The word paracord usually brings theimage of a parachute with strong lines attached to an object gliding to earth, usually a person or a pallet with supplies. That's a fairly close description. Its 2 standard styles are military grade and commercial grade, which are further broken down into four main types according to break strength.:
- Type I has 100 lbs break strength.
- Type II provides break strength of 400 pounds.
- Type III, known as 550 paracord, has 550 pounds of break strength.
- Type IV has break strength of 750 pounds.
It is essential to keep in mind that break strengths differ by manufacturer and purpose, which means research and believed need to be put into the equation of whether the cord will do the job securely and successfully.
Industrial and military paracord 550 have various standards, despite the fact that the end product often looks the exact same. Certified defense service providers need to follow military standards of weaves, inner strands, and colors.
Military spec 550 paracord has the following characteristics:.
- made from 100 percent top-grade nylon, producing maximum strength and weather condition resistance.
- fast drying.
- mold, rot, mildew, and UV resistant.
- a minimum of 7 inner strands, each including the appropriate color-coding requirement and particular weave mandated in the agreement.
- a woven external sleeve casing that includes additional strength.
Industrial grade cordage is made stateside and overseas, usually to less stringent directives.
Steps from Start to Finish.
Military spec 550 paracord, made from the best 100 percent nylon, starts with the color-coded inner strands. The color combination is particular for each producer as a means of quality assurance.
The Department of Defense (DoD) has particular cabling and weave standards for service providers. Each strand consists of 3 braided, or cabled, strings that add to the strength and dependability of the cord. The cord should consist of at least 7 strands with a dense, tight weave and twist, which are then covered in a woven nylon sleeve. The end product has a diameter of 5/32 of an inch. The cord will be smooth and without knots and bulges. The category label will check out MIL-C-5040.
Avoid the wannabe competitors by checking for the particular notification "Made in USA" (not assembled!) and a certification of authenticity. You want authentic quality, not industrial grade, to restrain and protect emergency shelters. The cord can be dismantled to serve as a tourniquet, fishing line, or strong thread for sewing.
Unethical business cheat, however you can mention to. Less than 7 strands, no colored strands, unbraided strands, or strands with just one or two strings suggest it's not the actual thing. An item with cotton or polyester is an industrial grade or knockoff item. If the overall diameter reads 1/8 inch thick, it is not military 550 cordage.
Take a look at these paracord 550 videos. They will give you a good general knowledge what to expect with 550 cord.