The humble paracord bracelet isn’t just a piece of survival gear or a fashion statement; it’s a potential business opportunity for the savvy outdoors enthusiast. This guide will walk you through how to start a business selling paracord bracelets, from the initial design phase to selling your products online and in physical stores.
Understanding Paracord Bracelets
Origins and Military Use
Paracord bracelets trace their origins to World War II, when parachute cord, or ‘paracord‘, was used as suspension lines for parachutes. This cord was quickly recognized for its versatility and strength, leading soldiers to carry it for field use. Today, these bracelets are emblematic of preparedness, a tribute to their military heritage.
Anatomy of a Survival Tool
A typical paracord bracelet is made from Type III paracord, also known as 550 cord, which denotes its minimum breaking strength of 550 pounds. This lightweight nylon kernmantle rope is composed of a multi-strand core protected by a woven exterior, providing high tensile strength and durability.
Paracord Bracelet Variations
While the classic paracord bracelet design is simple, there is a variety of patterns that cater to aesthetic and functional preferences. The ‘cobra’ stitch is a beginner-friendly pattern, while ‘snake knot’, ‘king cobra’, and ‘trilobite’ offer more complexity and strength. Bracelets can also include features like compasses, fire starters, and even fishing gear, enhancing their utility as survival tools.
Cultural Impact and Popularity
The rise in popularity of paracord bracelets has transcended their survival utility. They have become a symbol within the survivalist and outdoor communities, indicative of a rugged, self-sufficient lifestyle. This popularity has been bolstered by media representation in survival TV shows and movies, further integrating these bracelets into the cultural fabric of outdoor enthusiasts.
Practical Applications
Beyond their use in a survival situation, these bracelets are worn for everyday tasks. The paracord can be unraveled to repair torn gear, create makeshift shoelaces, or even secure cargo. The practicality of having several feet of strong cord accessible at all times has made these bracelets a staple in EDC (Everyday Carry) kits for many.
The Durability and Versatility of Paracord Bracelets
High-Quality Material for Extreme Conditions
The paracord used in these bracelets is a lightweight nylon rope with a high number of interwoven strands, giving it its exceptional strength. It’s resistant to mildew and rot, making it ideal for use in all weather conditions. Originally used in parachute lines, its durability is proven and trusted.
Survival Situations and Emergency Uses
In survival situations, the paracord bracelet comes into its own. It can be unraveled and used for a variety of purposes, from constructing shelters to creating fishing lines or snares.
Everyday Practicality
For non-emergency situations, paracord bracelets can serve countless practical purposes. Whether securing items to a backpack, acting as a tourniquet, or even just providing a sturdy line for hanging wet clothes while camping, the bracelet’s cord is as practical in daily life as it is in survival scenarios.
Innovative Add-Ons for Enhanced Utility
Manufacturers have begun adding small but significant features to paracord bracelets such as fire starters, whistles, and compasses, further increasing their value as a multi-tool. These features can be critical in a survival situation and offer peace of mind when venturing into the outdoors.
Crafting Your Own Paracord Bracelet
DIY Paracord Bracelets: A Hands-On Project
Creating your own paracord bracelet is a rewarding DIY project. It not only provides a personalized piece of equipment but also gives you the practical experience of handling and knotting paracord, which can be beneficial in survival situations.
Essential Tools and Materials
Apart from the paracord, you’ll need a few basic tools: a paracord bracelet buckle, scissors, a lighter, and possibly a paracord needle or fid. These tools will help you measure, cut, and seal your paracord as well as assist in weaving intricate bracelet patterns.
Learning Basic Knots and Weaves
The most fundamental part of crafting a bracelet is learning the knots and weaves. The Cobra weave is one of the most popular patterns for beginners, while the Solomon bar and Snake knot provide more advanced options. Online tutorials and videos can guide you through each step of these knots.
Finishing Touches
Once you’ve woven your bracelet, it’s time to finish it off. This usually involves cutting the excess paracord and sealing the ends by melting them with a lighter. This not only prevents fraying but also secures any loose ends, ensuring the bracelet remains intact during rigorous activities.
