Let’s Dive into TRU-SPEC Kevlar Rapid Deployment Spool Cord
The TRU-SPEC Kevlar Rapid Deployment Spool Cord is a compact and lightweight tool designed for survival, tactical, and outdoor applications. Manufactured by TRU-SPEC, this spool of Kevlar cord boasts a 200lb breaking strength, flame and abrasion resistance, and tangle-free deployment. Its affordability and potential versatility make it an intriguing addition to any prepper’s kit.
My interest in this product stemmed from a need for a reliable, space-saving cordage solution for my bug-out bag. Traditional paracord is bulky, and I wanted something stronger and more compact for tasks like creating snares, emergency repairs, or even improvised bowstrings. The promised flame resistance also appealed to me, given my experience with fire starting in survival scenarios.
Upon receiving the TRU-SPEC Kevlar Rapid Deployment Spool Cord, my initial impression was positive, though a bit underwhelming. The spool itself is small and unassuming, and the cord appears thin. The build quality seems decent enough for the price point, and the spool design looks like it will prevent tangles, which is a HUGE pet peeve of mine.
Compared to carrying, say, 50 feet of standard 550 paracord, the TRU-SPEC Kevlar Rapid Deployment Spool Cord is significantly smaller and lighter. Other options I considered included high-strength fishing line (lacks abrasion resistance) and Dyneema cord (more expensive). I ultimately chose the TRU-SPEC product for its balance of strength, size, and cost. My initial excitement was tempered by the cord’s apparent thinness, but I was eager to test its actual strength and durability.
Real-World Testing: Putting TRU-SPEC Kevlar Rapid Deployment Spool Cord to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the TRU-SPEC Kevlar Rapid Deployment Spool Cord on a weekend camping trip focused on bushcraft skills. This included setting up a simple A-frame shelter, creating a few small animal snares, and attempting to cut through a thick plastic zip tie using the cord’s abrasion resistance. The shelter building went smoothly; the cord held taught and didn’t fray under tension when tying off to branches.
While the TRU-SPEC Kevlar Rapid Deployment Spool Cord worked well for securing the shelter, I found the snare creation to be a little tricky. The cord’s thin diameter made it somewhat difficult to manipulate into the delicate trigger mechanisms of the snares. When attempting to cut the zip tie, I found that it took a lot of effort and created significant fraying of the cord.
The weather was dry and mild during my initial testing, so I couldn’t evaluate its performance in wet conditions. I was initially impressed by its strength relative to its size but found the fraying issue when cutting concerning. The ease of deployment from the spool was excellent, with no tangles whatsoever.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the TRU-SPEC Kevlar Rapid Deployment Spool Cord has proven to be a useful, though not indispensable, addition to my gear. I’ve used it for various tasks, from repairing a torn backpack strap to hanging a bear bag (with proper technique, of course). It shows very little wear and tear, which is impressive given its frequent use and thin diameter.
The cord does tend to fray if subjected to repeated abrasion, such as when sawing motions are applied. Maintaining the TRU-SPEC Kevlar Rapid Deployment Spool Cord is simple – just keep it dry and protected from sharp objects. I haven’t needed to repair it, but I suspect splicing would be challenging given the cord’s tight weave.
Compared to my experiences with paracord, the TRU-SPEC Kevlar Rapid Deployment Spool Cord offers superior strength-to-size ratio. However, it lacks the versatility of paracord’s inner strands and is more prone to fraying in certain applications. Overall, it’s a specialized tool that performs well within its intended purpose.
Breaking Down the Features of TRU-SPEC Kevlar Rapid Deployment Spool Cord
Specifications
The TRU-SPEC Kevlar Rapid Deployment Spool Cord consists of 60 feet of Kevlar cord. This provides ample length for various tasks while remaining compact.
It has a breaking strength of 200 lbs. This makes it suitable for tasks like setting snares, securing shelters, and emergency repairs, but not for heavy lifting.
The cord is constructed from Kevlar fiber. This material provides exceptional strength and abrasion resistance for its weight.
The spool design allows for rapid and tangle-free deployment. This ensures that the cord is readily available when needed without any hassle.
It is also flame-resistant. This adds a margin of safety in environments where open flames are present.
