Paracord and Personality

Paracord and Personality

Which Paracord are you?

For the past few months I have been bringing you as many great Paracord ideas and Paracord products as I can find, but today we take a step back. We offer a huge variety of Paracord here at Paracord Planet ranging from 750 to Nano cord and everything in between and receive plenty of amazing feedback from you guys every day. But have you ever stopped to think why you buy the particular Paracord that you buy? Sure you say: “Because I want to make one awesome bracelet,” which is definitely true. But have you ever wondered what your Paracord selection said about you, or better yet, what Paracord you are?

This might be a long shot, but I believe your Paracord says a lot about who you are as a person, essentially, certain Paracord reflects a certain personality. Much in the same way you can take a quiz to find out “What Game of Thrones character are you?” you should be able to discover what Paracord type you are, based on how you respond to a few behavioral based quiz questions. If only a quiz of this magnitude existed…

Introducing our first-ever Paracord personality quiz “Which Paracord are you?” This will reveal your Paracord Personality analog. As a result, you might discover a new Paracord you have never tried before and in the process find out something totally new about yourself! Are you reliable Mil-Spec or flashy Glow-In-The-Dark? Take the quiz to find out and feel free to leave a comment below to let us know if you think it was right. Also, stop by our Facebook page and ‘Like’ it to get all the latest and greatest deals!

The Monkey Fist

Image Source: Troy Criswell

The History of the Monkey Fist

Self-defense essential or handy lanyard? YES.

            You have all seen them. Sometimes with spikes, sometimes a ball bearing, probably at the end of the lanyard; the Monkey fist has a rich history rooted in practicality at sea. Sometimes seen as a self-defense gimmick today, it can be easy to forget where the Monkey Fist came from and some of the practical applications it possesses. I am here to show you a little about this historical knot and explain how it can be useful to more people than simply your friendly neighborhood ninja.

Image Source: Pprune.org

            Like many historical knots, the Monkey Fist began at sea as a way to ease the impossibly hard lives of sailors. The Monkey Fist was traditionally tied at the end of a light weight ‘heaving’ line to enable the sailor to easily throw it on shore or to another boat. The knot was frequently wrapped around a rock or a piece of wood to add weight to make it easier to throw. This simple knot actually significantly changed the lives of sailors, because they had previously been subject to working with heavy, extremely cumbersome ropes that were difficult to throw.

Image Source: Gattling-Gun.com

 Naturally, sailors saw the dual-capacity of the Monkey Fist to also be a weapon, calling it the ‘Slungshot.’ Surprisingly effective, the Slungshot was on a much shorter length of rope than the Monkey Fist and was tied around the hand, similar to the way in which many people wield their Paracord Monkey Fist today. The Slungshot continued to be adapted to fit its surroundings because of its simplicity and was used widely by organized crime up until the depression era; variations included the infamous ‘Black Jack.’

Image Source: Rockclimbing.com

Modern applications of the Monkey Fist are as varied as its history. Today, a Monkey Fist can be found wedged in the crack of rock face for a climber, falling from a plane as parachute pull or simply lying in someone’s purse. The great versatility of the Monkey Fist is what makes it such a great knot that really allows the creator to be highly unique. Whether spikes and golf ball are your inclination or you have a proclivity for steel ball bearings, the Monkey Fist is easy to make your own. The Monkey Fist has also never been easier to tie or customize, check out our jigs and ball bearings to get started today!

Image Source: ParacordPlanet.com

Thank you so much for reading, whether you enjoyed it or hated it feel free to leave a comment below or share with your friends. And as always, ‘Like’ our Facebook page for all the latest deals and Paracord news!

Author’s Note: The Monkey Fist is also said to get its name from the way a Monkey Strikes

Polyester Paracord

Image Source: Paracord Planet

Polyester Paracord

This week we breakdown Polyester Paracord, is it really just an afterthought to Nylon?

