All Paracord isn't the same!

[TAH]

Just received some paracord from http://www.ubraidit.com/ described as: "Super quality 650 nylon cord with nice body. Averages approx. 3/16" in diameter with four inner filler cords and has a 400 lb or better breaking strength." Yes, I know, only 4 inner cords, but I thought I'd give it a try. I wanted different colors.

Also got some from http://www.uscav.com/Productinfo.aspx?productid=8776&TabId=1 described as: "550 Type III Commercial Cord: A replication of the MIL-SPEC cord. This paracord is made from 100% Nylon fiber and features a 7 strands strong inner core."

There isn't much difference between the two. Both are somewhat "flat" and they don't burn very well at the ends. :thumbdn:

On Monday, I have some Intern'l Orange cord coming from http://www.countycomm.com/550cord.htm. I hope it's better.

A long time ago, I bought some black and OD cord that has a very dense, round body and I just can't seem to find cord that matchs its quality. :grumpy:

 

[Cougar Allen]

550 cord is not very round. Climbing stores have hard round cord about that size, or you might find something cheap that meets your needs, if you don't need a lot of strength.

 

[TAH]

The OD and black cord that I have is definitely "military paracord", but it is just more dense and keeps it round shape better when you squeeze it. However, it is not "hard" like climbing cord.

Randall knives supplies nice quality OD paracord that is dense, maybe I should give them a call.

 

[TPU]

Try: www.onestopknifeshop.com They have paracord, and mil-spec parachute cord. The mil-spec parachute cord is more expensive, but is stronger.

 

[TAH]

Thanks. I'll take a look.

 

[parnass]

A couple of weeks ago, I bought black, olive drab, and safety orange 550 paracord from Supply Captain:

http://www.supplycaptain.com/store/index.cfm?fuseaction=category.display&category_ID=6

From their web page:
"Our cord is real genuine US military issue 7 strand Kernmantle style 550 cord in 100 foot lengths conforming to MIL-C-5040 Type III. "

They mailed the merchandise the next day and I'm satisfied with the product.

 

[SIFU1A]

i like the cord from shomer-tec FWIW, quality & thickness/etc does vary some in diff brands imho.

 

[TAH]

I checked a piece of the OD paracord that Randall knives uses and it has 8 strands of inner cord.

 

[will62]

Brigade quartermasters has 3 different colors in the PX here in SW Asia. OD, Tan and Black except for the color it has the same number of inner cords as the spool of white cord I got from the supply system. Not sure if the tan or black is in the supply system or if it just meets mil-specs.

 

[TAH]

Yesterday, I received the County Comm Intern'l Orange paracord and this stuff has all the qualities I've been looking for. Good density, keeps its round shape even when squeezed, and the outer nylon tube seems to be more tightly woven and resistant to snags. :thumbup:

I guess it's just a difference in manufacturing.