There are a lot of paracord manufacturers who promote their 550 paracord as being ‘mil-spec’ when it isn’t. Mil-spec means it is not only woven from 7 strands, but that each of those strands contains 3 yarns, not 2. Bengku Outdoor Mil-Spec 550 Paracord is the genuine article, however, and for that it nails down our number 2 spot, in spite of offering only 6 colors. The first parachute jumps were made more than two centuries ago ( 1) but it was not until the Second World War that parachuting really came of age. Because standard rope was cumbersome the military developed a new type of lightweight, flexible, parachute cord. Once on the ground soldiers found this same paracord could be put to myriad other uses, including building shelter, securing equipment to vehicles and even to trip up enemy combatants. A life-changing resource, the paracord (or the 550 cord because of its 550-pound breaking test) was originally used in the suspension lines of US parachutes during the Second World War as well as by astronauts on space missions.

Paracord on the other hand, is made by weaving together a number of smaller strands and then wrapping them in a sheath, much like climbing rope. Typically there are 7 – 11 of these strands, and each strand is comprised of 2 or 3 smaller strands called ‘yarns’. So you will have anywhere from 14 to 33 yarns inside a typical length of 550 paracord. Paracord can help you get a grip– Not every item in your everyday carry (EDC) comes with an ideal grip. Paracord can be wrapped around the handle of a fixed blade knife to improve your grip in any weather conditions. In the event of an emergency, the paracord can be unwound and used for any of the reasons outlined above. That means it’s great for tying down heavy loads, securing tents against howling winds and conveying supplies up and over difficult terrain. 6. Golberg 550 lb Paracord Golberg 550 lb Paracord is ideal for camping, hiking and hunting. It is tough, mold and mildew resistant and doesn’t flinch under UV light. This is genuine mil-spec 550 paracord with 7 strands of 3 yarns each and is produced in the US by certified government contractors. The difference between 2 yarn and 3 yarn paracord is not huge. But if you are going to employ paracord in a way that tests its limits, you are better off with this type of true 550 mil-spec cord. 3. Titan Paracord 620 LB SurvivorCordIf you weigh 150 pounds and you free fall even 20 feet (not at all unheard of) before the paracord catches you, your 150 pounds will generate about 1,000 pounds of pressure ( 7) on the paracord and it will snap like a twig. Also, paracord stretches further than climbing rope when weight is applied. So the paracord could still be stretching when you hit the ground. Sometimes you want something a bit more robust than standard 550 pound paracord. Paracord Planet provides it with their outstanding 750 lb Mil-Spec Paracord. This tough, durable cord features 11 strands of 3 yarns each and has a minimum failure rating of 750 pounds.

Crafted from top-notch materials, our Grogu Paracord Beads showcase intricate designs inspired by the endearing character from the iconic Star Wars series. Whether you're a devoted fan of the Mandalorian or simply captivated by the cuteness of Baby Yoda, these beads are the ideal way to express your fandom with both style and functionality. Paracord Planet is not a front for a foreign sweatshop. It has the corporate bona-fides of being a certified US government contractor and produces all its products in the US. When you add it all up and toss in the very reasonable price you get our #1 choice for best paracord. 2. Bengku Outdoor Mil-Spec 550 Paracord

Cords and Braids

Dive into our diverse collection, offering thousands of color and design combinations. The power of choice is in your hands, allowing you to personalize your paracord accessory to match your unique style. Explore our Paracording supplies UK, which include Paracording bracelets with beads, various Paracording accessories, and an array of Paracording braid patterns. No. A Bug Out Frag has a shell of 550 paracord wound in a way that resembles a hand grenade ( 9). Inside are some survival essentials including a knife, waterproof matches or lighter, a wire saw, whistle and more. Because the Bug Out Frag resembles a hand grenade, TSA will not allow it anywhere near the cabin of an airplane. And that would be true even if it did not contain a knife, incendiaries and more. The Bottom Line No. Paracord should not be used as a climbing rope. This answer might confuse some who see paracord rated to 550 or even 750 pounds and think “I don’t weigh anything close to 750 pounds.” It’s true. You don’t weigh 750 pounds; when you are standing still. But you do not use rope to protect you when you are standing still. You rope in on a mountain to provide protection in case you fall. And here is why you cannot use paracord instead of climbing rope.