DESERT CAMO 550 PARACORD 100′ Review

First Thoughts on the DESERT CAMO 550 PARACORD 100′

The DESERT CAMO 550 PARACORD 100′ is a staple in any outdoorsman’s kit, and for good reason. It’s strong, versatile, and essential for countless tasks, boasting a camouflage pattern that blends seamlessly into arid environments. The promise of a 550 lb tensile strength and a 7-strand core, all packed into a 100-foot spool, makes it an attractive option for anyone from weekend campers to serious survivalists.

My journey to this particular paracord began when I was prepping for a desert hiking trip. I needed a reliable cord that could handle various tasks, from setting up emergency shelters to repairing gear. I wanted something with a practical camo pattern, knowing it could also serve as a signaling tool in certain situations.

Upon unboxing, the DESERT CAMO 550 PARACORD 100′ felt robust and well-made. The nylon braid was tightly woven, and the desert camo pattern was indeed sharp and vibrant, as advertised. It felt lighter than some other paracords I’ve handled, which is a definite plus when packing for long treks.

I considered other brands like Atwood Rope MFG and Titan Paracord, but the DESERT CAMO 550 PARACORD 100′ won me over due to its combination of price and seemingly high quality for a commercial-grade cord. The fact that it is made in America by a certified government contractor also instilled confidence. My first impression was one of cautious optimism – excited to put it through its paces and see if it could live up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting DESERT CAMO 550 PARACORD 100′ to the Test

First Use Experience

I first deployed the DESERT CAMO 550 PARACORD 100′ during a three-day backpacking trip in the Mojave Desert. I used it for everything from securing my tent guylines against strong winds to creating a makeshift clothesline for drying out damp socks. The desert environment presented a harsh testing ground with intense sun, fluctuating temperatures, and abrasive sand.

The paracord performed admirably in these conditions. It proved easy to work with, knotting securely and holding its shape without fraying excessively. I even used the inner strands to repair a broken strap on my backpack, a task that highlighted the cord’s versatility and the usefulness of its 7-strand core. There were no immediate issues, and the DESERT CAMO 550 PARACORD 100′ handled everything I threw at it.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the DESERT CAMO 550 PARACORD 100′ has held up remarkably well. There’s been minimal wear and tear, with only slight fading of the camo pattern in areas exposed to constant sunlight. The nylon material has shown excellent resistance to abrasion, even after being dragged across rocks and sand.

Maintenance has been virtually non-existent, as the nylon is naturally resistant to rot and quick-drying. I’ve cleaned it a few times simply by rinsing it with water and letting it air dry. Compared to some cheaper paracords I’ve used in the past, the DESERT CAMO 550 PARACORD 100′ has significantly outperformed them in terms of durability and overall longevity.

Breaking Down the Features of DESERT CAMO 550 PARACORD 100′

Specifications

  • Tensile Strength: Boasts a 500 lb. tensile strength. This rating provides a reliable safety margin for various tasks.
  • Type: Classified as 550 Type II Commercial quality. This is a standard rating indicating reliable strength for many outdoor and survival uses.
  • Material: Constructed from 100 percent woven nylon. Nylon is known for its strength, abrasion resistance, and quick-drying properties.
  • Core: Features a 7 2-strand core. These inner strands can be extracted for finer tasks like fishing line or sewing thread.
  • Diameter: Has a 5/32 in diameter. The standard size makes it compatible with most knots and tools designed for paracord.
  • Origin: Proudly Made in America by a certified government contractor. This detail often signifies adherence to stricter quality control standards.

These specifications are critical because they define the cord’s load-bearing capacity, resistance to environmental factors, and overall versatility. The high tensile strength ensures it can handle demanding tasks. The nylon construction means it’s less prone to rotting or mildew.

Performance & Functionality

The DESERT CAMO 550 PARACORD 100′ excels in its primary role: providing a strong and reliable cord for a multitude of tasks. It knots easily, holds securely, and resists fraying even under stress. The inner strands are easily accessible when needed.

A minor weakness is that the commercial grade construction might not be quite as abrasion resistant as true Mil-Spec paracord. However, for the price, the performance is outstanding. It easily meets my expectations for a general-purpose outdoor cord.

Design & Ergonomics

The DESERT CAMO 550 PARACORD 100′ features a tightly woven braid that feels comfortable in hand. The desert camo pattern is aesthetically pleasing and functional in arid environments. The weight is minimal, making it easy to carry a substantial amount of cord without adding significant bulk to your pack.

There’s no real learning curve associated with using this paracord. Anyone familiar with basic knot tying will find it easy to handle. It’s a simple, functional design that prioritizes utility over unnecessary frills.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its nylon construction and tight weave, the DESERT CAMO 550 PARACORD 100′ is built to last. With proper care, it should withstand years of regular use. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with water to remove dirt and debris.

The rot-resistant properties of nylon ensure that it won’t degrade even when exposed to moisture. I anticipate this cord remaining a reliable part of my kit for a long time to come.

Accessories and Customization Options

The DESERT CAMO 550 PARACORD 100′ itself doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, it is compatible with a wide range of paracord-related tools and hardware. You can use it with paracord needles for weaving, buckles for creating bracelets, and various knot-tying tools to simplify complex tasks.

Since it’s standard 550 paracord, it’s universally compatible with any accessory designed for this type of cordage. This allows for a high degree of customization and personalization.

Pros and Cons of DESERT CAMO 550 PARACORD 100′

Pros

  • High Tensile Strength: Provides a reliable 500 lb. breaking strength for demanding tasks.
  • Durable Nylon Construction: Offers excellent resistance to abrasion, rot, and mildew.
  • Versatile 7-Strand Core: Allows for extraction of inner strands for finer tasks.
  • Aesthetically Pleasing Camo Pattern: Blends well in arid environments and can serve as a signal.
  • Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for the quality and performance provided.

Cons

  • Commercial Grade: May not be quite as abrasion-resistant as Mil-Spec paracord.
  • Potential for Fading: The camo pattern may fade slightly with prolonged exposure to sunlight.


Who Should Buy DESERT CAMO 550 PARACORD 100′?

The DESERT CAMO 550 PARACORD 100′ is perfect for:

  • Hikers and Backpackers: Essential for shelter building, gear repair, and emergency situations.
  • Campers: Useful for securing tents, creating clotheslines, and various campsite tasks.
  • Survivalists: A critical component of any survival kit for building shelters, snares, and more.
  • Preppers: A valuable resource for emergency preparedness and long-term survival.
  • DIY Enthusiasts: Ideal for crafting projects, handle wraps, and decorative items.

This product might not be the best choice for individuals who require absolute Mil-Spec grade paracord for extreme situations.

A must-have accessory is a good quality knife or multi-tool for cutting and manipulating the paracord.

Conclusion on DESERT CAMO 550 PARACORD 100′

The DESERT CAMO 550 PARACORD 100′ is a reliable and versatile tool that deserves a place in every outdoorsman’s kit. Its combination of strength, durability, and affordability makes it an excellent value proposition. For just $5.99, you’re getting a product that can handle a wide range of tasks and potentially save your bacon in a survival situation.

I would definitely recommend the DESERT CAMO 550 PARACORD 100′ to anyone looking for a dependable and affordable cord for outdoor adventures or emergency preparedness. Don’t leave home without it – grab a spool and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re prepared for anything.


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