550 Paracord

What is 550 Paracord?

550 Paracord, also known as Type III Paracord, is a lightweight, durable, and versatile nylon rope originally used in the suspension lines of U.S. military parachutes. Over time, its incredible strength and utility made it popular for a wide range of civilian, survival, and outdoor uses.

Specifications of 550 Paracord

SpecificationDetails
TypeType III Paracord
Tensile Strength550 pounds (249 kg)
Diameter~4 mm (5⁄32 inch)
MaterialNylon
Construction7 inner core strands, each made of 2-3 yarns, surrounded by a woven nylon sheath
Length OptionsCommon lengths: 30m hank, 91m spool and, 305m spool.
StretchSlight elasticity (~30% elongation under load)
WeightWeight (oz/100ft) – 8oz (227g)
Melting PointAround 244°C (471°F)
UV & Rot ResistanceYes – suitable for outdoor use

Features of 550 Paracord

  • High Strength-to-Weight Ratio – Can support up to 550 lbs without breaking.
  • Flexible and Lightweight – Easy to carry and manipulate.
  • Durable Sheath – Resists abrasion, UV rays, and mildew.
  • Water-Resistant – Dries quickly and retains strength when wet.
  • Inner Strands for Versatility – The inner yarns can be removed for finer cordage.
  • Color Variety – Available in a wide range of colors and patterns, including reflective and glow-in-the-dark options.
  • Knot-Friendly – Holds knots well but is also easy to untie.

Common Uses of 550 Paracord

Survival and Emergency

  • Making tourniquets, slings, or splints
  • Building shelter or securing tarps
  • Crafting snares or fishing line (using inner strands)
  • Fire bow drill string
  • Emergency sewing thread or shoelaces

Outdoor and Camping

  • Tent guy lines and clotheslines
  • Securing gear to backpacks
  • Hammock suspension systems
  • DIY bushcraft projects

Everyday Carry (EDC) and DIY

  • Paracord bracelets, keychains, and lanyards
  • Zipper pulls and handles
  • Wrapping tool handles or flashlights for grip
  • Creating custom dog leashes and collars

Tactical and Military

  • Retaining gear, attaching items to MOLLE systems
  • Dummy cording equipment to prevent loss
  • Making rifle slings or utility belts

Crafting and Decorative

  • Paracord weaving and knotting (Cobra, King Cobra, etc.)
  • Custom jewelry, watchbands, and belts
  • Decorative wraps for tools, knives, and walking sticks

Why It’s Called “550“

The “550” in 550 Paracord refers to its minimum breaking strength—550 pounds (249 kg). This makes it ideal for heavy-duty tasks without being overly bulky or heavy.

Care and Maintenance Tips

  • Avoid exposing it to open flame—nylon melts.
  • Clean with mild soap and water if dirty.
  • Store in a cool, dry place to extend life.
  • Inspect periodically for fraying or damage if used in critical applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common uses include securing gear to harnesses, using it as dummy cords to prevent losing small or valuable items, crafting paracord bracelets, tying rucksacks to vehicle racks, and fastening camouflage nets to trees or vehicles.

Paracord is strong for its size, especially Type III (550 paracord), which can hold up to 550 lbs. While some ropes are stronger, paracord offers an excellent strength-to-weight ratio and is more flexible and versatile.

In emergencies, paracord can be used for building shelters, making tourniquets, fishing, tying gear, creating splints, or even replacing shoelaces. Its inner threads can be used for sewing or stitching wounds.

Paracord is lightweight, incredibly versatile, and strong. It’s popular in survival, outdoor, and everyday carry (EDC) gear because it can be used in dozens of critical situations.

Yes, paracord can get wet. It’s made of nylon, which dries quickly and resists rot and mildew, making it ideal for outdoor use.

Paracord is also known as parachute cord, as it was originally used in WWII for parachute suspension lines.

No, you should not climb paracord. While strong, it’s not designed to support the dynamic weight and force of climbing. Use proper climbing rope for safety.

People often wear paracord bracelets for fashion, but also for function. In a survival situation, the bracelet can be unraveled and used for emergencies like building shelters or fixing gear.

Genuine 550 paracord has a nylon outer sheath with 7 inner strands, and each of those strands contains 2–3 smaller threads. It should feel smooth, not stiff or cheap.

Paracord on a knife handle adds grip, can be used for quick access, and provides emergency cordage if needed in the field.

Yes, you can swim with a paracord bracelet. It’s water-resistant and won’t be damaged by fresh or salt water.

Conclusion

550 Paracord is one of the most useful and adaptable tools in any adventurer’s or prepper’s arsenal. Whether you’re in the wilderness, fixing gear on the fly, or crafting custom accessories, its strength, flexibility, and reliability make it indispensable.

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