Why A 550 Paracord Is A Must Have In The Toolkit

By Ines Flores


One tool that is never missing in any survival tool kit is the paracord. The cord is described as a simple, practical cord that can be used by anyone at any given situation. It is also very strong and flexible so much that it has found its way into most homes. This strength comes from its versatile-filament nylon cord. It was widely used for parachutes during the WWII, hence the name. The original design consisted of seven strong nylon cords each made from strong strands that are woven together. A branded nylon wrapper then wraps the seven cords to produce a single super-strong cord that has a combined breaking force of 550 pounds. No wonder it is commonly referred to as 550 paracord.

It was first used in the construction of parachutes, back in the World War II, and is now commonly used in military applications, police, and the scout and by civilians for countless applications. Even though the civilian market is flooded with many copies, the military grade cords are distinct with a designation of MIL-C-5040 Type III. It is also rated at 550 pounds. It normally has 7 inner yarns, each with three strands.

There are no specific standards when it comes to the civilian markets; however, this is not the case with the military varieties. The military cord is distinctly marked as MIL-C-5040 Type III with a rating of 550 pounds. The military cord must have 7 inner yarns, each coming with 3 separate strands.

This cord is available in many different colors which give the buyer a wide option to choose from. The same applies for length, depending on the budget and the intended use; there is one that can fit the purpose. They can also be cut into smaller pieces. However, this requires that the cut end is either burnt or signed so that it can prevent fraying.

Both the military variety and the commercial variety come in many colors, hence there are many options depending on an individual's own preferences. In addition to colors, it comes in several lengths to choose from. One can also be cut to smaller sizes for specific purposes as demanded. However, after cutting one, the ends must be burnt to avoid fraying.

These cords have very many advantages over the ordinary ones. With a small diameter of an eighth of an inch, it has a breaking force of 550 pounds. It is therefore used for heavy load towing, and support weight of humans and even heavier objects. Its durability is also impressive and the cord is capable of resisting water, mildew and other moist conditions that quickly destroy the ordinary cords.

The other advantage is its weight. With the length of up to 225 feet, the cord weighs not more than 1 pound. As such, it can be carried easily and this explains why campers find it indispensable. In addition to this, it is strong and resistant to environmental elements like mildew, water, and sun heat. The inner strands can also be removed and used separately.

However, the inner strands can also work as fishing string, sewing, dental floss, boiled to work as emergency stitches, and for trapping-snares. Generally, this is a cord that should never miss in your toolbox, this is a tool that you will find necessary in any job you do.




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