Best Paracord for Survival: The Ultimate Paracord Guide

Best Paracord for Survival

Paracord, also known as parachute cord, was essentially designed for the suspension of lines in parachutes. Today, it can be used in a survival situation to perform numerous tasks.

Are you planning for an outdoor activity? It is one of the essential tools you would not want to miss in your bag pack. It can be used differently while faced with a survival situation, such as building shelter while camping, starting a fire, hunting, fishing, and climbing.

However, be careful with unscrupulous sellers who might sell a regular nylon rope to you, which is no match for the military paracord. A legitimate paracord suitable for your survival situation should have a braided sheath and a varying number of interwoven strands within it.

With numerous paracord types, most of which are mutations, it can be challenging to find the right one. However, this article is designed to offer information based on paracord reviews relating to the best paracord brand, features, benefits, and how to tie these cords.

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Military-Grade Paracord

Cold Zero 750LB Paracord/Parachute Cord – Authentic Mil-Spec Type IV – Made in USA – Certified Military Grade (Mil-C-5040H TIV)

• GENUINE MIL-SPEC PARACORD…AT AN INCREDIBLE VALUE. COLD ZERO Tactical Paracord is 100% MADE IN USA by a Department of Defense Certified Manufacturer. This is the exact same Paracord / Parachute Cord that is used by the US Military. Perfect for all outdoors, camping, hunting, survival & prepper enthusiasts. The applications are endless. Throw a spool in the garage and a few coils in your backpack or truck and we guarantee it will prove useful.
• **NO MORE TANGLED MESS. SAY GOODBYE TO LOOSE PARACORD IN A BAG. With COLD ZERO Tactical Paracord you no longer need to coil your own cord by hand. All our Mil-Spec Paracord is packaged for convenience & according to length. Our 50ft & 100ft lengths come wound on a reusable winder, 200ft lengths are wound on a tube, and 1000ft lengths come wound on a spool. 1000’ Spools may come in up-to 2 non-spliced lengths. FREE COLD ZERO STICKER with every purchase!
• CUSTOMER RAVES “Definitely 1st Grade Mil-Spec Paracord. Better price than other options and it came on a reusable winder and free COLD ZERO sticker! Cannot beat that.”
• NOTHING BEATS THE REAL THING. COLD ZERO 750LB Type IV Paracord is genuine Mil-Spec Paracord with an abrasion resistant 3-Ply sleeve and 11 3-ply Inner Strands which together create an extra 200LBS of breaking strength compared to 550 Paracord. Commercial grade paracord is made with raw materials in both the sleeve and core that are far cheaper and will not withstand the same wear as Mil-Spec (5040H).
• BUY TODAY RISK FREE. We are extremely confident you will love our Paracord but if something is not as you thought it would be please reach out directly and we will either refund or replace your produ

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Are you planning on buying a paracord for your outdoor adventure, and you are not sure how to choose the right one?  You are going to need the best paracord for that. This section gives you tips on what to look for.

Generally, the quality of the best paracord should match military grade.

• Single color corded strands: The original military paracord manufacturer used single color to distinguish themselves from other manufacturers.

• The number of strands in the filament: Today, numerous manufacturers produce paracords that match military quality with different colors. As such, pay close attention to the number of strands each filament contains. For 550 cords, the filament should contain about 7 to 9 strands, and each of them comprises three twisted strands.

• Mil-Spec on the packaging: Mil-C-5040H is a military specification defining paracord requirements. If it is missing, the paracord is fake and will not be used when faced with a survival scenario.

• Nylon material: Most paracords' sheath and filaments are made of nylon. This means they are elastic, making them suitable for various activities such as fishing.

• Flexibility: Paracords are designed to be used for different purposes, something standard nylon cannot do. The filaments are not tied together, and therefore a single strand can be pulled out to perform a specific function like fishing or lighting a fire.

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Top Five Best Paracords

For survival having high quality and durability is of paramount importance. To ease your search, I have compiled a list of the best paracord for your outdoor adventures.

