Uses for 550 Paracord

Virtually any list of survival gear is likely to mention 550 paracord. Originally designed for paratroopers, paracord is a kernmantle rope: a braided sheath over a bundle of seven inner cords. This mantle makes paracord very resistant to abrasion. 550 paracord is rated for 550 pounds: 300 pounds for the sheath and 35 pounds for each strand. The cords can be removed from the sheath and divided into two strands if finer string is needed.

  1. Lanyards, Belts and Wristbands

    • Paracord can be braided and knotted into chunky, striking belts, cuffs and lanyards. In place of a buckle, a plastic clip or metal carbine can be added. As well as being hard-wearing and good-looking, these items have a further practical purpose. In a survival situation they can be unknotted and their paracord used.

    Shoe and Bootlaces

    • At 1/8 of an inch in diameter, 550 paracord is narrow enough to be used to lace up boots and shoes if the holes are large enough. It is very tough and resists breaking. Like paracord belts and wristbands, paracord laces can be removed and used wherever a shorter length of rope is required. The shoelaces can be replaced with a single cord from the rope's core.

    Constructing Shelters

    • Paracord can be very useful in constructing temporary shelters. A length of paracord can be tied between two trees and a tarpaulin or similar waterproof sheeting thrown over it; the edges of the tarp can then be secured with rocks, or with pegs and guy-ropes made from the inner core strands.

    Securing Luggage

    • A length of paracord is invaluable for securing luggage to a roof rack or for tying items such as bedrolls onto the top or bottom of a rucksack. Paracord is light as well as strong so it adds little to the weight of a pack. Smaller core strands can be used to secure small items that might get lost inside the pack to something larger and easier to find.

    Fishing Line

    • Fishing line can be made from 550 paracord in two ways. The central cords can be split into two strings, which are thin enough fishing. A finer thread can be prepared by unraveling the braided mantel and teasing out the fibers from it. If the rope is of a neutral color, these fine fibers are almost invisible in the water.

    Dental Floss

    • Oral hygiene might be the last thing on a stranded hiker's mind. It's a good idea to keep teeth clean, however, as infected gums are unpleasant to cope with when you're on a remote camp miles from anywhere. The fine strands obtained by unraveling the mantle of a clean piece of paracord make acceptable dental floss.