paracord difference?

kyhunt

kyhunt

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Mar 20, 2007
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Is there really a big difference in paracords ? I notice some sites stress that there paracord is better than others? Is there really a difference or just a sells pitch?
 
I usually buy the G.I. PLUS type III 550 commercial paracord. I think it's made by ROTHCO. I have had NO issues with it. :thumbup:
 
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Thanks. I'm down to my last 20feet. Was just looking at some firestarters at a place and seen where they kind of made a big deal over their paracord being better. I just always thought paracod was paracord.
 
there are different paracords its not all the same, 450,550, and 650 also 4 strand and 7 strand inner cords. 550 is military.

cricket
 
the cheap stuff just has polyester fluff inside.

the mil spec stuff has 6 or 7(?) strands inside and each of those is made of 3 threads.

not gonna make any difference if you're gutting it, not much difference if you're using it for short lanyards, zipper pulls, keyfobs or whatever. however if you think you might want the individual strands for lashing or improvising fishing line then it might make a difference.
 
Thanks. So much to learn. All the stuff I looked at says 7 strand 550.
 
7 Strand at 75 pounds per strand with a nylon sheath... 550+ pound test. There's no military standard for the diameter of the line or anything....
 
The most popular is 550 cord - 7 inner strands.

Here's a bunch of info on it and the other types:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parachute_cord

The "fluff" core used to be popular as a "bait-n-switch" type, often advertised as "military cord" or "paracord" and typically sold in discount camping and army/navy stores or catalog and came in 50' or 100' hanks. Many people got wise to it - I've not seen it in a while, actually.

I recently scored a 1000' roll on fleabay for $47 shipped. Genuine issue stuff.
 
i've found more of the fancy/ neon colors to be susceptible to having fluff cores.
 
Supply Captain is where I usually get all of mine. It is all 7 strand 550 lb I believe. Good quality stuff and good service in my experience.

Definitely a difference between real 550 cord and the cheaper stuff they just call "parachute cord" that doesn't give any specs as to strands or strength.
 
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