Hammocks cannot work without suspension kits. The suspenders hold the devices above the ground. But what happens when you forget your cords at home? Is it the end of the world? It does not have to be if you have a paracord in your backpack.
What Is A Paracord?
A paracord is a rope made from nylon or polyester. It is a cord used by military personnel on parachutes. The most common variant is the 550 paracord. Other deviants include the nano, micro, type 1, 275, 325-1, 325-3, 425, 650, and 750 classes. Did you know the strength of a paracord lies in its thickness? Well, the 750 variant can support heavier loads than the nano type.
Is The Rope Ideal For A Hammock?
The rope is perfect for static loads. It stretches when exposed to a load, light or heavy. Also, it is not thick enough, meaning the rope twists and turns with every sudden movement. However, the cable always proves those who cannot tell; Will Paracord Hold a Hammock wrong. So, how do you tell if the rope suffices to support your weight? Follow the tips below.
If The Rope Is Thick Enough
Manufacturers use nylon and polyester to produce the paracord. Nylon stretches when exposed to a lot of weight and moisture. It might be impossible for you to harness your hammock in normal “woodsy” circumstances.
However, you can weave the thin paracord lines into one thick web. A thick rope stretches less and is stronger. It can, therefore, hold your weight down provided you do not make any sudden movements.
The nylon used to produce paracord is also robust. It is when the material gets woven into fibers that it becomes unbreakable. What an incredible hack!
Is The Strand Dry Enough?
Paracord can disappoint you when wet. Recall, the rope gets produced from nylon, and nylon is stretched when wet. Even worse, the material loses 15% of its strength when exposed to water.
So, does that mean you will sleep on the forest floor because you did not carry the right props with you? Hell, no. Drying the rope under the sun or fire can reverse the situation. However, never place the paracord too close to the flames. It might burn!
Always inspect your rope for signs of physical damage before use. Nylon ropes are prone to abrasion when wet. You must, therefore, protect your paracord from sharp objects, given that the equipment might be useful in years to come.
If It Is Short Enough
Many camping experts do not agree that paracord is a useful support kit because of its elasticity. They paint the rope in a bad light, not realizing that it can become a beacon of hope when in the wild. Paracord stretches when carrying a load because of the nylon fibers.
But did you know that you can use such a disadvantage for your profit? Keeping the rope short and taut is the sure most way of propping up a hammock. Remember, the platform will stretch because of the nylon anchors. Anyway, the short rope prevents excess elasticity.
The Rope Is New
An old rope loses its glory with age. Too much exposure to the elements favors a lot of wear and tear. You should not, therefore, use a paracord in such circumstances. Doing so places your life in danger.
Anyhow, a new rope can serve your interests better. Not only is the paracord safe for use but also healthy enough to hold a few pounds above the ground. It is a durable option, the perfect life-saver.
Selection Based On Type
Paracord comes in different sizes. The 750 paracord is:
- Bigger and better than the 550 variant
- The most durable tactical paracord available today
- 26% percent stronger than the 550 paracord
In short, the 750 paracord is robust enough to serve your needs. It has a thick diameter meaning it can support a more significant load. Rope thickness also prevents the hammock from swinging uncontrollably. From the look of things, you can tell that a paracord will hold a bed depending on its type.
Conclusion
A lot of mystery surrounds the paracord and hammock. Skeptics believe that such rope cannot support a platform because of its elasticity. Research, however, proves that a paracord is stronger than the conventional line.
Also, it is flexible enough to fold into a small package. It is because of its flexibility that you are likely to end up with the paracord in your backpack. It is the real deal saver after forgetting your hammock support kit at home.
Besides, working with a new strand is better than using an old one. Recall, an old rope may have weak points resulting from years of abuse. Thus, new strands make the best option.
From the look of things, a paracord can work wonders for you. All you must do is become innovative and create a rope thick enough to support your weight. Above all, ensure you do not make unnecessary movements when on the hammock. The paracord only accommodates static loads.
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