            I have written about unknown and misunderstood products in the past, but perhaps none are quite as maligned as Polyester Paracord. Polyester has long been considered the black sheep of the Paracord family with no real home, always playing second-fiddle to Nylon. The general public assumes Polyester Paracord must in some way be inferior, but today I will explain that although they have their differences, it is how you use the Paracord that determines its value. You may want to start adding Polyester to your Paracord adventures immediately.

Image Source: Camping Life

            So what are the real differences between Polyester and Nylon Paracord? The first characteristic Paracorders notice when working with the two cords is the difference in feel. Many users believe Polyester is ‘rough’, making it less comfortable to work with. I am not here to say anyone is incorrect in feeling this way, only to point out that my marketing intern hands have no problem working with it. There is a difference in the material texture, but in my opinion it is slight and certainly does not impair the use of Polyester Paracord.

            Another difference the user will notice is the ‘stretch’; this is not necessarily a negative characteristic, in fact, depending on how the cord is being used, it can be a definite positive. Nylon has far more ‘give’ or stretch than Polyester; thus both are highly practical, depending on the situation. In instances where elasticity is a necessity such as mooring lines on a sailing vessel, Nylon is preferred. On the contrary, when hoisting supplies as most campers do to keep them away from bears; Polyester Paracord is preferable because it will not stretch out overnight.

            The last key difference between Polyester and Nylon is the price. Both cords are extremely competitively priced from Paracord Planet with Nylon at $9.25/100 ft hank and Polyester costing $8.49/100 ft hank, but Polyester has the added incentive of saving you around $4 every 500 feet! Add the price difference to the fact that like Nylon Paracord, Polyester Paracord does not rot, and you can begin to see the merit of Polyester.

Image Source: Paracord Planet

            Ultimately, when choosing your Paracord it is imperative to have a clear picture of what you intend to use it for. Paracord planet offers eight different types of Paracord ranging from standard 550 Nylon to 550 Polyester and Micro Cord so you will be properly outfitted for every project. It is important to keep in mind the weight tests of each Paracord you are considering as well as the difference in elasticity to make sure you will not be surprised by anything. Make sure you think of Polyester when considering your next Paracord Project!

Please comment below with your thoughts on Polyester or any other type of Paracord you like to use and be sure to ‘Like’ our Facebook Page to stay up to date on all the best daily deals!

Paracord, a Look Back

Image Source: Kiss 925

Paracord, a Look Back

Paracord has taken quite a journey to get to where it is today

            “What walks down stairs, alone or in pairs, and makes a slinkity sound?” Sound familiar? This famous jingle belonged to the Slinky, one of the most beloved children’s toys of all time; the Slinky shares a very similar lineage with Paracord. Both the Slinky and Paracord began their life in service to the Military, but became immensely popular consumer products over time. The Slinky was born out of Richard James’ desire to develop a naval battleship horsepower meter using tension wire, when he dropped the wire he noticed how it kept bouncing and moving forward and the rest, as they say, is history. Similarly, Parachute Cord began its life in the Military well before it was popular worldwide and the famous sobriquet ‘Paracord’ was born.

            Originally used in Parachute suspension, the utilitarian ability of Paracord was quickly realized and spread throughout the entire military. Military units understood the litany of uses Paracord possessed and used it to greatly simplify their lives. Paracord was a workhorse, being used for everything from dummy cord to keep track of random equipment to pant fastener; in addition to tying down pretty much anything and everything. Once the cord was split open the fibers were also frequently used to stitch torn garments and the gutted Paracord was used as boot laces.

Image Source: Space Telescope

Following Paracord’s WWII genesis, Paracord swiftly became popular in the civilian world among outdoorsman. However, it was never really in the national spotlight until NASA brought it to the nation’s attention. In 1997, during STS-82 the Space Shuttle Discovery’s 22^nd flight, Paracord was used in congruence with Teflon coated copper wire and Velcro to repair tears in the Hubble telescope’s insulation material. If nothing else, NASA’s incredible use of Paracord served to verify the cord’s prowess and establish it as preeminent survival gear.

