Here is a breakdown of the different types of paracord commissioned by the U.S. Military, along with their most basic specs. The rest of mil-spec paracord requirements can be found in this document: Mil-C-5040. Type Today, it is fairly uncommon to find Military-Spec paracord in any type but Type III (550 lb.). Paracord Planet also carries Mil-Spec 750 Type IV (750 lb.). The other types of paracord, and most of the Type III paracord, produced today is "commercial grade". This means that the strength rating is still tested, just not to the extent that the military would require. If you want real Mil-Spec paracord, you can find it here. The amount of stress a rope can take before breaking. Often preceded by a "#" to signify lbs. It should be noted that a falling object or person will put many times the stress on a rope that a stationary object will. A 200 lb. person could easily snap a strand of 550 lb. rated paracord when falling.

A nylon Kernmantle rope formerly used in military parachutes. Now used for survivalcraft and various hobbies. Para-Max paracord is the biggest and beefiest paracord. The strongest type on the market, it's an essential for any emergency survival kit. Great for towing, hiking, hunting, pet toys, horse halters, and outdoor projects.Genuine 550 paracord is a type-III paracord. It may only be a humble looking rope, but its 550lbs breaking strain means it is fit for a multitude of weight-bearing purposes. Paracord Knots

Whether you are an experienced bushman or a relative novice, the need for high-quality kit is paramount. Those with years of experience under their belt may be able to make more of what they have got, good or bad, but if you find yourself in a survival situation it is imperative that your equipment is up to the task. Elastic Cord is dependable, tough and stretchy. It is used for countless projects such as DIY jewelry, gift wraps, home décor, bracelets, display cards, scrap-booking, name tags and masks.While most people today use commercial grade "550 paracord", there are a few different other "types". The length that a rope can be pulled to, and then afterward return to its original length. Paracord must have at least 30% elongation. We are constantly adding new products to our store. Is there anything you would like to see us carry? Let us know in the comments below. Last week, Isabel and Pat commented and won 100 ft. of #95 paracord! This week, comment to win 100 ft. of #275 paracord. This is the document that specifies the requirements for military paracord. You can read a PDF copy here or read the summary in this blog.

Similar to nylon, but faster drying, less strong, and less elastic. Cheap imitation paracord is often made from polyester. People who work with ropes, specifically paracord, use some terms that might be unfamiliar to the rest of us. Use this list as a glossary.Coreless 650: Here due to popular demand! Perfect choice for most handle wraps and weaving projects. A life-changing resource, the paracord (or the 550 cord because of its 550-pound breaking test) was originally used in the suspension lines of US parachutes during the Second World War as well as by astronauts on space missions. Paracord is our most popular variety because it offers a great balance of strength and flexibility. It has countless uses and is perfect for crafting bracelets, repairing clothing, constructing handle wraps, and for hunting, fishing, and camping. Each of these types of cord comes in various color options, including: solid, multi-color, camo, reflective, and glow-in-the-dark. Visit our color comparison chart to browse these options. Standard 650: Great for crafting and adding bulk to projects. Puffy inner strands do not flatten like standard paracord.