Parachute cord (also known as paracord or 550 cord) is a lightweight nylon kernmantle rope (Kernmantle rope is rope constructed with its interior core (the kern) protected with a woven exterior sheath (mantle) that is designed to optimize strength, durability, and flexibility) originally used in the suspension lines of US parachutes during World War II, and is still being used for parachutes today. Once in the field, paratroopers found this cord useful for many other tasks. It is also now used as a general purpose utility cord by both military personnel and civilians.

The braided sheath has a high number of interwoven strands for its size, giving it a relatively smooth texture.

Typical uses include attaching equipment to harnesses, as dummy cords to avoid losing small or important items, tying rucksacks to vehicle racks, securing camouflage nets to trees or vehicles, and so on. When threaded with beads, paracord may be used as a pace counter to estimate ground covered by foot. The yarns of the core (referred to as "the guts") can also be removed when finer string is needed, for instance as sewing thread to repair gear or fishing line in a survival situation. The nylon sheath is often used alone, the yarn in the core removed, when a thinner or less elastic cord is needed. Ends of the cord are almost always melted and crimped to prevent fraying.

In addition to its many utility functions, paracord can be used to tie knotted or braided lanyards, belts, and other items. 550 Cord is used by many US military members as a bracelet signifying deployment to the Central Command Area of Responsibility, typically countries in the Middle East. It is fashioned by using three equal lengths of cord and weaving them together to make a bracelet that is then secured with a looped end and a button from the Desert Camouflage Uniform.

Minimum Breaking Strength: 550 lb.
Minimum Elongation: 30%
Minimum Length Per Pound: 225 ft.
Core Yarn: 7

Spool Dimensions: 1/8" x 1200'
Paracord is sold by the foot only and in the increments listed below.

NO RETURNS, NO EXCHANGES, NO REFUNDS