Paracord Question

L

Lijap

Joined
Jan 21, 2012
Messages
42
I want to make some lanyards for my knives with some 550 paracord, but I am confused. Almost every single tutorial says to remove the inner strands, why?
 
Many lanyards will tie a better knot, like a box knot, if the paracord is gutted.
 
No expert here but I have made several for my knives. It depends on how the lanyard is constructed. Obviously it takes away from much of the strength but I find that it lays flatter when making the weaved designs and makes a tighter pattern with the strands removed. I also wet mine when doing that because I can get it tighter that way. If I am just going to run a length of cord thru the lanyard hole and tie a knot in it or put a fastener on it, I do not remove the guts unless it is required to fit thru the hole (as stated previously).
 
Thanks I will keep those in mind. I have already made at least 5 or 6 things today alone!
 
It all comes down to personal preference. By removing the inner threads, you make the paracord thinner, but you drastically reduce the strength. If you plan on wrapping a handle, I say no inner threads is the way to go. If you want a laynard, keep it in; just make sure you burn the ends to keep it all together and prevent it from fraying.
 
For square knot lanyards that will go on a folder or fixed blade, I gut mine. For any folders with bails, or for any large fixed blades, I leave the guts in. I need to wet my square knot lanyards so they are tighter.

Need to start on round knot lanyards and monkey fist lanyards now.
 
If you want to leave the 550 intact, you can try this braid (start at post #13). It's what I usually use because by undoing the last step, it will completely unravel by pulling on the ends, much like a daisy chain, giving you a nice length of cord for a fire bow, etc.

Doc
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top