If you frequent craft fairs or hike often, you are probably familiar with paracord. These colorful straps are sold as a unique fashion statement – typically in the style of bracelets. However, paracord has been around far longer than it’s been outdoor fashion staple. Read on to learn more.
History of Paracord
Considering paracord has become popular in the past decade or so, it has a surprisingly long history. The slim nylon rope was first introduced during World War II as a parachute cord (hence the nickname, paracord).
Paracord was created as the suspension cord for parachuting expeditions. The tough, slender rope was the perfect option to get troops safely to the ground. However, once the paratroopers were on the ground, they decided the paracord was too valuable to go to waste. Troops started using the strength-resistant rope for many purposes, including attaching equipment to harnesses, tying items to vehicle racks, and securing camouflage nets.
After WWII, military members continued to explore paracord’s versatility. The material became so popular, that NASA used the cord in 1997 to repair damaged insulation to the Hubble Space Telescope.
While paracord is still popular with professionals, it has since transitioned into the public market. This lightweight material is often sold as bracelets to hikers. Designers have added different colors and patterns to the bracelets, so they often serve as fashion accessories. However, in case of emergency, these bracelets can be taken apart so that the paracord can be used for its intended purpose.
Ways to Use Paracord
While paracord was intended solely to get paratroops to the ground safely, the potential uses have since exploded. There are hundreds of potential uses of this strong, slim material. Most of today’s common uses are helpful in cases of outdoor survival.
Saving a Limb
Whether you fall when hiking or get attacked while on a trail, a proper tourniquet can save your life. When one of your limbs is severely bleeding, you need to cut off the blood supply ASAP. If you don’t, you can lose too much blood and have to have that limb amputated. In worst case scenarios, excess blood loss or infection can lead to death.
If you have an intact paracord bracelet, you can use the cord to cut off circulation. Simply tie it around the larger part of the bleeding limb (i.e. the thigh or bicep). You will want to tie it as tight as possible to restrict the blood flow. As soon as the tourniquet is in place, seek emergency medical attention.
Fishing Line
When fishing, you typically want to use a thin, clear line, especially in freshwater. However, if you are stuck in the woods, a paracord might be able to do the trick.
Simply tie you hook to the end of a paracord, and drop it in the water. This method will likely work best in murky waters, where the fish won’t be able to see the bold cord. It will take a while, but a fish may eventually bite.
Build Shelter
Packing a fully functioning tent isn’t always an option on long trips. If you don’t have your tent guy line, or are improvising a tarp shelter, paracord can help you secure a shelter.
If you have about 20 feet of strong cord, you can use five feet on each corner to create the shelter room. If you don’t have loose cord, your bracelet may work instead. You can use the strap to tie the tarp to bushes or saplings.
Personalize Gear
While paracord is great for emergencies, it really does have a multitude of uses. When you go camping or backpacking you need to bring a lot of gear. Some items – like small blades and knives, have skeleton handles. These handles tend to break and aren’t that comfortable.
You can make your handle more comfortable and personalize your gear by utilizing paracord. You can wrap different colors around the handles, so everyone will be able to recognize your own gear.
This unique color coding system can be especially useful if you are part of a hiking group or enjoy the outdoors with friends. No more missing gear!
Dog Leash
You don’t have to scale a mountain to utilize paracord. Paracord is a great substitute for a dog leash. If your dog’s leash breaks, or if you decide to take an impromptu trip to the park, you can quickly slip paracord around your dog as leash. However, if your dog does not have a collar on – be careful. You don’t want to tie paracord too tight around their neck.
Who is Paracord For?
As you can see, almost anyone can benefit from owning paracord. It is beloved by outdoor enthusiasts, but even if you spend minimal time outdoors, it is a great tool to own. If anything, it is a great rope substitute to have in your car in case of emergencies.