1. Tough grid 750lb paracord

Are you searching for a multitasking paracord? Toughgrid 750lb is your best choice. It can hold up to 200lbs weight in motion or static. Thus, if you want to use it for adventure and dangerous sports, go for the tough grid.

It is made of tough nylon threads capable of withstanding harsh physical challenges and pressure. It is woven with more than ten strands from inside and similar from the outside.

This characteristic makes it durable and comfortable to the touch. It is capable of stretching up to 20% of the normal size.

Based on paracord reviews, it has five stars making it number one among others.

Pros

• Waterproof

• Non-inflammatory to the skin

• Excellent for parachuting and tent set

• It is firm and sturdy

Con

• Hefty as it is made of many threads

2. Titan military 550 paracord

It is specifically designed for military purposes. It is made up of four different components, which increases its durability. Its elasticity and flexibility allow users to diversify and use it for other purposes such as survival.

It comprises a single transparent 25lb fishing line, about 30 AWG metallic alloys, and is waterproof. Therefore, it is suitable for various purposes such as camping, lighting a fire, hunting, and fishing, among other survival activities.

Pros

• Extensively long

• Waterproof

• High-functioning

Cons

• It has limited length options

3. Paracord 550 type III

It is made of durable material assuring safety and reusability. It is 100% with seven inner strands. It is soft to the hand and easy to handle.

It is resistant to water, solar radiation, or rust thus, increasing its durability. Also, there are numerous lengths to choose from.

Pros

• Excellent for climbing

• Numerous lengths to choose from

• All-weather resistant

Con

• The number of strands varies

4. 5col 550 type III nylon paracord

You might want to check this one if you are searching for a firmer product. It is designed to be long-lasting for military purposes. It contains twice as much thread as a regular four-strand cord.

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More so, it can stretch up to 25% of its initial footage while still maintaining its firmness.

Pros

• Waterproof

• It is flexible and stretchy

• It is fireproof

Con

• It is somehow rough to the touch

5. X-cords paracord

It is an 850 multipurpose paracord consisting of eight inner strands to make it extremely durable. It is suitable for a dangerous sport such as rock climbing. It comes with a nice handle to carry, making it a more suitable choice for your survival.

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Pros

• Mold and rust-resistant

• It comes with a fictional handle

• Reusable

Con

• It can be too sturdy for small-sized uses

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Benefits Of Purchasing The Best Paracord

• Cutting through zip ties: If the enemy binds you with a zip tie and your boot races are made of the best paracord brand, you can use them to cut through. Their strength and toughness make it possible to cut through the ties.

• Paracord can be used in starting a fire: The paracord's strands are flammable and hence, can use them to start a fire for cooking or keeping warm and hungry bears away from your tent.

• Paracord can be used to build a survival bow: With the best quality paracord brand, you can easily use it to make survival bowstrings for fishing or make traps to catch other animals for food.

• It is useful in building a better shelter: With the best paracord brand, you are assured of having a stable shelter over the cold night. If you forgot your tent line, you could use paracord instead, and they will offer great stability.

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How to Tie A Paracord Knot

Do you need to know how to tie paracord knots? It is essential to understand various ways to tie a paracord knot. There are numerous types of knots, but there are three most popular knots based on paracord reviews, including:

Monkey's fist

Paracord Snake Knot

Paracord Lanyard Knot

Are you looking for the best paracord brand for your survival situation? The military brands are the best in terms of quality, durability, and portability, and multipurpose. Out of the top five best paracords, you are guaranteed to get a quality paracord that will not disappoint.

Key Characteristics of the Best Paracord for Survival and Camping Purposes

High Tensile Strength

Having a strong and reliable cord is essential. The best paracords are made with high tensile strength, which means they can withstand a lot of weight without breaking or snapping. Look for cords that have a minimum rating of 550 pounds, as this is considered the industry standard.

Durability and Resistance to Abrasion

In addition to being strong, the best paracords are also durable and resistant to abrasion. When you're out in the wilderness, your cord may come into contact with rocks, trees, and other rough surfaces that could cause damage.

Choosing a cord with a tough outer sheath will help protect it from wear and tear.

