WHAT IS
550 PARACORD?
Born as parachute suspension line, now an EDC standard. What the number 550 means, how the cord is built, and the basic knots worth learning before your first build.
550
Rated to hold 550 lb (~250 kg) of tensile strength. The origin of the name and the heart of the spec.
TYPE III
A grade from the US military spec (MIL-C-5040). A woven sheath wrapped around seven inner strands.
7 CORES
Pull the inner strands out for fishing line, sewing thread, and more. One cord, many tools.
4mm
The standard thickness — the right size for bracelets, keychains, straps, and EDC accessories.
5 ESSENTIAL KNOTS — WATCH & LEARN
SAFETY NOTE
550 lb is a static load rating. Commercial paracord must never be used for climbing, rescue, or life-safety applications. Accessory and utility use only.
FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- What is the difference between 550 paracord and ordinary cord?
- Paracord has a woven nylon sheath around several inner strands. For the same thickness it is far stronger than cotton or poly cord, handles water well, and barely stretches. The number 550 refers to a 550 lb (about 250 kg) static load rating.
- What does Type III mean?
- One of the grades in the US military spec MIL-C-5040: seven inner strands (seven to nine depending on the maker) and 550 lb tensile strength. Most cord sold as 550 paracord follows this spec or is a commercial equivalent. Commercial cord is not certified to the military spec, so treat the strength figure as a reference.
- What can I make with 1 m of paracord?
- About enough for a short keychain, zipper pull, or lanyard. Plan 2–2.5 m for a bracelet, 4 m or more for a king cobra bracelet, and 5 m or more for a dog leash or strap.
- Which knot should I learn first?
- The cobra knot (Solomon bar). Most bracelets, keychains, and straps are built on it alone. From there, add the lark's head (attaching to a ring), the diamond knot (finishing ends), and the king cobra (a second cobra layer).
- Does paracord degrade over time?
- Nylon slowly weakens with UV exposure and abrasion. A bracelet worn daily will fade and fuzz within one or two years. That is fine for accessory use, but use fresh cord whenever strength matters.
- Can I make climbing or safety gear from paracord?
- No. 550 lb is a static rating and every knot reduces it substantially. Never use it for climbing, rescue, load-bearing, or life-safety purposes. Accessory and utility use only.
TIME TO BUILD
Basics down? Start your first build with the bracelet guide.