Here’s what that means:

• 550 means it can hold up to 550 pounds before breaking.
• It usually has 7 inner strands.
• It’s about 1/8 of an inch thick.
• It’s made of 100% nylon, which makes it strong, stretchy, and weather-resistant.

Why Paracord Is So Great

Paracord is awesome because:

• It’s super strong for its size and weight.
• It’s light and easy to carry.
• It can be used in wet or dry conditions.
• It lasts a long time and won’t rot or mildew easily.
• It can be used in many different ways.

What Can You Use Paracord For?

There are hundreds of uses for paracord! Here are just a few:

• Tie things down to a truck or roof rack.
• Make a shelter by tying tarps or branches together.
• Hang food up high to keep it away from animals.
• Fix gear like broken backpack straps or shoelaces.
• Make tools like fishing lines, snares, or bow drills (with the inner strands).
• First aid, like making a tourniquet or sling.
• Crafts, like bracelets, keychains, dog collars, or belts.
• Emergency repairs for clothing, tents, or equipment.
• Fire starter, when combined with flammable material.
• Pull things, like using it to drag firewood or gear.

• Make a Clothesline, stretch it between two trees or posts to hang wet clothes or towels while camping or during a power outage.

• Create a Bowstring, in a survival situation, you can use paracord to string a DIY bow for hunting or defense.

• Make a Handle Wrap, wrap paracord around handles (like knives, axes, or buckets) to improve grip and comfort.

• DIY Dog Leash or Collar, braid a strong and reliable leash or collar for your dog using paracord—custom length and color!

• Zipper Pulls, cut and tie short sections to use as zipper pulls for bags, jackets, or tents—easier to grab with gloves.

• Trap or Snare Cordage, use the inner strands to build animal snares for survival hunting or pest control.

• Improvised Crampons or Boot Ties, in icy conditions, you can use paracord to tie branches or metal pieces under your boots for extra grip.

• Make a Fishing Net, weave the inner strands into a small net for catching fish or scooping debris.

• Emergency Stretcher or Drag Line, tie sturdy sticks together to make a stretcher, or use paracord to drag someone or something to safety.

• Secure a Splint or Bandage, if you need to keep a broken bone or injury stable, paracord can help secure a splint in place.

Easy to Buy and Stock Up

One of the best things about paracord is that it’s cheap. You can buy it in bulk online or at stores like Walmart, Home Depot, or sporting goods stores. Many people buy 100-foot rolls or even more and keep them in their bug-out bags, cars, and toolboxes. It takes up very little space and could be a real lifesaver. I can’t count how many times I’ve needed some cordage and paracord saved the day.

Watch Out for Fake Paracord

Not all paracord is real! Fake paracord might look the same, but it’s usually made with weak materials like polyester or doesn’t have the proper number of inner strands. This kind of paracord can break easily or fail when you need it most. Fake paracord is widely labeled as “paracord.”

Here are a few tips to make sure you get the real stuff:

• Look for “Type III 550” or “mil-spec” on the label.
• Make sure it has 7 inner strands (or 11 if it’s Type IV).
• Try to buy from reputable brands.
• Cut the end—if it looks cheap, flat, or missing strands inside, it’s probably fake.

Final Thoughts

Paracord is one of the most useful tools you can keep around your house, your car, or in your emergency supplies. It’s strong, light, and can help in all kinds of situations. Best of all, it doesn’t cost much, so you can stock up now without breaking the bank.

Just remember to check that it’s the real thing, and you’ll be ready for whatever life throws your way!

Take care all –

Rourke