The Paracord Platoon Blog
What is Paracord?
Parachute cord (also paracord or 550 cord when referring to type-III paracord) is a lightweight nylon kernmantle rope originally used in the suspension lines of parachutes. It was originally used in the suspension lines of U.S. parachutes during World War II. When Soldiers landed in the battle fields, they would cut the paracord off their parachutes and pack it up for later use. This particular cord would come in handy for the Soldiers during battle, whether it was used to strap gear to harnesses, build shelters, or sewing string, the cord could be used in endless ways. This cord is useful for many other tasks and is now used as a general purpose utility cord by both military personnel and civilians.
What can I use paracord for?
The uses of paracord are almost endless. You can use paracord out of the box as a super strong single cord, but you can also get multiple uses from that same cord by using the inner strands, also know as the “guts”, for lighter tasks. Using paracord for wilderness survival is quite common. You can use the inner strands for doing things like making fishing lines, making small game traps, even holding branches together to hold together a shelter. Don't forget the outer shell of the cord. The outer shell isn’t useless after you take out the inner strands. You can use it for things like bootlaces or securing a knife to a stick to make a spear.
Why do people make things out of paracord?
Many hikers and outdoor sports enthusiasts make items out of paracord because it is a super easy way to have cord on you without it getting in the way. When paracord is woven into a compact bracelet, keychain, etc., it allows someone to be able to unravel the paracord item in the field if needed.
Why are there numbers after paracord?
If their is a number associated with a type of paracord such as "550", it means that the paracord has a minimum breaking point of 550 pounds. It is as simple as that.