How To Handle a Paracord

Made from nylon, paracord -- otherwise known as 550 cord or parachute cord -- was originally implemented for parachute suspension lines. Paracord is often used by military personnel for a variety of purposes. In a survival situation, paracord is a useful tool to have on hand. The cord can be used to lash together support poles for signal fires or cooking tripods, and to make small game traps or friction fires. Knowing how to properly handle and store paracord while in the wilderness is a skill all outdoor enthusiasts need to learn.

Things You'll Need

  • Knife
  • Lighter or matches
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Instructions

    • 1

      Gather together all available paracord that you have on hand, or that you've found. Untangle the paracord if necessary and lay it out flat on the ground.

    • 2

      Inspect the paracord for any damage, fraying or torn regions along its length. If the paracord is torn at any point, cut the paracord off at the tear. This way you'll create more usable lengths of cord, instead of having a lengthy damaged portion.

    • 3

      Hold a lighter under the ends of the cord. Pinch the end with your fingers to close up the end. This prevents fraying on the ends and makes the cord easier to tie or thread.

    • 4

      Find a straight stick about six to eight inches long. Strip off any bark or knots on the stick using a knife. Smooth the stick out as much as possible.

    • 5

      Set one end of the paracord onto the stick along its length. Hold this portion of cord in place with your thumb. Wrap the remaining length of the cord around the stick and the portion of cord you're holding. The idea here is to create a spool of the paracord that you can easily access in the future. Tuck the end into the spool securely.