The Multifunctionality of Paracord Bracelets
Paracord Bracelet as a Survival Multi-Tool
A paracord bracelet is often hailed as the ultimate survival accessory. Beyond its basic function as a length of durable cordage on your wrist, it can be unraveled and employed in various emergency situations. Paracord’s versatility makes it an indispensable tool for any survivalist.
Medical Emergencies: More Than Just a Bracelet
In a pinch, a paracord bracelet can be used as an improvised tourniquet to control severe bleeding, as a sling to support a broken limb, or even as a makeshift stretcher when braided to create more strength. It’s important to understand how to use paracord in these scenarios correctly.
Shelter Building with Paracord
When constructing emergency shelters, the cord can be used to tie branches together, secure tarps, or even assist in building a raft. Its lightweight and strength are ideal for creating a sturdy and protective environment against the elements.
Crafting Tools and Traps
Paracord can be used to craft a variety of survival tools. Whether it’s a fishing line, a snare trap, or a bow drill for fire starting, the internal strands of paracord can be separated and utilized accordingly, making it a multifunctional survival asset.
Signal for Help
The brightly colored versions of paracord bracelets can serve as signaling devices to rescue crews. When disassembled, the paracord can be laid out on the ground to create large visible signals or used to suspend reflective materials or lights to catch the attention of rescuers.
Navigational Aid: Paracord Compass Bracelets
Some paracord bracelets come equipped with built-in compasses. However, even without a compass, knowing how to use a paracord along with natural indicators can help determine direction and assist in land navigation.
Final Thought: Prepared for Any Challenge
Carrying a paracord bracelet means being prepared for a wide range of challenges. From first aid to rescue, these bracelets are not just a part of your kit—they embody the spirit of readiness and resourcefulness that is central to survivalism.
Creative and Practical Uses of Paracord Bracelets
Fashion Meets Functionality
Paracord bracelets aren’t just for survival; they have made their way into the world of fashion with their rugged charm. They can be customized with various colors and weaves, making them stylish accessories that serve a practical purpose.
DIY Paracord Projects
For the crafty survivalist, a paracord bracelet can be the starting point for numerous DIY projects. From creating belts and dog collars to camera straps and keychains, the possibilities are endless. There are online tutorials available that offer step-by-step instructions for various projects.
Paracord in Everyday Carry (EDC)
Integrating paracord into your everyday carry gear can elevate your preparedness. It can be used to wrap knife handles, create lanyards for flashlights, or secure gear for backpacks. Its presence in your EDC ensures you’re never without strong cordage.
Outdoor and Camping Utility
Paracord bracelets shine in outdoor settings. They can secure tents, repair broken straps, and even hang food away from wildlife. Their use extends beyond emergency situations, serving as an essential tool in any outdoor adventure.
Teaching and Learning Tool
For educators in survival skills and bushcraft, paracord bracelets can be excellent teaching tools. They demonstrate knot-tying techniques, and cordage making, and can be unraveled to teach the principles of weaving and braiding.
FAQ
Q1: Can paracord bracelets really be used in survival situations?
A: Absolutely. Paracord bracelets are made from the same type of nylon cord used in parachutes, which is known for its durability and strength. They can be unraveled and used in various survival scenarios, such as building shelters, repairing gear, or fishing.
Q2: How much weight can a paracord bracelet hold?
A: Standard paracord, also known as 550 cord, can hold up to 550 pounds of weight. However, the actual weight a paracord bracelet can bear will depend on the weave and the length of the cord used.
Q3: Are there different types of paracord?
A: Yes, there are several types of paracord, each with different strength and durability properties. The most common type used for bracelets is Type III, which is also referred to as 550 cord.
Q4: How do you make a paracord bracelet?
A: Making a paracord bracelet involves weaving or braiding paracord into a compact and wearable form. There are various patterns and instructions available online to help you create your own.
Q5: How do you determine the length of paracord you need for a bracelet?
A: A general rule of thumb is to use about 1 foot of paracord for every 1 inch of bracelet length. So for a 7-inch bracelet, you’d start with around 7 feet of paracord.
Conclusion
Starting a paracord bracelet business can be a rewarding venture for those passionate about the outdoors and survival gear. By following this guide, from sourcing materials to selling your final product, you’ll be equipped to weave your path to success in the paracord business.
