Recently I started playing with paracord, making a few lanyards, key fobs and so on. Ive bought 100 lengths of cord from several sources. I have been careful to only buy 7 strand cord, and while all of it is labeled some variation of 550 or mil spec Ive noticed a distinct difference in cord thicknesses. My latest arrived in this mornings mail the package label reads Military Style, Made in the U.S.A. by an Approved Govt. Contractor. And this one is about the thinnest one I have gotten.
Now for most of the stuff I am making, I know it makes absolutely no difference; the items are purely utilitarian and use only a few feet of cord. What I have been thinking about is the cord I have always carried in along with the rest of my gear. It seems to me that if there is a difference in thickness, there could also be a difference in strength - and maybe some other characteristics - that could prove dangerous in an emergency.
So first off, assuming 7 strand core, is there any real difference in paracords? And if so, how do I tell the good kind from the rest? I am not looking to purchase huge amounts of the stuff only 100 at a time, but would like to have some idea of just what I am getting.
As always, all replies appreciated!
Now for most of the stuff I am making, I know it makes absolutely no difference; the items are purely utilitarian and use only a few feet of cord. What I have been thinking about is the cord I have always carried in along with the rest of my gear. It seems to me that if there is a difference in thickness, there could also be a difference in strength - and maybe some other characteristics - that could prove dangerous in an emergency.
So first off, assuming 7 strand core, is there any real difference in paracords? And if so, how do I tell the good kind from the rest? I am not looking to purchase huge amounts of the stuff only 100 at a time, but would like to have some idea of just what I am getting.
As always, all replies appreciated!
