OK, OK..... You WIN, Prepper Potpourri! BANKLINE it is! This video is AWESOME! I loved all of the points that you made. As a fellow content creator I'm a little jealous that you looked to have filmed this video in ONE take. I wish I could do that! I'm deranking paracord in my Urban kits and bringing back the tarred bankline in its place based on all of the excellent reasonings that you laid out. Thank you so much for making this video!
I love the fact that you not only question the conventional way but back it up your findings too. Thank you. I am sharing this video with family and friends. Please make more like this!
I once used 550 cord to wrap my ball joint together. Didn't move quickly, or go on the highway, but it got me down the road. Note the post was still there so it was just used to lash the 2 pieces together.
Use paracord for my reusable lines, I have pre-made Ridgeline and utility cords, but bank line for everything else. This is the first of your videos I have seen. Good job.
this was the best explanation of cordage I've seen yet ! it surly opened up my eyes to the many uses these different cordages have in prepping ! thank you .
I agree that bankline is the bomb. I keep bankline, paracord and mule tape in my cordage bag. Mule tale is rated 1200 lbs. It takes up more room though
My main issue with bank line, especially tarred bankline is it's not as freely available in places outside of the US. I managed to find some and imported it from the US to Australia and it's great but like paracord it's great at some things, worse at others. I have found it's great for lashings, guy lines and handle wraps. It's not so great for ridgelines as I use prussick knots to suspend/tighten my tarp on the ridgeline and I found bankline doesn't have that squishiness that makes prussick knots bind. However if you have a paracord ridgeline with a smaller diameter bankline prussik knots and binds very well but also slides easily when you need it to. I think people get too caught up with what is the "best overall" vs what is the "best" for a specific job or task. When I go outdoors for camping I tend to carry a mix of paracord, jute twine, bankline and dyneema as each has it's benefits vs cons for specific tasks.
I love this discussion. I got into paracord back in college. Made a bunch of bracelets, lanyards, and all sorts of other things. But after using it so much for that, I realized that other cordages are worth getting too. Similarly to you, I found that Bank Line is great for storing in the altoids tin kits, due to being much more compact while still being very tough. I've now collected some jute twine, braided mason line, Type 1A paracord, and Kevlar line. Despite paracord being the common go-to for a lot of people for good reasons, it's also worth looking at other types of cordage.
This is one of the most comprehensive videos about prepper/edc cordage I have ever watched! Very glad that you were able to make it into my 'feed' with this one & hope to see more (subscribed)!
Thank you for sharing this video!!! It’s very informative and definitely food for thought. I have parachord in my bags, but am adding bank line to my preps for the reasons you stated in this video! Thanks again for sharing!!!
My thoughts Bankline vs. Paracord: Being as I was a paratrooper with the 101st and an Army Ranger, I have tremendous respect for paracord and its uses. Also, I have an open mind about cordage, thus after testing Bankline against paracord the majority of my cordage needs my go to is #36 twisted Bankline foregoing paracord. Bankline #36 diameter is 2.159mm with a test strength of 340 lb. It seems the most common used paracord is 550. Its diameter is 4mm with a test strength of 550 lb.; we agree 550 lb. is better than 340 lb.". For the size difference one can carry twice the length of Bankline than paracord and reduce their carry weight as well. Although 550 paracord test is 550 lb., double up #36 will conceivably equal 680 lb. strength with a diameter of 4.31mm. Yes, ever so slightly thicker than 550 4mm, however the Bankline will provide more strength than 550 paracord. Bankline holds knots much better than paracord. Bankline when soaked in water, oils, and the like does not lose strength, and quickly dries. Conversely, Paracord when wet loses strength and takes quite a while to dry. Also, an inherent property of paracord, it stretches upwards of 30%-ish, whereas Bankline does not stretch. Using paracord tie a ridgeline it will have a tendency to stretch/sag thus it will need to again be tighten, not so with Bankline. For frayed ends of paracord and other cordage one can whip those ends with a single strand of twisted Bankline (contains three strands) without the need to burn/melt the ends of the cordage. Using 550 and then adding a prusik made from 550, the prusik will not perform as well as a prusik made from Bankline and the Bankline prusik would be safer as well. From habit or ego many folks use paracord. For many cordage needs, Bankline can easily replace paracord and provide better service. Yes, old habits are difficult to give up and break. Truly, there are other types of cordage better than paracord.
Outstanding sister! BTW, Paracord was used by the military for parachutes. and they used a lot of strings. Each side has 32 strings. The length is related to the diameter of the chute. I was not familiar with that orange cord for boats. However, I always used the 1/2 inch that is already made with the loop at one end. Great job explaining the different cords. Muchas Gracias!!
