Paracord: must have, can't do without item?

I keep cordage in each of my kits, It is useful for hanging a tarp (among other things). I noticed that Evolute uses the Spider cord in his kit, not paracord. I did a search for it and found a supplier. According to what I read, it is thin, very strong, and fairly pricey. I was thinking about picking upsome and testing it out... How does it compare with paracord?
 
don't get me wrong, the same things can be done with other materials, but it is easier to carry everything in one small package with hearty cord, and thin string.

That, and almost anything can benefit from a paracord wrap on the outside!
 
bruce said:
where do you buy yours at, Smith & Edwards? I grew up in Logan and couldn't pass S&E without going in for a look, at least their old store!

Regards,
Click to expand...


Yup I get my cord at Smith and Edwards. You gotta love the "rope room". How long has it been since you went to S & E?
 
I've only used the cheap non mil-spec stuff. It works fine for my purposes, mainly things like hanging tarps, or for use as clothes line. It's what I carry if I'm just out for a walk and only planning to be out for a few hours. On an overnight hike I will usually have 2 or 3 different types of cord/rope with me. First will be a couple of 10 foot pieces of braided climbing type rope for hanging my hammock. Then I have the para-cord for stringing up a tarp, lashing items to my pack and whatever else I might need it for. Lastly, I usually carry a bit of natural fiber twine that I use for small stuff and which I pretty much consider disposable.

One of these days I'll get a bundle of actual 550 cord, I just keep on putting it off for one reason or another.
 
The spiderwire is very strong, very thin, and available in different strengths. It is difficult to tie a knot in. Even the double palomar knot they recommend slips for me. I carry 60' of it in my kit though, and it takes as much volume as 1/2 a business card.(BTW, I carry the 24lb test, which has the same diameter as 12lb mono.)
I also carry paracord due to it's versatility. Not much cordage can take the weight the paracord will, and if it does, does not break down into multiple components.
If I did not have my two current favorites, I would throw in 200' of the mason's twine, to have plenty of lighter line and the ability to braid heavier line.
 
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