Paracord Uses

Paracord Uses: 550, 275, 325 & 750 Types

What paracord is used for — outdoor, craft and industrial — plus the type numbers explained and how to specify it.

QUICK ANSWER

Paracord is a lightweight braided nylon cord with a sheath over inner strands. The number is its breaking strength: 275 (~125 kg), 325 (~147 kg), 550 (~250 kg, the most popular) and 750 (~340 kg). It’s used for survival and outdoor gear, bracelets and crafts, and light industrial tie-downs.

Tekiş Lastik produces paracord constructions in Istanbul for textile, outdoor, accessory and general-purpose applications. Paracord is commonly classified in the market by construction, material and type designations. These generic type numbers should not be interpreted as the specifications or rated breaking strength of Tekiş products unless explicitly stated on the relevant product specification. Paracord is part of the wider cord family covered in our Types of Cord guide.

What is paracord?

Paracord (parachute cord) is a braided nylon cord with a smooth outer sheath protecting several inner yarns. It is light, strong for its size, and resists rot and mildew — which is why it moved from parachute lines into outdoor and everyday use. For how it compares to braided, twisted and elastic cord, see Types of Cord.

Common Paracord Type Designations: 275, 325, 550 and 750

Note: These are commonly used paracord type designations and are provided here for general reference. They do not represent the rated specifications or current stock range of Tekiş Lastik products. For current materials, diameters and product specifications, please refer to our Paracord product page.

TypeInner strandsTypical use
275Fewer / thinCrafts, light bracelets
325MidLanyards, light gear
5507The all-round standard
75011Heavy outdoor & load

550 (about 4 mm diameter) is by far the most popular — strong enough for most jobs and easy to work into bracelets and lashings.

What is paracord used for?

  • Outdoor & survival — shelter lines, lashings, gear repair, tent guy-lines.
  • Craft & accessories — bracelets, keychains, lanyards, dog leashes.
  • Everyday & industrial — tie-downs, bundling, zipper pulls, light rigging.
What Is Paracord

How to specify paracord for bulk orders

Specify the type (275–750), diameter, color and total length. We braid custom colors — solids, camo and two-tone — with private label, OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified, for craft brands, outdoor labels and pet-accessory makers.

FAQ

What does 550 paracord mean?
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550 is a commonly used paracord type designation. Different paracord types vary in construction, material, diameter and performance. The designation should not be treated as the rated strength of a Tekiş product unless that specification is explicitly confirmed for the relevant product.
What is the difference between 275, 550 and 750 paracord?
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275, 550 and 750 are commonly used paracord type designations representing different construction and performance classes. In general, lighter types use a smaller construction while heavier types are intended for more demanding applications. Actual performance depends on the material, construction and specific product.
What is paracord used for?
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Paracord is commonly used for outdoor equipment, shelter lines, lashings, gear organisation, bracelets, keychains, lanyards, dog accessories, zipper pulls, bundling and other general-purpose cord applications.
Is paracord strong?
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Paracord can provide relatively high strength for its size, but actual performance depends on the material, construction, diameter and specific product. A generic paracord type designation should not be interpreted as a tested or guaranteed breaking strength for a Tekiş product.
📦 Need paracord in your colors?
550 and other types, custom colors and private label, OEKO-TEX certified — free sample, written quote within 24 hours.