Prepper Potpourri versus TUP! 😂🤭😎 You are both awesome. I love the UA-cam prepper community. TUP I think you need to convert those charts into pdf for Prepper Poutpourri!
Excellent advice on cordage. Agree that 550 cord is not the "End All, Be All" cordage that some people tend to proclaim. I have some. Have even more bankline, for the reasons you mentioned. Additionally, I have all sorts of other cordage, ranging from sewing threads to good sized rope, too. Jute baling twine, butchers twine, clothesline wire, clothesline rope, artificial sinew, crochet cotton and rug weight yarns, along with bungee cords, ratchet straps and tow straps, to mention a few. When buying and storing cordage for long term needs, consider how it will be used. Some situations are one time use and then discard. Tying tomatoes to stakes in the garden would be an example. An inexpensive, natural fiber, with sufficient strength is all that's needed. Save the expensive stuff for things like guy lines for tents and tarps, that will be used over and over again. BTW, many types/sizes of electrical wire as cordage in an emergency. Extension cords are a good example. Another source of cordage can be green vines. Learn to recognize and stay clear of the poisonous varieties.
For mountain climbing and rappelling down cliffs & buildings I use 'dry rope' climbing rope. For hanging my clothes to dry during a camping trip I use paracord.
Yes, the Prepper obsession for paracord seem to stem from it's military use. As you say, the main benefit is that of multifunction. Beware of synthetic ropes/string that has been exposed to the sun - degradation is a key factor in it's strength. Kite string is pretty tough. One should also consider Sailing Dyneema rope/cordage, very strong and robust. A great and thought provoking video.
Well, when SHTF, can you use bankline to tie your shoes should your shoe laces break? Maybe, but I'd much rather have a paracord than a bankline. Kite string is too small, it may even cut your shoes. Versatility triumph when everything depends on what you have in your bag. Paracord has proven to work and it's not going anywhere.
I think the reason paracord has been pushed for so long is because the modern prepper community is so heavily influenced by military survival and that training originated to help down pilots survive. So what do most downed pilots have? A parachute with paracord. Thus the training was designed to help the pilots survive with the resources they had immediate access to. So although paracord has lots of uses bank line does as well.
you are quite right, i feel that military folk (me included) tend to have tunnel vision about ''good kit''. And often miss the bloomin' obvious. Have a good day Mike in County Durham UK
Excellent video!! Love #36 bank line but recently I've been considering Zing It or Lash It. Finding your video at this particular time is perfect. Being cheap, I'll probably stick with #36 tarred twisted bank line, I've got it already, I won't have to buy anything, it's not a financial climate that's screaming "live luxuriously". I believe in using less I also carry small sewing bobbins or small bobbins like yours (love'm) of dyneema/kevlar line, braided fishing line, heavy thread, then a 30' hank of 550 a so called Survivor type of cord with the added strands of wire, fishing line, fire starting line and a 30' hank of #36 tarred bank line. Both 30 footers are set up as rapid ridge lines. Additionally I pack a 40' hank of #36 bank line for tie outs, lashing, etc. Been eyeballing some pretty cool Dutchware, no knot hardware, but I'm going to stick with knots (KISS). Seeing I live on the coast probably will add some Amsteel. My 'Bug In' stash of supplies has tons of the variety of the line types above and more. I'm over stocked, lol. Really want to check out that Zing It, though. I need more line like a hole in the head.
A very informative and well thought out video. One of the benefits of paracords overbank line is how easy it is to untie and reuse. As stated bankline is much better for wraps and tripods but if you are only making something temporary it can be difficult to untie.
Hi graemeo3440, I can agree with your comment. Using Bankline for those temporary tie-ups I include a quick release knot (slip knot) and for added safety a stopper knot as well; it will not (play on words) undo itself. Time to untie, pull the working end of the quick release knot, BAM! it comes untied. Rope stuff is much fun.
Personally, I like to use 3/16 solid braid polyester rope. It's about the same thickness, is easy to untie, holds knots well, doesn't stretch like nylon, resists mildew and UV, doesn't absorb water, doesn't float (better for nets) and has up to a 900-pound break strength with a good brand. It has excellent durability/reusability, holds its shape, feels good in the hand and it's only about $9 for 100 feet. Can I separate it and use the filaments for fishing or sewing? Maybe... but carrying some actual thread and fishing line is a much better solution than having to destroy/disassemble my cordage.
New to the hobby of camping/bushcraft/survival/shelter building addict, and until now felt paracord is king lol.. Thanks so much!! I didn't even know about static and dynamic weight. Instant follower!
I'll just get both. Winning! I was just checking Amazon and the Bankline #60 is 12 cents per foot, whereas the paracord 550lb is only 5 cents per foot. So where can get the CMI Bankline for half of the paracord price as you stated?
