Rothco Nylon Type III Paracord Review

Let’s Talk About Rothco Nylon Type III Paracord

Rothco Nylon Type III Paracord – the ubiquitous survival and utility cord found in everything from bug-out bags to crafting projects. Manufactured by Rothco, a company well-known for its military and tactical gear, this paracord promises durability and versatility at an affordable price point. This cord boasts a 550-pound tensile strength and a 7-strand core, making it a seemingly reliable option for various tasks.

My interest in the Rothco Nylon Type III Paracord stemmed from a need for a dependable cordage solution in my hiking and camping kit. My previous paracord, a no-name brand, repeatedly frayed and failed under minimal stress. I sought something more trustworthy without breaking the bank.

Upon receiving the Rothco Nylon Type III Paracord, my initial impression was mixed. The cord felt slightly stiffer than other paracords I’d handled. It also had a somewhat synthetic smell that wasn’t entirely reassuring.

Compared to a high-end paracord like Atwood Rope MFG, the Rothco option seemed less pliable and refined. Against a generic, imported cord, the Rothco cord felt noticeably more robust. Ultimately, the price point and Rothco’s reputation for producing serviceable gear led me to choose this product.

I was cautiously optimistic about the Rothco Nylon Type III Paracord. It appeared to be a decent mid-range option, but I needed to see how it performed in real-world conditions before forming a definitive opinion.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Rothco Nylon Type III Paracord to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Rothco Nylon Type III Paracord was a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used the paracord for various tasks, including setting up a ridgeline for my tarp shelter and creating a makeshift clothesline. The cord performed adequately, holding knots well and showing no immediate signs of fraying under moderate tension.

However, during a brief rain shower, I noticed the Rothco Paracord seemed to absorb more water than expected. This made it feel heavier and slightly less manageable while tying knots. Beyond that, the initial use revealed no major drawbacks.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Rothco Nylon Type III Paracord has proven to be reasonably durable, although not without some limitations. The outer sheath has shown minor signs of wear in high-friction areas, such as where it rubs against tree branches. This indicates the cord’s long-term durability might be a concern with constant heavy use.

Maintenance is simple – I’ve rinsed the cord with water after muddy outings, and it air dries quickly enough. Compared to my previous experience with the cheaper cord, the Rothco option provides significantly more peace of mind, particularly regarding knot security and overall strength. However, it still falls short of the performance offered by premium paracord brands in terms of water resistance and abrasion resistance.

Breaking Down the Features of Rothco Nylon Type III Paracord

Specifications

The Rothco Nylon Type III Paracord is constructed from 100% nylon, providing decent strength and abrasion resistance. The diameter is approximately 5/32 inches, which is standard for Type III paracord. It is 550 LB tested and features a durable 7 Strand Core, ensuring a reasonable level of safety for various applications.

These specifications are essential because they determine the cord’s suitability for different tasks. The 550-pound test rating provides a safety margin for suspending weight or securing loads, making it adequate for camping, survival, and general utility purposes. The 7-strand core adds to the overall strength and allows the cord to be used for finer tasks by removing the core strands if needed.

Performance & Functionality

The Rothco Nylon Type III Paracord performs adequately for general use. It’s reliable enough for tasks like setting up shelters, securing gear, and creating emergency repairs. The cord’s strength is sufficient for most applications, but I wouldn’t trust it for life-critical situations without thorough inspection.

The primary weakness is its tendency to absorb water. In wet conditions, this cord becomes heavier and can lose some of its tensile strength. The cord is also not as supple as higher-end options, making it slightly more challenging to tie intricate knots. Despite these drawbacks, the Rothco Paracord meets my basic expectations for a general-purpose utility cord.

Design & Ergonomics

The Rothco Nylon Type III Paracord features a basic, no-frills design. The materials used feel durable enough for the intended purpose. The stiffness of the cord can make it somewhat less comfortable to handle for extended periods, especially when tying small knots.

There’s no learning curve involved; anyone familiar with basic knot tying can use this cord effectively. However, the lack of suppleness might make it slightly more difficult for beginners to work with.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Rothco Nylon Type III Paracord should last for several years of occasional use. The durability of the outer sheath is the primary concern. Exposure to constant abrasion and UV radiation could accelerate its degradation.

Maintenance is straightforward. Rinsing with water and air drying are typically sufficient to keep the cord clean and functional. While the core strands can be removed and used separately, doing so significantly reduces the overall strength of the remaining sheath.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Rothco Nylon Type III Paracord doesn’t come with any specific accessories. Customization options are limited to choosing from various colors and lengths. The cord is compatible with standard paracord accessories, such as buckles, beads, and lanyards, allowing users to create custom bracelets, keychains, and other items.

It is also compatible with various knot-tying tools that are designed to assist with tightening and securing knots.

Pros and Cons of Rothco Nylon Type III Paracord