BLUE MIDNIGHT 550 PARACORD 100′ Review

First Thoughts on the BLUE MIDNIGHT 550 PARACORD 100′

550 Paracord is a staple in the outdoor and tactical communities, a versatile tool that has earned its place in survival kits, everyday carry setups, and countless DIY projects. When I came across the BLUE MIDNIGHT 550 PARACORD 100′, I was drawn to its vibrant color and the promise of robust construction, all at an incredibly affordable price of $5.99. Could this be a reliable, high-quality option, or just another cheap imitation?

I’ve been using paracord for over a decade, from rigging emergency shelters to crafting durable dog leashes, and I’ve seen the good, the bad, and the downright dangerous when it comes to quality. My primary need was to replenish my depleted emergency kit and have some reliable cordage for general camp use.

Unboxing the BLUE MIDNIGHT 550 PARACORD 100′, my initial impression was positive. The Blue Midnight color is striking and even, giving it a professional look. The cord felt substantial and well-woven, without the tell-tale signs of cheap manufacturing, like loose strands or a flimsy core.

I’ve previously used paracord from brands like Atwood Rope MFG and Titan Paracord, both known for their quality and durability. While those brands are excellent, they come at a premium. The BLUE MIDNIGHT 550 PARACORD 100′ offered a similar feel at a fraction of the cost, and I was eager to see if its performance would match its appearance. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping it would be a budget-friendly alternative without sacrificing essential qualities.

Real-World Testing: Putting BLUE MIDNIGHT 550 PARACORD 100′ to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the BLUE MIDNIGHT 550 PARACORD 100′ was during a weekend backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it to rig a bear bag for food storage and to create a makeshift clothesline for drying damp gear. The cord handled both tasks with ease.

The smooth texture and consistent diameter made knot tying straightforward, even with gloved hands in the chilly morning air. It did not appear to stretch excessively under load. There were no immediate signs of fraying or weakness.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the BLUE MIDNIGHT 550 PARACORD 100′ has proven to be surprisingly resilient. I’ve used it for various tasks, from securing tarps during heavy rain to creating improvised fishing line in a pinch. The color has remained vibrant, showing no significant fading despite prolonged sun exposure.

There’s been minimal wear and tear, even after repeated abrasion against rough surfaces. Cleaning the cord is simple; a quick rinse with water and airdrying restores it to its original condition. It easily outperforms some of the cheaper, imported paracord I’ve used in the past, demonstrating better resistance to abrasion and maintaining its tensile strength.

Breaking Down the Features of BLUE MIDNIGHT 550 PARACORD 100′

Specifications

• Tensile Strength: 500 lbs. This is slightly below the standard 550 lbs often cited for Type III paracord. For most general uses, this difference won’t be critical, but it’s worth noting if you plan on using it near its breaking point.
• Type II Commercial Quality: This indicates it is made to resemble the military-spec paracord but might not meet every single stringent requirement. The difference often lies in the specific materials or manufacturing tolerances.
• 100 Percent Woven Nylon: Nylon provides excellent strength, durability, and resistance to abrasion, UV damage, and mildew. The all-nylon construction contributes to its reliable performance in diverse outdoor conditions.
• 7 2-Strand Core: The core strands can be removed individually for finer tasks like sewing or fishing. This enhances the paracord’s versatility in survival scenarios.
• 5/32 in Diameter: This is the standard diameter for 550 paracord. It is suitable for a wide range of applications.
• Made in America by a Certified Government Contractor: This is a significant selling point, implying a higher standard of quality control and ethical manufacturing practices. Knowing it is made in America provides confidence in its consistency and performance.

Performance & Functionality

The BLUE MIDNIGHT 550 PARACORD 100′ performs admirably for most common tasks. Its strength is sufficient for shelter building, gear repair, and creating emergency tools. While it might not be ideal for extremely demanding applications where every pound of strength matters, it excels in general utility.

The main strength is its versatility and overall reliability for its price point. One potential weakness is the slightly lower tensile strength compared to some premium brands, but for most users, this difference will be negligible. It meets my expectations as a dependable and affordable cordage option.

Design & Ergonomics

The all-nylon construction gives the cord a smooth and comfortable feel. The Blue Midnight color is not only aesthetically pleasing but also makes it easy to spot in low-light conditions. The 100′ length is convenient for most projects.

There’s no real learning curve associated with using paracord, and the BLUE MIDNIGHT 550 PARACORD 100′ is no exception. The consistent weave and diameter make knot tying easy.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its nylon construction and tight weave, the BLUE MIDNIGHT 550 PARACORD 100′ is expected to last for years with proper care. Keeping it clean and dry will maximize its lifespan. The nylon material is resistant to rot and mildew, reducing the risk of degradation in damp environments.

Maintenance is straightforward; simply rinse with water and air dry. No special treatments are needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The BLUE MIDNIGHT 550 PARACORD 100′ doesn’t come with any specific accessories, but its versatility makes it compatible with a wide range of add-ons. It works well with paracord fids (needles), lacing needles, and various types of buckles and fasteners. The color also lends itself well to decorative projects.

You can easily combine it with other colors of paracord to create unique braids, lanyards, and bracelets. The compatibility with common paracord accessories makes it a highly customizable product.

Pros and Cons of BLUE MIDNIGHT 550 PARACORD 100′

Who Should Buy BLUE MIDNIGHT 550 PARACORD 100′?

The BLUE MIDNIGHT 550 PARACORD 100′ is perfect for:

• Campers and hikers who need reliable cordage for shelter building, gear repair, and general camp tasks.
• Survivalists looking for a versatile material for emergency situations.
• DIY enthusiasts and crafters who enjoy creating paracord bracelets, lanyards, and other projects.
• Anyone assembling a bug-out bag or emergency kit on a budget.

Who should skip this product? Those requiring paracord for extreme load-bearing applications where every pound of tensile strength is critical, such as climbing or rappelling.

A must-have accessory would be a good quality paracord fid to make weaving and knot tying easier, along with a sharp knife or scissors for cutting the cord cleanly.

Conclusion on BLUE MIDNIGHT 550 PARACORD 100′

The BLUE MIDNIGHT 550 PARACORD 100′ is a surprisingly good product for its price. It provides a reliable and versatile cordage option for a wide range of applications. While it might not have the absolute highest tensile strength on the market, its durability, American-made quality, and striking color make it an excellent value.

The price is definitely justified given the quality and versatility. I would definitely recommend the BLUE MIDNIGHT 550 PARACORD 100′ to anyone looking for an affordable and dependable paracord option. Add this to your emergency kit, your bug-out bag, or your crafting supplies today. You won’t regret it.