Lightweight and Compactness

When packing for an outdoor adventure or preparing for a survival situation, every ounce counts. That's why it's important to choose a paracord that is lightweight and compact.

Military-grade cords are often designed with this in mind, so look for options that meet milspec standards.

Flexibility

The ability to tie knots easily is crucial when using paracord in survival situations. The best cords are flexible enough to bend around corners without losing their shape or strength. This makes them easier to work with and more versatile overall.

Toughness

Paracord needs to be able to stand up against harsh weather conditions like rain, snow, sleet, or extreme heat. The best cords are made from materials that can handle these challenges without breaking down over time.

Additional Features

Paracords have additional features designed specifically for survival situations or camping trips. These might include reflective strands woven into the cord for visibility at night or fire-starting capabilities built into the cord's core.

When shopping for the best paracord for your needs, remember these key characteristics. Look for options that offer high tensile strength, durability and resistance to abrasion, lightweight and compactness, flexibility, toughness, and additional features designed to make your outdoor adventures safer and more enjoyable.

With the right paracord in your pack, you'll be better prepared for whatever challenges come your way.

Types of Nylon Parachute Paracord

Nylon parachute cords are a popular choice. They are strong, durable, and versatile, making them ideal for various applications like camping, hiking, survival situations, and more. However, not all nylon parachute cords are created equal. Here are the different types of nylon parachute paracords you should know:

Type III 550-Pound Test Cord

Type III 550-pound test cord is the most popular and widely used type of paracord. It has a minimum breaking strength of 550 pounds or 249 kilograms and consists of seven inner strands that can be removed and used separately in emergency situations. Type III cords have a diameter of about 4mm or 5/32 inches.

This type of cord is suitable for a wide range of applications such as crafting bracelets, belts, lanyards, dog leashes, tent guy lines, hammock straps, and more. It is also commonly used by military personnel because it meets their specifications for strength and durability.

Type I and II Cords

Type I and II cords have lower weight capacities than Type III cords but can still be useful in certain situations. Type I cord has a minimum breaking strength of 95 pounds or 43 kilograms while Type II cord has a minimum breaking strength of 400 pounds or 181 kilograms.

Type I cord has only one inner strand while Type II cord has three inner strands. Both types have a diameter smaller than that of Type III (about 1-2mm). These types are ideal for lightweight projects where heavy-duty strength is not necessary.

Commercial-Grade Cords

Commercial-grade cords may not meet military specifications since they are produced with different standards in mind. They often come in bright colors and patterns that make them attractive to consumers who use them for decorative purposes rather than functional ones.

While commercial-grade cords may be cheaper than military-grade ones, they are not as reliable in emergency situations. They may have lower weight capacities or inconsistent quality that can compromise their strength and durability.

When choosing the best paracord for your needs, always consider the type of project you will use it for and the level of strength and durability required. Type III 550-pound test cord is a versatile option that can handle most applications, while Type I and II cords are suitable for lightweight projects. Avoid using commercial-grade cords in critical situations where reliability is essential.

Strands and Plies of Paracord

Paracord, also known as parachute cord or 550 cord, is a versatile and durable cordage that can be used for various purposes. It's made of nylon or polyester and comes in different types, including commercial paracord, milspec paracord, craft paracord, and spec paracord. One of the essential features of paracords is their inner strands.

Standard Type III Cord Has Seven Inner Strands

The most common type of paracord is Type III cord, which has seven inner strands. These individual strands are strong enough to support up to 550 pounds each. The outer sheath provides additional protection and strength to the cord.

Some Cords Have Additional Inner Strands or Outer Sheaths for Extra Durability

Some manufacturers add extra strands or outer sheaths to their cords for added durability.

For example, Grid Paracord by Atwood Rope has a grid pattern of specialty strands woven into the outer sheath, providing extra grip and durability.

Higher Strand Counts Can Increase Weight Capacity but Also Add Bulk

Paracords with higher strand counts can increase weight capacity but also add bulk to the cord. For example, Paracord Planet's 750 Parachute Cord has eleven inner strands instead of seven like standard Type III cords. This increased number of inner strands allows it to hold up to 750 pounds but makes it thicker than standard Type III cords.

