Paracord?
​
Did you know that paracord was classified until 1997? Did you know it has taken part in every war or conflict since World War II? Or it was used on the 82nd repair mission of the Hubble Telescope.
So, what exactly is Paracord?
Paracord, also known as parachute cord, is a versatile and lightweight kernmantle rope renowned for its durability and multifaceted uses. It features a 32-strand woven outer sheath encasing a seven-strand inner core. The inner core and outer sheath can vary in type, size, tensile strength, intended use, and color, making paracord a highly adaptable material.
​
Originally classified for military use, paracord was first employed in the creation of parachutes. Its design allows for exceptional strength and flexibility, which are crucial for safely deploying parachutes. However, its utility extends far beyond this initial application. When deconstructed, airborne units utilized paracord as essential cordage to craft survival items, construct shelters, and securely tie down and protect sensitive equipment.
​
Paracord's exceptional qualities make it an indispensable tool in both emergency situations and everyday life. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a survivalist, or someone looking for reliable and durable cordage, paracord provides the strength and versatility needed for a wide range of task
The Invention of Paracord as we know it Today:.
Paracord, as we know it today, has its origins rooted in the innovations of the early 20th century. Initially, parachutes and their suspension lines were made of silk, a material imported from Japan. However, this changed in 1935 when Wallace Hume Carothers, while working at DuPont, developed a revolutionary synthetic material known as nylon.
​
Nylon was first applied commercially in products such as toothbrush bristles and women's stockings. However, the onset of World War II and the attack on Pearl Harbor necessitated a shift in material usage due to the United States' conflict with Japan, which cut off the supply of silk. The Department of Defense (DoD) recognized the need for a more durable, lightweight, and compact material for military applications.
During WWII, the DoD adopted nylon to replace silk in parachutes and their suspension lines. This new material proved to be exceptionally strong, versatile, and resilient, making it ideal for the demanding conditions of wartime operations. Thus, nylon-based paracord became the standard for military parachutes and was also utilized by airborne units for various survival tasks, such as creating shelters and securing equipment.
​
The development and military adoption of nylon paracord marked a significant advancement in material science and tactical gear, ensuring that paracord remains a staple in both military and civilian use to this day.
What does "Kern Mantle" mean?
Outer Sheath: Mantle
Inner Core: Kern
Kern
Mantle
"Why "Nylon"?
-
Prevents rot, mildew, abrasion, and UV fade resistant.
-
Can withstand a moderate amount of weather, abuse, and time without showing much wear.
-
Drys quickly
-
Somewhat elastic
-
Prevents foul odor as other athletic material
How to measure your wrist to purchases a bracelet.
Linear Feet per Inch ?
How many feet is an eight-inch bracelet? It is approximately eight-foot, or each inch is equivalent to one-foot.
​
Step One: Use a piece of string or yarn,
wrap it tightly around your wrist until
both ends touch.
Step Two: Measure the piece of string with a ruler
or measuring tape (Pull tightly)
Step Three: Add one-inch to the number of your wrist
for a buckle, shackle or enclosure. For example,
if you measured 7 1/2 inches, the size of bracelet
your order woudl be an 8 1/2.
How many types of
paracord is there:
What’s Really Going to Kill You Outdoors, And How to Live Through It:
And it is not bears...
Fatalities at National Parks form 20007-2013:
#1 Cause: Drowning: 365
#3 Cause: Fall: 178
# 6 Cause: Avalanche: 33
# 7 Cause: Medical Condition: 31
#9 Cause: Exposure: 19
# 10: Cause: Firearm Accident: 5
# 11 Cause: Bear: 4
# 12 Cause: Other wildlife: 2
​
The odds of surviving a life-threatening event or emergency situation can be significantly improved with the right training, emotional intelligence, and proper equipment. In fact, up to 96.9% of outdoor casualties or injuries could potentially be prevented. One such essential piece of equipment is paracord, known for its lightweight and durable nature. When carried in a compact form, such as a Para-Bracelet, paracord becomes an invaluable tool.
Paracord can serve multiple purposes in survival scenarios. It can be used to create a weapon sling, ensuring firearm safety with a haul line, or fashioned into an animal leash to control your pet’s movements. While having a Para-Bracelet might not prevent all casualties, its versatility allows for numerous life-saving applications. By deconstructing a Para-Bracelet, you can create a haul line or throw line, build a shelter, start a fire, or make a sling or lanyard to carry essential tools.
Thus, carrying paracord in the form of a Para-Bracelet provides you with a multifunctional tool that enhances your chances of survival and safety in emergency situations.
Siler, Wes, 2022. What's really going to kill you outdoors, And how to live through it. Retrieved from:
What’s Really Going to Kill You Outdoors, And How to Live Through It (outsideonline.com)
Is Paracord Necessary for Outdoor Excursions?
​
To be honest, no, paracord is not a necessity for outdoor excursions. However, it is an extremely useful tool that can greatly enhance your safety and preparedness. At Sizzle & Strand, we offer practical and innovative ways to carry several feet of paracord compactly, such as through our Paracrod Bracelets.
​
Our range of paracord products includes solutions for tracking children and pets, discreetly carrying security items, overtly carrying weapons, securing sensitive items like wallets, firearms, and keys, safely pulling your weapon into a tree stand, or simply walking your dog. While we do not promote fear, we firmly believe in promoting safety, security, and practical solutions—hence the name "Sizzle & Strand."
​
We provide these facts not as a sales tactic but as an honest assessment to ensure your physical well-being and increase your chances of being a hero rather than a casualty during an outdoor emergency. Paracord's versatility and practicality, especially during emergencies, make it a valuable addition to any outdoor adventure.
​
This perspective comes directly from the words of an infantryman with combat experience, emphasizing the real-world usefulness of paracord in critical situations.
​
While not essential, having paracord on hand can be a game-changer, offering you peace of mind and a practical tool when you need it most.