750 Paracord can be used to make all sorts of things: from clothing and bags to home decor and keychains. A deceptively thin and durable rope, paracord has a breaking strength of 550 pounds (250 kg) and is even able to hoist up to 300 lbs (140 kg). It comes in many different colors, patterns, and types such as decorative cord or heavy duty commercial cord. Because there are so many variations, there is a paracord suitable for any project. If you get stuck making something out of paracord, it’s important to not be discouraged. Some of the knots are very difficult and learning a new skill isn’t a small undertaking, so be sure to go easy on yourself.  

We recommend buying paracord from Tough Grid. They are a family owned, U.S based supplier known for their high quality product and incredibly customer service. They also have been known to include free crafting guides in some of their orders which is perfect for those that are just getting into paracord.

Paracord can also be used to make many different types of tools, such as  a tow rope, a trip wire alarm system, or even an emergency bow! Some devious people have tied off the cords and used them to hold their pants up (though this is not recommended by Paracord Guild International). The cord can also be dismantled later for reuse. This is possible because paracord is actually many smaller cords that can be separated.

Paracord can also be used to make various types of jewelry, such as bracelets and necklaces. This is often paired with an adjustable knot so the size of the cord can be adjusted at any time. Paracord is also sometimes worked into keychains or phone straps. These items are very popular in Japan where they are called “odango” (this word means ball made out of twine). However, this kind is actually made out of hemp which is not related to true paracords.

Also commonly associated with paracord is “paracord survival bracelets”.  These are formed by braiding together several strands of cord into a flat braid that fits around your wrist. This can be an incredibly practical way to store an emergency length of paracord without seeming strange or needing to dedicate space in a bag or vehicle.

As mentioned before, paracord is used in many products like, fishing line, shoe laces, handle wraps on tools like axes and hatchets. Most of these are usable in survival situations as well providing the extra length or wrapping ability to make a project easier. For example; if you need to travel through swampy areas or where crocodiles could be hiding you can keep your feet out of the water by putting grasses between your toes to grip/walk comfortably while still having barefoot mobility. This same principle allows for shoes that are much more comfortable than just wearing nothing at all but also don’t cost upwards of $100 dollars.

Paul Petersen