When choosing a paracord with higher strand counts, consider whether the added weight and thickness will affect its intended use.

Specialty Strands Can Add Unique Features to Cords

Specialty strands can add unique features to cords depending on their intended use. For example, reflective threads woven into the outer sheath provide visibility in low-light conditions, while glow-in-the-dark threads make locating your gear at night easier.

Other specialty strands include fire-starting tinder strands, fishing line strands, and even dental floss strands. These additional features can come in handy during outdoor activities or survival situations.

Fake Paracord Exists

Unfortunately, not all paracords are created equal. Some manufacturers produce fake paracord that doesn't meet the standards of genuine paracords. These cords may have fewer inner strands, lower weight capacity, or inferior materials.

To ensure you're getting genuine paracord, look for reputable brands and check the product specifications to see if they meet industry standards.

Colored Type III Nylon Paracord

Having a reliable and versatile cord can make all the difference. That's where colored Type III nylon paracord comes in. This type of cord is made from durable nylon threads and is designed to be both strong and lightweight.

Versatility in Outdoor Activities

One of the main benefits of using colored cords is their versatility in outdoor activities. For example, brightly colored cords can mark trails or identify gear such as backpacks or tents.

This can be especially useful when camping with a group or in areas with multiple campsites.

Different colors can be used for different purposes, such as red for emergencies or green for hunting trips.

Color Fading Due to UV Exposure

It's important to note that some colors may fade faster than others due to UV exposure. While this may not affect the strength of the cord, it can make it more difficult to identify gear or trails over time.

To combat this issue, consider using darker colors that are less likely to fade or storing your cord out of direct sunlight when not in use.

Camouflage Patterns Available

Camouflage patterns are also available for those who want a more discreet option for their outdoor adventures.

However, it's important to consider whether these patterns are suitable for your environment. For example, a woodland camouflage pattern may not be effective in desert environments.

Choosing the Right Paracord Type

When selecting a paracord type, it's important to consider what you'll be using it for and how much weight it will need to support. Colored Type III nylon paracord is rated at 550 pounds and is suitable for most general-purpose applications such as tent tie-downs and gear lashing.

For heavier-duty applications, consider using Type IV paracord which is rated at 750 pounds. Real mil-spec cord is also an option for those needing the highest strength and durability level.

Other Considerations

In addition to choosing the right type of paracord, there are a few other factors to keep in mind. For example, some cords come with built-in features such as a ferro rod for starting fires or reflective threads for increased visibility at night.

Price changes can also be a factor when selecting a colored Type III nylon paracord. While some brands may offer lower prices, it's important to ensure that you're getting a quality product that meets your needs.

Top 5 Best Paracord Reviews

Paracords are versatile cords made of nylon that have a wide range of uses, from survival situations to crafting. With so many brands and types available on the market, choosing the best one can be overwhelming.

1. Titan Type III Commercial Grade Paracord

Titan Type III Commercial Grade Paracord is a top-of-the-line product that is known for its strength and durability.

It has a breaking strength of 550 pounds, making it ideal for heavy-duty tasks such as camping, hunting, and survival situations.

This paracord comes in various colors and sizes, allowing you to choose the perfect one for your needs.

2. Rothco Type III Commercial Paracord

Rothco Type III Commercial Paracord is another excellent choice for those looking for high-quality paracords.

It has a breaking strength of 550 pounds and is made of 100% nylon material.

This paracord comes in different colors and lengths, making it suitable for various activities such as camping, hiking, or DIY projects.

3. Atwood Rope MFG Tactical Cord

Atwood Rope MFG Tactical Cord is specifically designed for tactical applications such as military operations or law enforcement activities. It has a breaking strength of over 700 pounds and features seven inner strands that can be used separately in emergency situations. This paracord comes in different colors and sizes to fit any need.