Fast forward to today, Paracord represents a rapidly growing industry that is beginning to permeate the national conscience as an everyday product. As might be expected when a product as functional as Paracord becomes globally popular, an incredible number of uses have been realized. Uses range from your typical survivalist carrying daisy chains of the stuff to be ready to make a snare, lean-to, or splint at a moment’s notice to veritable fashion industry. Paracord can now be bought in every form from bracelet to belt and appeals to every demographic. Paracord’s home use has expanded to include dog collars, horse bridles and water bottle cozies.

Image Source: Customer Submissions

As a product, Paracord has diversified from the most popular 550 lb test Military designation MIL-C-5040 III to include 425 lb test, Polyester and Micro Paracord. All of these varying styles have different sizes and weight limits, however most are available in a variety of colors. Colors are perhaps the category in which Paracord has exhibited the greatest growth; originally being offered with minimal variation from olive drab, Paracord Planet offers over 300 colors ranging from solid colors to glow in the dark.

Image Source: Paracord Planet

It is evident Paracord has taken quite the journey to get to where it is today, but I for one am glad that it has. Paracord continues to grow in recognition and product diversity and will only gain popularity as more uses are discovered.

Thanks for reading, if you would like to share where you think Paracord is headed next or any of your thoughts on Paracord, please comment below. If you enjoyed this article please share it and as always be sure to check our Facebook page for the latest Paracord deals.

             

The Paracord Olympics

The Paracord Olympics

Wishing you could do an Olympic event? Now you can with our Paracord Olympics!

            Every two years the world is blessed with what is arguably the greatest sporting event on our planet, the Olympics. Tomorrow, the 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi begin and it forced me to think about what events I would most like to compete in. Naturally, when you have Paracord woven (pun intended) into your life as much as I do, your thought lines converge and I began to wonder what Paracord Projects were analogous with specific Winter Olympic events. Here are a few of the best. (If you are looking for some patriotic Paracord kits, look no further than right here!).

Olympic: Figure Skating 

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Paracord: The Celtic Heart Knot (TIAT)

   

Image Source: AP/ TIAT

            Although figure skating is not my personal favorite, according to a recent poll by US News Figure skating is the most watched sport in the Winter Olympics. With that in mind, I do think figure skating is incredibly elegant and graceful. Figure skating takes strength, but also extreme muscle control and grace, somewhat akin to the Celtic Heart Knot by TIAT. This knot can be tricky, but don’t go Tanya Harding; if you pay careful attention to the instructions you will come away with an elegant knot that is great for a necklace or bracelet. Try our Rose Pink, or any of our other 300+ colors!

Olympic: Speed Skating 

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Paracord: Quick Deploy Bracelet

   

Image Source: AP/Para King

            Watching Speed Skating with Apolo Anton Ohno has to be one of my favorite Olympic Activities. If you have never had the opportunity to watch, it is somewhat akin to sprinting in track except that the athletes all share one lane and have giant razor blades attached to their feet. It is an awe-inspiring combination of strength and determination. Ohno is one of the most decorated speed skaters in U.S. Olympic history and has been in his fair share of spills, but he always comes out on top. That is where I drew the comparison to a Quick Deploy Bracelet, the one pictured here is created with 100% Paracord Planet Paracord by the Para King and can be fast and taken apart faster to have a large amount of Paracord readily available in an instant.

Olympic: Biathlon 

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Paracord: Making a Gun Sling

  

Image Source: Ammoland/TACummings

            The Biathlon has to be one of the most unique events in all of sports. Born of Northern European hunting tradition, the discipline combines the endurance of cross-country with the precision of a world-class marksmanship competition. I found its closest analogy to be that of crafting a Paracord gun sling (video from gearsNtools). Similar to the cross-country aspect of the Biathlon, creating a Paracord rifle sling creates an incredible amount of patience in pursuit of a bigger dream. They also draw on firearm technology in that the Biathlon uses some of the most precise firearms in the world and slings serve to protect and make using your firearms as comfortable to use as possible. If you do endeavor to make a gun sling, keep in mind the cross country aspect of the Biathlon and stay patient, the results will be well worth it.

