Be Prepared for the Unexpected

You can’t predict the future, but you can prepare for it. Monkey Knuts® custom monkey fist keychains and survival paracord gear are
designed to provide you and your family with a sense of security for whatever life throws your way. Our functional paracord survival products
attach to your keys, gear bags and purses so that you always have what you need - when you need it! Remember, luck favors the prepared!
Home > Paracord Uses
Paracord Uses
Paracord (a.k.a. parachute cord or 550 cord) is a lightweight nylon rope originally used in the suspension lines of US parachutes during World War II. Soldiers would often cut the cord from their parachute and retain it for survival situations. Since then, paracord has not only been used by military, but has in recent years become an essential survival tool amongst civilians.

The most common paracord used today is type III commercial 550 paracord. Known for its strength, 550 paracord can support up to 550lbs. without breaking. As a kernmantle rope type, its interior core (the kern) is protected by a woven exterior sheath (or mantle) that optimizes strength, durability, and flexibility. The interior core consists of 14 individual strands of rope twisted in groups of two to form seven (35lbs.) strands. The exterior braided nylon outer sheath protects the cordage inside and is rated at about 305lbs. The union of the kern and mantle supports up to 550lbs. and is about the thickness of a shoelace. Although still used today for numerous military tasks, paracord has recently been utilized as a resourceful cord used to manufacture paracord keychains, paracord necklaces, survival bracelets, lanyards and many other functional survival and fashionable paracord products. Unraveled, these practical items can be used in an emergency and/or survival situation ranging from repairing a busted shoelace to first aid.



Because individual strands of 550 paracord can be easily removed from the sheath and combined into various configurations, this durable mildew resistant rope can be put to a wide variety of survival uses including but not limited to:
  • Snare trap
  • Fishing line
  • Shelter
  • Fishing net
  • String for fire bow
  • Bear bag (Hanging food up from wild animals)
  • Ridgelines for tarps
  • Securing equipment
  • Sewing fabric
  • Repairing equipment
  • String for a hunting bow
  • Clothesline
  • Anchor line
  • Binding
  • Twine
  • Tinder
  • Tooth Floss
  • Tourniquet
  • Splints
  • Tie downs
  • Stringer for fish
  • Rigging a survival shelter
  • Animal restraints
  • Shoelace replacements
  • Belt replacement
  • Stitches
...And many more uses!