Patrick Kelley
Unexpected Uses for Paracord
Every good prepper or outdoorsman knows that paracord can be one of the most useful tools. And if you’re not a good prepper or outdoorsman yet, that’s what we’re here for. Paracord can be used for an array of things that help and even save your life in the outdoors.
Do you know all of these uses for paracord?
- Shelter. Build a sturdy shelter by using paracord to tie a tarp or blanket to a tree. It’s also great for tying branches together for makeshift walls. If you find yourself running out of material, you can even use the inner strands of paracord to multiply the use. The inner threads have even been used as parachute cord, so you know it makes for a sturdy line.
- Fire. A bow drill is always a solid option to start a fire, and the flexible rope from a paracord is a great tool to create the bow for this method. Plus, depending on the materials used in your paracord, it’s likely at least relatively flammable and can give you something extra to burn if you’re running low.
- Raft. If you find yourself in a situation where you need a raft to survive on a body of water, you can use your paracord to tie branches together. Paracord is strong and will keep your raft together as you float. Keeping 250 feet of paracord is a good standard to carry with you, and you will be thankful you have it for situations like this.
- Fishing. Grab a stick, some paracord, and a hook, and you’ve got yourself a makeshift fishing line. You can even fray some paracord to create a fishing lure. Here is another trick that can come in handy with the inner strands of paracord. You can deconstruct it and use the nylon rope to make a fishing net.
- Tourniquet. In an emergency situation when you or someone with you suffers a traumatic injury, you’ll need a way to stop the bleeding and keep the victim alive. Put some padding underneath the paracord and create a tourniquet near the wound. Here’s a handy tutorial.
- Splint. Tie two branches together to create a splint and keep a victim’s leg from bending after an injury.
- Pulley. Paracord is extremely strong, so you can easily use it to transport large items either by dragging it or by creating a pulley system. This especially comes in handy when building shelter. Make sure you know the length of paracord you need for situations like this, and pack accordingly.
- Rucksack. You can easily tie your items together, creating a makeshift rucksack, and carry your things. A good knot to use is the monkey fist, which can be used to attach and hang smaller stuff.
- Firewood bundle. No one enjoys carrying firewood back to camp, but you can use paracord to bundle firewood together and transport it much easier.
Try finding a paracord survival bracelet that you can wear and always have some for survival situations! Paracord can help in so many ways and new methods are being thought of everyday, so it is always a good idea to update your education. We hope this sold you to keep some 1100 or 550 cord in your bug out bag or first aid kit for emergency situations.
What other paracord uses do you know of? Have you ever had to use paracord in a survival situation? Tell us about it in our Facebook group.Share on:
