What is a paracord?

Written By Ryan Law

FAQs → What is a paracord?

A paracord, also known as 550 cord or Type III parachute cord, is a type of lightweight and highly durable cord made from nylon.

It was originally designed for use in military parachutes, hence the name 'parachute' cord. The cord consists of seven internal strands wrapped together with a braided outer layer, giving it incredible strength-to-weight ratio.

Paracord has a minimum breaking strength of 550 pounds (2,495 Newtons), making it an excellent choice for outdoor and survival applications. Its uses are diverse, ranging from creating shelter and securing equipment to fashioning makeshift rope or tow lines.

Paracord is also resistant to abrasion, moisture, and mildew, making it a reliable companion in harsh environments.

Ryan Law

Ryan Law is the creator of Ash Tales and the author of the post-apocalyptic fantasy series The Rainmaker Writings.

Ryan has a 15-year long obsession with the end of the world, and has spent that time researching everything from homesteading to nuclear fallout patterns.

Ryan is a wilderness hiker and has trained with bushcraft and survival experts around the UK.

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