Parachute cord, or paracord for short, is a type of rope used for various purposes. Military personnel, hikers, mountain rescuers and even ordinary people use paracord in various ways and enjoy the benefits of this versatile material. If you want to learn more about the use of paracord in an emergency or in everyday life, read on. Some uses of paracord will really surprise you!
How does paracord differ from other ropes?
On the surface, paracord might look like any other rope, but that is far from true. While other ropes may be made of polyester or polypropylene, paracord is made of nylon, which is known for its incredible strength-to-weight ratio - in fact, it is so strong that astronauts used it to repair the Hubble Space Telescope.
Because this material is very lightweight, paracord is, thanks to its many life-saving features, common gear for hikers and is also often found in survival kits.
The US military defines six different types of paracord: I, IA, II, IIA, III and IV. The most commonly used is type III, which contains seven to nine core yarns and boasts a strength of 550 pounds (240 kg), earning it the nickname „550 cord“. What are its uses? Let's take a look.
Emergency use of paracord: How to use paracord for survival?
Paracord was originally used as a suspension line on parachutes, but now it is used in practically every situation where a cord is needed. Paracord is so important for survival that even young scouts are taught how to use it.
In the wild, it can be useful in several emergency situations. Whether someone is stuck in sand, drowning in water or falls into a ravine, paracord keeps you far enough away from danger while also providing the “leverage” needed to pull the victim to safety.
You may be forced to spend the night outdoors. Here too, paracord can help. If you have access to tree branches, you can build an emergency shelter using paracord in a few minutes. Gather about 10 reasonably sized, sturdy branches and connect them using paracord. If you are luckier and have a lightweight tarp on hand, you can thread paracord through the tarp's grommet and tie the ends to two trees to create a simple hammock.
One of the best uses of 550 paracord is its ability to bear an incredible amount of weight. Whether you need to haul game or transport firewood more efficiently, paracord can be tied to almost anything to achieve more efficient load transport.
A paracord rope ladder - if the terrain is too steep to climb comfortably or you need to climb a tree, use two parallel cords to create a rope ladder and overcome any obstacle!
Paracord for food preparation
If you are stranded in the wilderness and need to eat, there are several ways paracord can help. Turn it into a fishing rod to catch fish or create a lure and set a fishing line. You can also remove the inner strands and create a net for catching fish.
A “bear bag” is designed to hoist food up in order to deter animals from trying to steal it. Using the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) method, throw the paracord over a tall, sturdy branch and then clip it to the bag using a small carabiner. Pull the food up high, out of reach of scavengers.
With some practice, you can learn how to use paracord as a trap to increase your chances of catching food in emergency situations.
Paracord and its use for first aid
If you are bleeding severely and cannot get to a hospital immediately, paracord can be used to stop bleeding. Tie it above the wound to apply pressure and reduce blood loss.
For bone fractures in emergency situations, use a bandage and a splint made from paracord. Place a stick on or next to the fractured limb and secure it with paracord to stabilize the bone and prevent further damage.
You can also use paracord as a strap, not only for injuries, but also for safely carrying a rifle or various survival gear. Paracord can also be used for self-defense.
How to use paracord for self-defense?
In addition to the standard use of 550 paracord for survival, it can also be used for self-defense in an emergency situation. Whether you are trapped, vulnerable, or need to defend yourself at home, keep these strategies in mind:
1. Tripwire - using the inner strands of survival paracord, tie together cans or anything that makes noise and attach it firmly between trees around the perimeter of your camp. It will give you peace of mind knowing you will be alerted to any intruder, and it can disorient them long enough for you to get to safety.
2. Paracord as a restraint - if you detain an attacker, you can use paracord as handcuffs. Fold one part of the paracord rope over the other to create two small loops, pull them through each other, slip them over the attacker's wrists, and pull tight.
3. Throwing Sling - if you want to create a long-range self-defense weapon, all you need to do is make a few simple knots around a pouch and spin the weapon, and ammunition will fly everywhere.
Are you also wondering why you should have paracord even if you are not in the wilderness? The inner threads of paracord are great for sewing (repairing) damaged fabric - whether your backpack strap fails on your way to work, or you get a hole in your favorite shirt at home. Paracord can also be used as a dog leash, dog collar, belt, or keychain.
The list of uses for paracord is essentially endless, and the only limit is your imagination and ingenuity. Always keep paracord on hand - you will be surprised how often it comes in handy!