Olympic: Hockey 

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Paracord: Monkey’s Fist

  

Image Source: Sports Illustrated/Para King

            Few events in Olympic history are as iconic as the moment pictured above, The ‘Miracle’. In 1980, viewed as unimaginable underdogs going into the Semifinal against the seemingly unbeatable Russians, Team USA came up with one of the greatest upsets in the history of modern sports. Team USA went on to win gold and as sports so often do, the significance of the victory transcended the game and had major political implications as the U.S. was still in the middle of the Cold War. Just as Hockey is a game of intricate play design and huge hits the Paracord Monkey’s Fist represents both skill and power. Designed to emulate the unique way in which monkeys whip their arm when striking, the Monkey’s Fist is more than just a neat key-chain, but a capable self-defense weapon in dangerous situations. The weave is not overly difficult to do, but the project is far easier to complete with a Monkey Fist jig from Paracord Planet where you can find all necessary supplies, including ball bearings (The pictured Monkey's Fist is created by Para King using Paracord Planet Paracord).

Olympic: Curling 

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Paracord: Ultimate Survival Bracelet

  

Image Source: CBS

            Alas Curling, one of the most maligned sports in the Olympics for being simply put: ‘strange’. As a native Minnesotan, Curling holds a special place in my heart (Minnesota is a Curling powerhouse!), I myself have never participated, but respect the sport and those athletes that participate in it. People may not see the connection between Curling and Paracord, but trust me it is there. Curling is very unique in the range of skills is requires, teams must be athletic enough to push the rock precisely down the ice at a specific target, but must also have an excellent grasp of strategy and tactics. Curling simply has so many variables ranging from strength to knowing how hard to sweep to which rocks to aim for, that you really need to be prepared for anything. That is why it compares favorably with the idea of the ultimate survival bracelet. Pick Paracord, your array of survival buckles such as a compass, whistle or storage container from Paracord Planet and any Paracord weave you want and make the Ultimate Survival Bracelet so you will always be prepared. (And try Curling!).

I hope after reading this you feel inspired to take on some of these Olympic challenges, maybe while you cheer on Team USA? As always, please like our Facebook page and comment with the Olympic Paracord challenges you are taking on! Let the games begin!

Keep it Together Man: The Spool Tool

Keep it Together Man: The Spool Tool

This week I bring you one of the newest and most exciting products on the Paracord Market, the ‘Spool Tool’

In some of my previous blogs I explained that when I work with Paracord, it is something akin to bull in a china shop.   Now although I may be bigger and less nimble than most, I know that certain Paracord difficulties are universal, one of which is tangling. Tangling can happen really anytime you are working with Paracord from initially cutting the right amount to most notably transporting and storing it. The Spool Tool is changing all of this once and for all.

As the Spool Tool website explains: “… I noticed the difficulties everyone was having with the Paracord unraveling, getting tangled up, knotting, and generally becoming a big pain to handle.” Anyone who has worked with Paracord knows this to be true. The Spool Tool takes it a step past simply holding Paracord (up to 100 ft of 550 Paracord!), by also providing a blade, fusion notches and a lighter holder. This essentially makes the Spool Tool a ‘One Stop Shop’ that can be easily clipped to any sort of backpack or sack.

The Spool Tool blade is removable, making it highly versatile in case you ever need to sharpen it or replace it for any reason. Regardless of if you are in your garage or out in a windblown field, the eight fusion notches are designed to make holding Paracord in place a breeze. The lighter holder keeps a Bic® mini lighter in place for ending or fusing the Paracord at a moment’s notice. The Spool Tool embodies the idea of being prepared and is at its best when you are working in the field. Personally, I find it comforting to know that Paracord and all the necessary tools for it are all easily accessible in any situation.

If you are interested in getting a Spool Tool for your Paracord tool set, pick them up at Paracord Planet, on sale now!

As always, for the latest deals check out our Facebook page and of course share and comment!

