The BROWN COYOTE 550 PARACORD 100′ Made a Bold First Impression
Paracord. It’s ubiquitous, inexpensive, and seemingly every outdoorsman and tactical gear enthusiast has a healthy supply. But not all paracord is created equal, and when you’re relying on it for everything from securing a tarp to crafting a survival bracelet, quality matters. That’s why I decided to try the BROWN COYOTE 550 PARACORD 100′. The promise of a reliable and versatile cord in a practical color sparked my interest.
For years, I’ve used various brands of paracord, typically the generic, brightly colored spools found in big box stores. While these served a purpose, I always questioned their true strength and durability, especially when subjected to harsh conditions. I was seeking a dependable cord for more demanding tasks, particularly those where blending into the environment was crucial.
Upon receiving the BROWN COYOTE 550 PARACORD 100′, my initial impression was positive. The color was exactly as advertised, a muted brown that would disappear seamlessly into wooded environments. The cord felt substantial in hand, noticeably denser than the cheaper paracord I was accustomed to. It seemed like a quality product.
Compared to the neon-green cord I previously used for guy lines, or the multi-colored survival bracelets I’d made, the BROWN COYOTE 550 PARACORD 100′ felt like a serious upgrade. I’d considered other brands known for their robust construction, but the BROWN COYOTE 550 PARACORD 100′ offered a compelling balance of price and perceived quality. Plus, the coyote brown color was exactly what I needed for an upcoming hunting trip where minimizing visibility was paramount. I was excited to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting BROWN COYOTE 550 PARACORD 100′ to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the BROWN COYOTE 550 PARACORD 100′ was during a weekend backpacking trip in the Allegheny National Forest. I used it primarily for setting up my tarp shelter and creating a clothesline. The cord’s grip and knot-holding ability immediately impressed me.
Even in damp conditions, the BROWN COYOTE 550 PARACORD 100′ remained easy to handle and didn’t slip or loosen its knots. This was a significant improvement over some of the slicker cords I’d used previously, which required constant re-tightening. The coyote brown color also proved its worth, effectively camouflaging the cord against the surrounding foliage. There were no unexpected issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the BROWN COYOTE 550 PARACORD 100′ has proven remarkably durable. I’ve used it for everything from securing gear in my truck bed to improvising repairs on broken camping equipment. There’s been minimal fraying.
Despite being exposed to sun, rain, and mud, the cord shows little sign of wear. Cleaning is simple; I just rinse it with water and let it air dry. Compared to some of the cheaper cords I’ve used, the BROWN COYOTE 550 PARACORD 100′ has significantly outperformed them in terms of longevity and overall reliability. This cord feels like it was built to last.
Breaking Down the Features of BROWN COYOTE 550 PARACORD 100′
Specifications
- 550 lb Tensile Strength: This is the headline specification, and it translates to a cord that can withstand significant loads before breaking. This is critical for any survival or heavy-duty application.
- 100 Feet Length: A generous length that provides ample material for a wide range of uses. This gives you plenty to work with for multiple projects.
- 7 Inner Strands: These strands can be removed and used individually for finer tasks such as fishing line or sewing thread. This adds to the versatility of the cord.
- Nylon Construction: Nylon is known for its strength, abrasion resistance, and resistance to mildew and rot. This makes the cord suitable for prolonged outdoor use.
- Coyote Brown Color: Provides excellent camouflage in natural environments. Blending in can be crucial in tactical or hunting situations.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the cord’s performance and versatility. The high tensile strength ensures it can handle heavy loads, while the inner strands provide options for finer tasks. The nylon construction guarantees durability and resistance to the elements.
Performance & Functionality
The BROWN COYOTE 550 PARACORD 100′ performs exceptionally well in a variety of tasks. Its strength and grip make it ideal for securing shelters, rigging gear, and creating emergency repairs. There are no obvious weaknesses.
It exceeds expectations in terms of durability and ease of use. The color accuracy and consistency are also noteworthy.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with a tight weave and consistent diameter throughout the 100-foot length. The material feels substantial and durable.
The cord is easy to handle and tie knots with, even when wet. There’s virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The BROWN COYOTE 550 PARACORD 100′ is designed to last. The nylon construction is resistant to abrasion, mildew, and rot.
Maintenance is minimal; simply rinse with water and air dry as needed. Repairs are typically unnecessary due to the cord’s inherent strength.
Accessories and Customization Options
No accessories come with the paracord itself, as it’s a standalone product. However, the BROWN COYOTE 550 PARACORD 100′ is highly customizable in terms of its applications.
It’s compatible with a wide range of accessories, such as buckles, cord locks, and carabiners. These can be used to create custom survival bracelets, lanyards, and other gear.
Pros and Cons of BROWN COYOTE 550 PARACORD 100′
Pros
- High Tensile Strength: The 550 lb rating provides peace of mind for demanding tasks. The strength of this cord is reassuring.
- Durable Nylon Construction: Resistant to abrasion, mildew, and rot for long-lasting performance. This paracord will last for years.
- Versatile 7 Inner Strands: Can be used individually for finer tasks. It allows for great improvisation.
- Excellent Camouflage: Coyote brown color blends seamlessly into natural environments. This is perfect for hunting.
- Affordable Price: Provides great value for its quality and performance. The price is more than reasonable.
Cons
- Some fraying at cut ends is unavoidable without proper sealing (e.g., melting). Fraying is to be expected.
- Color may vary slightly between different dye lots (though this is typical of nylon products). Color accuracy could vary slightly.
Who Should Buy BROWN COYOTE 550 PARACORD 100′?
The BROWN COYOTE 550 PARACORD 100′ is perfect for outdoorsmen, survivalists, preppers, hunters, campers, and anyone who values having a reliable and versatile cord on hand. It’s an excellent choice for crafting survival gear, rigging shelters, securing equipment, and a multitude of other tasks.
Those who prioritize ultra-lightweight gear above all else might consider thinner or lighter cords, though they would sacrifice strength and durability. People who only need small lengths of paracord may find a smaller spool more convenient, but they’d miss out on the cost savings per foot.
Must-have accessories include a sharp knife or scissors for cutting the cord and a lighter or heat source for sealing the ends to prevent fraying. Buckles and cord locks are useful for creating adjustable straps and lanyards.
Conclusion on BROWN COYOTE 550 PARACORD 100′
The BROWN COYOTE 550 PARACORD 100′ is an exceptional product that delivers on its promises. It’s strong, durable, versatile, and affordably priced.
The $5.99 price is more than justified by the cord’s quality and performance. I would wholeheartedly recommend it.
If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile paracord for your outdoor adventures or tactical needs, the BROWN COYOTE 550 PARACORD 100′ is an excellent choice. Add it to your gear bag today – you won’t regret it!