Paracord (550)

Purpose

Pitch tarps, hang food, lash gear, replace laces, and improvise repairs.

Used in kits

• Basic Vehicle Emergency Kit

  Vehicle

• Compact Camping Kit

  Camping

• Bushcraft Fire Kit

  Bushcraft

• MYOG Field Repair Kit

  MYOG

Alternatives

• Bank line (tarred)— Bushcraft favorite; knots hold better, packs smaller.
• Dyneema cord— Stronger and lighter for guylines; slippery knots.

Maintenance notes

• Inspect for core damage after load-bearing use.
• Melt cut ends to stop fraying.

Buying considerations

• "550" is a strength class, not a brand — check for a 7-strand nylon core.
• 25–50 ft is plenty for most kits.