COUPON CODE: spooltoolblog

The Jig is Up

The Jig is Up

Why using a Paracord Jig might be just the thing for your next Paracord Project.

Every week I try to highlight a product that is either new, innovative or something I think is being overlooked, this week it is Paracord Jigs. Whether I get asked directly or see it on the internet, people are wondering if they should be using a Paracord jig or if it is just for the experts/professionals out there. That decision is of course up to you, but I will highlight some of the utilitarian benefits of Paracord jigs and explain why they are appropriate for everyone to use.

For those of you who don’t already know, a Paracord jig looks like this:

The jig is designed to help assist in making different Paracord projects by holding cord in place so you are free to use both hands. The jig also has a ruler which enables you to get the exact right amount of cord for your project. I am a bigger guy with bigger hands and when I work with Paracord it can look like something out of Of Mice and Men; the Paracord Jig provide a nice stable base from which to work. Having made Paracord products both ways, I have found using a jig makes a world of difference for me.

Although they may be a slightly price-prohibitive compared with other Paracord projects, Jigs are also extremely versatile and if you plan on Paracording into the future I strongly suggest picking one up. Whether it is a bracelet, gun sling, or monkey’s fist, Paracord jigs can make your life a lot easier and more organized. If you plan on doing any sort of professional Paracord projects, even if it is just selling bracelets at school, I strongly encourage you to grab a jig to really make your measurements as precise as possible. Paracord Planet has a great selection and happens to be having a sail currently going on, so hop over and find the right jig for you!

As always, be sure to check Paracord Planet's Facebook page for the latest deals, share and comment and let me know what kind of amazing projects you have made with a jig!

Dream Weaver: Sam's Six Favorite Paracord Weaves

Dream Weaver: Sam’s Six Favorite Paracord Weaves

I have blogged about great Paracord products, gear and ideas in the past; this week I take a little time to point out a few of my favorite weave patterns.

Image Source: Tangled Knot Designs

        Shark Jaw Bone

Selfishly, this one occupies the top spot based on pure aesthetics. I think this bracelet has a very sleek, aggressive look to it, something that can be hard to capture in Paracord Products at times. You can easily learn to make it here from the experts at TIAT. As always, I recommend taking advantage of Paracord Planet's amazing color selection to be sure you find the perfect colors.

Quick Deploy

In contrast to my first indulging ranking, this one is based purely on functionality, which after all, lies at the core of every Paracord project. This weave pattern enables you to quickly deploy your Paracord in a matter of mere moments—the perfect bracelet to carry on all of your adventures. The video by YouTube user paradudeaz offers a great tutorial on how make one of your own. Paracord and shackles can be found at Paracord Planet. 

Extreme Weave (Trilobite Bar)

This is another weave that wins mainly on appearance.The almost-striped pattern is extremely unique and as a sports fanatic, a fresh red and white weave really reminds me of baseball. 

Image Source: Paracord Planet

 It is also a very flat weave making it very comfortable to wear (even as I type this incredible blog) so you never need to take it off. DIY kits for this weave and others are available from Paracord Planet. If further instruction is needed TIAT offers a video that helps explain in great detail.

Triple Cobra

As an avid hunter I am licking my chops for hunting season (figuratively for hunting, literally for lunch break) because this year I am going to be making several Paracord slings for my rifle and shotgun. There is a plethora of ways to make them out there, but this video by YouTube user gearsNtools shows the best weave, the triple cobra. As a hunter who has had his fair share of poor quality slings over the years a strong, broad sling that doesn’t dig into your shoulder is ideal. Not to mention it will not rot or mildew and in a pinch I have quite a bit of Paracord on hand! A great selection of high-quality camo Paracord can be found here. 

Image Source: TACummings

Switchback Path Bar

The Switchback Path Bar weave makes the list not only because it reminds me of mountainous switchback roads as I stare over the plains of North Dakota, but also for its incredible design. 

Image Source: TIAT

The switchback is extremely appealing to the eye, offering an intricate, recognizable, multicolor design. It also is unique in the elasticity of the bracelet offered by the special weave. Be sure to check out TIAT’s video on how to tie it.