The 200lb breaking strength is adequate for most light-duty tasks, but it’s crucial to understand its limitations. The flame resistance provides a valuable safety feature. The rapid deployment spool is a major selling point, offering convenience and preventing frustrating tangles.
Performance & Functionality
The TRU-SPEC Kevlar Rapid Deployment Spool Cord performs admirably in situations where strength and compact size are paramount. It reliably holds knots and maintains its integrity under tension. The flame resistance is a definite plus, particularly around campfires.
Its strength to weight ratio is impressive. It allows you to carry a significant amount of cordage without adding substantial bulk or weight to your pack. However, its thin diameter can make it challenging to handle in intricate tasks, and it’s prone to fraying under abrasion.
The cord meets my expectations for strength and packability. It could be improved by increasing its diameter slightly to improve handling, even if that meant sacrificing some packability.
Design & Ergonomics
The TRU-SPEC Kevlar Rapid Deployment Spool Cord’s design is simple and functional. The spool is lightweight and easy to hold and operate. The cord itself is thin and flexible, but its tight weave provides surprising strength.
The user-friendliness is excellent. It requires no special skills or knowledge to deploy and use effectively. The spool design prevents tangles and ensures smooth dispensing of the cord.
The design is intuitive. The materials are appropriate for the intended use.
Durability & Maintenance
The TRU-SPEC Kevlar Rapid Deployment Spool Cord is reasonably durable for its size and construction. The Kevlar fibers are inherently strong and resistant to wear. However, prolonged exposure to UV light can degrade Kevlar over time, so storing it in a dark place is recommended.
Maintenance is minimal. Just ensure it stays dry and free of debris. Repairing frayed sections is possible with careful splicing, but it’s a delicate process.
With proper care, this spool of Kevlar cord should last for several years. It will depend on the frequency and intensity of use.
Accessories and Customization Options
No accessories are included with the TRU-SPEC Kevlar Rapid Deployment Spool Cord. There are no customization options available. However, it can be used in conjunction with various other survival and tactical gear.
The spool can be easily attached to a backpack or belt using a carabiner or lanyard. The cord can be used to create a variety of improvised tools and shelters.
This product is inherently simple and doesn’t lend itself to extensive customization. Its utility lies in its standalone functionality and compatibility with other gear.
Pros and Cons of TRU-SPEC Kevlar Rapid Deployment Spool Cord
Pros
- Exceptional Strength-to-Size Ratio: Offers high breaking strength in a compact and lightweight package.
- Rapid Deployment: Spool design prevents tangles and allows for quick access to the cord.
- Flame Resistant: Adds a valuable safety feature in fire-prone environments.
- Abrasion Resistant: Kevlar construction provides good resistance to wear and tear.
- Affordable: Offers excellent value for the price.
Cons
- Thin Diameter: Can be difficult to handle for intricate tasks.
- Prone to Fraying: Can fray under repeated abrasion or sawing motions.
Who Should Buy TRU-SPEC Kevlar Rapid Deployment Spool Cord?
The TRU-SPEC Kevlar Rapid Deployment Spool Cord is perfect for survivalists, preppers, backpackers, and anyone who values compact and reliable cordage. It’s ideal for inclusion in bug-out bags, first-aid kits, and general-purpose outdoor gear. This is a great option for campers who need strong, reliable cordage without adding significant weight to their pack.
This product might not be the best choice for heavy-duty construction or tasks requiring thick rope. Those who need a more general-purpose cordage solution might prefer traditional paracord.
A must-have accessory is a small knife or cutting tool for precise cord management. A carabiner or lanyard for attaching the spool to gear is also useful.
Conclusion on TRU-SPEC Kevlar Rapid Deployment Spool Cord
The TRU-SPEC Kevlar Rapid Deployment Spool Cord is a valuable addition to any outdoor or survival kit, offering a compelling combination of strength, packability, and convenience. While it has some limitations, such as its thin diameter and tendency to fray, its advantages outweigh these drawbacks for many applications.
At $15.99, the price is definitely justified. The strength and compact size you get for the price make it a worthwhile investment.
I would absolutely recommend the TRU-SPEC Kevlar Rapid Deployment Spool Cord to anyone looking for a lightweight and reliable cordage solution. Add this to your kit and be prepared for anything!