4. Mil-Spec Monkey Survival Bracelet Kit

The Mil-Spec Monkey Survival Bracelet Kit includes everything you need to make your own survival bracelet using high-quality paracords with a breaking strength of up to 550 pounds each. The kit contains two pieces of paracords with different colors (10 feet each), buckles, and instructions. This kit is perfect for those who enjoy DIY projects or want to have a survival bracelet ready in case of an emergency.

5. GOLBERG 550lb Parachute Cord

GOLBERG 550lb Parachute Cord is a versatile paracord that can be used for various activities such as camping, hiking, or crafting. It has a breaking strength of 550 pounds and is made of high-quality nylon material that resists wear and tear. This paracord comes in different colors and sizes, making it easy to find the perfect one for your needs.

How to Use Paracord for Survival

Survival paracord, also known as survivor cord, is a versatile tool that can be used in a variety of ways when out in the wilderness. It's made of nylon and has a minimum breaking strength of 550 pounds, making it an ideal tool for survival situations.

Basic Knots and Techniques

Before heading out into the wilderness with only a length of cordage at hand, it's important to learn basic knots and techniques. The most common knots used with paracord are the square knot, bowline knot, and clove hitch. These knots are essential for building shelters, securing gear, and making traps.

One technique that is particularly useful when using paracord is splicing. Splicing allows you to join two pieces of cordage together without tying a knot. This technique can be used to make longer lengths of cordage or repair damaged sections.

Shelter Building

Paracord can be used to build shelters in various ways. One way is by tying a tarp between two trees using guy lines made from paracord. Another way is by creating a shelter using natural materials such as branches and leaves. Paracord can be used to tie these materials together securely.

Securing Gear

Paracord can also be used to secure gear such as backpacks or sleeping bags to trees or other objects. This prevents animals from getting into your gear while you're sleeping or away from camp.

Making Traps

Paracord can be used to make traps for catching small game such as rabbits or squirrels. One type of trap that can be made with paracord is the snare trap. A snare trap consists of a noose tied with paracord that tightens around an animal when it tries to move through it.

Taking Care When Using It

Taking care when using paracord ensures that you get maximum benefits from it. One way to take care of your paracord is by storing it properly. Paracord should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent mold and mildew from forming.

Another way to take care of your paracord is by inspecting it regularly for any signs of damage such as fraying or discoloration. If you notice any damage, it's important to replace the damaged section before using the cordage.

Recommendations for purchasing the best quality paracord

In conclusion, when looking to purchase the best paracord for survival and camping purposes, it is important to consider key characteristics such as strength, durability, and versatility. Types of nylon parachute paracord, strands and plies of paracord, and colored Type III nylon paracord are all factors that can impact the quality of your purchase. Researching top-rated products through reviews can help guide your decision-making process.

To get the most out of your paracord, it is also important to understand how to use it for survival situations. By learning various knots and techniques, you can utilize this versatile tool in a variety of scenarios.

Overall, investing in high-quality paracord is essential for any outdoor enthusiast or survivalist. Don't settle for subpar products that may not hold up in critical situations. Instead, do your research and make an informed decision on which product will best suit your needs.

FAQs

Q: Can I use paracord for climbing?

A: While some types of paracord may be strong enough for climbing purposes, it is not recommended as it has not been specifically designed or tested for this use. It is always important to use proper equipment designed specifically for climbing.

Q: How much weight can paracord hold?

A: The weight capacity of paracord varies depending on its thickness and number of strands. However, standard Type III 550 cord has a minimum breaking strength of 550 pounds.

Q: Is all paracord made from nylon?

A: While most commercially available “parachute cord” or “paracord” is made from nylon due to its strength and durability properties, there are other materials such as polyester that can be used as well.

Q: Can I wash my paracord?

A: Yes! Most types of nylon parachute cord are machine washable and can be dried on low heat. However, it is important to avoid using harsh detergents or bleach, as this can damage the cord.

Q: How long should my paracord be?

A: The length of your paracord will depend on its intended use. For basic survival purposes, a length of 50-100 feet is recommended. However, if you plan on using it for specific tasks such as shelter building or trap making, you may want to consider purchasing longer lengths.