Sailor/Turk’s Head Knot

Image Source: WhatKnotShop

The Turk’s Head Weave is an awesome weave that offers one of the most ornamental Paracord designs possible. As the young woman in the video explains, for all of you ladies out there looking for a great summer bracelet, this weave will replace that short-lived hemp bracelet. Paracord abounds with longevity because it will never rot or mildew no matter how much time you spend in the sun or water this summer. As a guy, I also think the Turks head looks terrific when made with masculine colors. In addition to its use as a bracelet, it can also be used as a can coozie or coffee holder.

As always, be sure to check Paracord Planet's Facebook page for the latest deals, share and comment and let me know what your favorite weave is!

Beating the Boot Blues

Beating the Boot Blues

A simple answer to an age old problem.

            I put my boots away last night and thought to myself for likely the tenth time: I wonder how long these laces will last. If you are like me, the laces on your boots are about as reliable as cell phone coverage in Western North Dakota; no matter the quality of the boot, your laces never last. After a few weeks of trudging through water or snow followed by subsequent drying in my home, my laces look like something that should be found in a sarcophagus. When I tie them I inevitably am left with a chalky residue and as the rabbit rounds the tree and is heading for home, they are sure to snap.

            Well I have had enough, and am doing something I should have ages ago: replacing my regular laces with Paracord. For all of you out there who have not done so already, it is time to replace your footwear laces with Paracord laces. Whether they are snow boots, hunting boots, or the latest Jordan’s, your footwear could use a lace upgrade. And for all you weekend warriors out there, Paracord makes a great replacement laces for hockey laces which are constantly getting cut in the locker room or any football cleat out there. Paracord is incredibly strong and will never rot or mildew, regardless of if you are trudging through the North Dakota snow or going for an evening run in a normal-climate state, Paracord has your back.

            The reliability of Paracord laces are only matched by its style and practicality.  Standard Paracord 550 is available from Paracord Planet in over 300 incredible colors. Ranging from ‘Acid Brown’ and ‘Arctic Camo’ for those boots to ‘Starburst’ for your latest Nike Frees, Paracord Planet has your Paracord lace needs covered (be sure to check out the color chart for the full selection). Additionally, there is always the added benefit of every Paracord product: survival. Paracord is a great item to have on you, especially in the outdoors because you never know when an emergency situation might occur and you might need some strong cord to fasten a shelter or splint.

As always, be sure to check Paracord Planet's Facebook page for the latest deals, share and comment!

Knottology Illuminator: Lighting up Your World

Knottology Illuminator: Lighting up Your World

How a little buckle can make a big difference in your Paracord world.

As I was struggling to see the keyhole of my home and had to first pull off my gloves in -20 degree weather and then fish around for my phone as my fingers slowly lost feeling, I thought to myself: There has to be a better way. Upon returning to work the next day I was looking through some of the products and realized the answer was right in front of me, the Knottology IlluminatorBuckle. This little buckle incorporates a light into a standard metal buckle for one terrific tool.

Completely unobtrusive, the Illuminator is only slightly larger than a standard buckle and possesses a surprisingly bright 15 lumen LED light. The light can be easily accessed from a button conveniently located on top of the buckle that can be pressed by even the most heavily gloved hand (trust me!). Housed in a sturdy, water resistant metal body this little light can handle any adventure you can, yet it is still practical for everyday use (such as saving a few fingers). As a hunter I am also thrilled about having a small convenient light when I need it, especially as I fumble around my pack for my flashlight.

I personally plan on incorporating this into my next Paracord bracelet as well as my key lanyard. I appreciate the fact that the Illuminator is available in three different colors (Silver, Gun Grey and Black) from Paracord Planet, making it easy to incorporate into almost any color scheme or camo pattern.

At $10.99, the mighty little Knottology Illuminator Buckle is a product I have become fascinated with and believe should be incorporated onto pretty much every Paracord anything.

As always, be sure to check Paracord Planet's Facebook page for the latest deals, share and comment!

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