Shock Cord

Shock Cord from Paracord Planet

Shock Cord

Finding flexibility in an uncompromising world

            Do you ever find yourself wishing your Paracord were just a bit softer or more flexible? One of the most common complaints we hear about Paracord is how it can be uncomfortable to wear at times, especially for young children. Additionally, customers often request a greater range of flexibility, explaining that while Paracord strength is tremendous, it does not offer much ‘give’ which can make it tough to work with both in the field and when making projects at home. So this week seems like a great week to highlight a Paracord product that has been one of the fastest trending subjects in the Paracord World lately, Shock Cord.         

Shock Cord is becoming increasingly popular as Paracorders are realizing all the possibilities this cord possesses. Shock Cord, which is also known as Bungee or Elastic Shock Cord is anywhere from 5%-25% smaller in diameter than standard 550 Paracord, thus it feels roughly the same to work with only ‘tighter’. Like most Paracord, it is surrounded by an abrasion, mildew and UV resistant Nylon sheath; the difference lies in the core. The heart of Shock Cord is a rubber core that provides approximately 100% elongation. The ‘bounce’ is clearly the most noticeable difference between standard Paracord and Shock Cord and can be just what is needed at times.

The famous 'Paracord Pete' of Paracord Planet

One of ‘those times’ is with a hammock. Paracord hammock’s are notorious for being a somewhat uncomfortable to lie on, the lack of flexibility in the Paracord can be harsh against the back. Similarly, Paracorder’s sometimes enjoy finding an old chair with the bottom worn out and replacing it with Paracord. In both these instances, Shock Cord is the ideal substitute for Paracord; Shock cord still possesses strength while its rubbery nature makes it far more comfortable to put weight on.

Frederick is being tied down with Shock Cord

The uses of Shock Cord go far beyond relaxing in the sunshine, if you enjoy camping, Shock Cord can be a great addition to your pack. Shock Cord is frequently used to make additional storage on packs, while storing extra cord through a daisy chain, which is essentially adding more loops to your pack; perfect for storing water bottles or a hatchet (Video Credit: Reality Survival) . It can be further used in camping to stow cargo whether it be in a canoe or at a campsite. And if you plan on hitting the water, sailors utilize Shock Cord all over the boat from stowing gear to tying down essential ropes.

Shock Cord has also found its way into the hearts of the brave Men and Women who serve this country. Members of the Military commonly use Shock Cord in their Boonie hats to hold foliage or ammunition in place. And to maximize the uses of shock cord, it can be a great replacement for the uncomfortable drawstring found in sweatpants, athletic shorts and other pants; shock cord will give you form-fitting comfort.

Image Credit: Stormdrane

So if you guys are ready to try a new cord that is changing the game, pick up some Shock Cord from the best retailer around Paracord Planet and our unparalleled selection of over 30 Shock Cord colors. As always, be sure to like our Facebook Page so you never miss one of our daily flash sales and please leave a comment letting me know what you are going to use shock cord for!

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!