GRAY CHARCOAL 550 PARACORD 100′ Review

First Thoughts on the GRAY CHARCOAL 550 PARACORD 100′

Paracord. It’s one of those things that’s always around, tucked into a drawer, rattling in a bug-out bag, or hanging from a keychain. But how much thought do we really give to the quality of that cord? GRAY CHARCOAL 550 PARACORD 100′ from an unnamed certified government contractor promises commercial-grade reliability in a subtly stylish gray shade. For a seasoned outdoorsman like myself, always on the lookout for reliable gear, this piqued my interest.

My search for quality paracord stemmed from a recent climbing trip. A cheap, imported cord failed spectacularly while I was setting up a makeshift tarp shelter, leaving me exposed to an unexpected downpour. I vowed to only use reputable brands from then on. The allure of the GRAY CHARCOAL 550 PARACORD 100′ was its promise of strength, durability, and American-made quality at an affordable price.

Upon receiving the GRAY CHARCOAL 550 PARACORD 100′, the first thing I noticed was the consistent weave and the subdued, yet appealing, gray charcoal color. The feel was substantial, a clear step up from the flimsy, imported stuff I was replacing. It felt like it could actually hold 550 pounds.

Compared to a generic cord I had lying around and a more expensive, brightly colored cord from a specialty outdoor store, the GRAY CHARCOAL 550 PARACORD 100′ struck a balance between affordability and quality. The specialty cord felt marginally stronger, but the price difference was significant. I was excited to put the GRAY CHARCOAL 550 PARACORD 100′ to the test in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting GRAY CHARCOAL 550 PARACORD 100′ to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the GRAY CHARCOAL 550 PARACORD 100′ during a weekend backpacking trip in the Smoky Mountains. My primary use for it was rigging a bear bag for food storage and constructing a ridgeline for my hammock. The cord was easy to work with, held knots securely, and showed no signs of fraying even after repeated tightening and adjustments.

The weather was typical for the Smokies – humid with intermittent rain. I was impressed that the GRAY CHARCOAL 550 PARACORD 100′ dried quickly and didn’t seem to absorb much water, which is crucial for maintaining its strength and preventing rot. There were no issues or unexpected surprises.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the GRAY CHARCOAL 550 PARACORD 100′ is still holding up remarkably well. I’ve used it for everything from securing gear to my pack to creating makeshift repairs on a broken tent pole. There are no signs of significant wear and tear.

The color has remained consistent, and the cord hasn’t become noticeably weaker or more prone to fraying. Cleaning is simple. A quick rinse with water and air drying is all it takes to remove dirt and debris. It certainly outperforms the cheaper paracord I had previously relied on, and I’m confident in its long-term reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of GRAY CHARCOAL 550 PARACORD 100′

Specifications

• Tensile Strength: 550 lbs. This is the industry standard for “550 paracord” and indicates the maximum weight the cord can theoretically hold before breaking.
• Type: Type II Commercial quality. This signifies that it’s a commercial version of military-spec paracord, likely with slightly looser tolerances but still designed for rugged use.
• Material: 100 percent woven nylon. Nylon provides excellent strength, abrasion resistance, and resistance to rot and mildew.
• Core Strands: 7 2-strand core. The core contributes significantly to the cord’s overall strength.
• Diameter: 5/32 in. This is the standard diameter for 550 paracord.
• Sheath: 32 woven strands. A tightly woven sheath protects the core strands from abrasion and increases the cord’s overall durability.
• Origin: Made in America by a certified government contractor. This assures a level of quality control and adherence to standards that you might not find with imported products.

These specifications matter because they translate directly into the cord’s performance and reliability in the field. The GRAY CHARCOAL 550 PARACORD 100′ is strong enough to handle a wide range of tasks. It is durable enough to withstand harsh conditions, and the American-made quality inspires confidence.

Performance & Functionality

The GRAY CHARCOAL 550 PARACORD 100′ performs exceptionally well in its intended role. It’s reliable, easy to knot, and strong enough for most general-purpose outdoor tasks. A major strength is its versatility.

The only area where I see room for slight improvement is in the sheath’s resistance to abrasion on very rough surfaces. While it’s generally durable, prolonged contact with sharp rocks might lead to some fraying over time. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations for a commercial-grade 550 paracord.

Design & Ergonomics

The GRAY CHARCOAL 550 PARACORD 100′ boasts a well-constructed design. The tightly woven sheath and consistent diameter contribute to a solid feel in hand. The gray charcoal color is understated and blends well into natural environments.

There’s no learning curve involved. It is immediately user-friendly, especially for anyone familiar with basic knot-tying techniques.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its nylon construction and tight weave, the GRAY CHARCOAL 550 PARACORD 100′ is expected to last for years with proper care. Regular cleaning to remove dirt and grime will further extend its lifespan. Repairs are generally not possible or recommended for damaged sections of paracord.

It’s simply best to replace the damaged section with a new piece.

Accessories and Customization Options

The GRAY CHARCOAL 550 PARACORD 100′ doesn’t come with any specific accessories, as it’s intended to be a standalone product. However, its compatibility with various knotting techniques and its versatility allow for countless customization options. You can use it for everything from creating lanyards and bracelets to rigging tarps and building shelters. The possibilities are truly endless.

It is also compatible with various paracord accessories like buckles, beads, and toggles, allowing for further customization.

Pros and Cons of GRAY CHARCOAL 550 PARACORD 100′