Paracord

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Paracord was originally used in the suspension lines for parachutes. It is a kind of kernmantle rope. The kind used by the US military for this purpose is Type III, or #550 paracord. It is made of nylon, and consists of an outer jacket with seven braided inner threads. Only about 3/16 of an inch thick, it can support up to 550 lbs (under perfect test conditions). Paracord generally has very good strength for is thickness compared to other common kinds of rope, and because of its tough nylon construction, it is resistant to rot and abrasion.

There are various types of paracord, Type I, Type II, Type III and Type IV, with increasing roman numerals indicating increasing cord strength and an increasing number of inner braids. These inner braids can be separated out of the main cord in emergency situations for fishing line or sewing thread.

Paracord serves many general uses in the United States Army today. It is readily available to soldiers and many infantrymen use the cord in a number of aplications. For example, when threaded with beads, paracord may be used as a pace counter to estimate ground covered by foot.

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