Thank you much for the video. That Orange US / TricornE-spool tool may be nice to use to carry both bankline and paracord or whatever other line using one holder.
Finally someone destroy the glory myth of Paracord 550, thanks for that! ❤️ Btw. I use for my tarp a 2mm (600lbs) special Dyneema rope with nylon sheet in pitch-black. For my hammock suspension a 4mm (1800lbs) special Dyneema rope with nylon sheet in pitch-black. The prussik knots works great on this ropes because of the nylon sheet. There are so many great ropes on the market, I don't understand why people still grab this paracord thing 😂😂😂
Prepper, you put a lot of work in this video, it was great! You might add waxed sail twine, it is about 2 cents a foot at 160lbs. I like it because it is good for canvas and tarp sewing plus if you need to make a loop in an odd shape to fiddle around inside something it will hold the shape and allow you to place it on a bolt or part,etc.👌
Hello @Prepper Potpourri! This is formerly The Oily Prepper. I love this comparison! I have been thinking about switching my paracord over to tarred bankline for a while. You convinced me! Great comparison! Thanks for all of your research!!!
I am going to buy some good quality Bank Line this week. Number #36 and number #60 Bank Line. The Paracord has too much stretch for my Survival applications.
Heresy!!! 😉 As someone who has used 550 cord for its' intended purpose hundreds of times, and is STILL struggling with the term "paracord", heresy I say!!! But alas you're right. Just like Daddy taught you, use the right tool for the right job. I've got two spools of 100lb bank line in my truck, just like the one you display at [13:55]. As for my get home bag, three 20' bundles of [gulp] paracord and 50' of bank line. Great comparative analysis and gutsy video. Tacti-kool preppers everywhere are having conniption fits.
I like the kevelar kite line. You can get various tests but 200 lb is a good diameter. The kevelar is very fire proof and good for use around fires (like hanging a pot) and very very strong for its bulk and volume. The one “con” for the cord is that you can’t “burn” the ends to seal it. You need to just tie a knot or use a dental floss to whip it. But for the space that it takes up… it’s a great option for some kits. It will also be more expensive than something like tarred bank line.
@@PrepperPotpourri I just looked on Amazon. A 1,000 foot spool of 100 pound test line is 25.00. How long is it gonna take to use that much cord and what is the cost per foot? I think you will find the cost isn’t that great. Try finding 1,000 feet of paracord and look at that cost. Do you need that extra 400 pounds? If so… but 500 pound kite string. You’ll likely pay more but again. How long to use that amount. Cost per foot.
@@PrepperPotpourri if you are really hurting. Stinging nettles can be turned into cordage. As can the plastic bags they sell (or used to) in grocery stores. They do it all the time in Asia. They make fishing line by pulling and branding plain old plastic grocery bags. Look up the videos. It’s pretty cool. And you can create fishing line from almost any trash can or source of human dump.
Good day to you Potpourri, Mike from County Durham UK I am an older fellow a former soldier and have a prepper mindset. I have long thought that paracord is not the be all and end all. I enjoy wearing a paracord bracelet and wear regularly however i ensure my weave is set up in such a way as to be able to release the cordage quickly. Whens shft happens untying your paracord bracelet is not the easiest thing to do. I am a convert to using other cordage in particular nos 36 bankline and the comments seem to support your point of view, quite rightly to :) Best wishes Mike
Great argument. Thanks for video. I carry 150 ft of climbing webbing. A full roll of 36 Bankline and I have 2x 25 ft of climbing webbing for tree slings for my hammock. I have it all in a mollie bag that attaches to my pack. My pack fully loaded weighs 40 lbs. I have carried 80 lbs but in comfortable hiking with 40 lbs in hilly mountain areas. Including food. The only way to get it lighter is to buy ultra light gear. I'm not willing to give up the durability of my gear.
I long ago stopped buying paracord and started buying bank twine. "People say" but they never show so! Paracord gets slippery when wet and is hard to knot compared to decent bank twine. Bank is also massively cheaper and more compact Okay I give up. You, as ever, covered my points. I had a lot of paracord and I still carry some as the colours are helpful in dense forest for marking trails, etc
i think bank line is better and cheaper but in my area you can't find it locally i have to order it but there is 2 types i like both but bank line more i agree with you on this one i uses yucca and a lot of natural cordage because i can't find bank line i gulf wax my natural cordage to water proof it great video miss solid wisdom
I've also added "spider wire", a type of fishing line, to my kit. It's extremely strong. I've used it for sewing and crafts as well as fishing. I'm sure there are other uses I have yet to discover 🙂
I like that stuff because you can shove so much of it into a small kit. It works as fishing line, of course, but it works great for low weight lashing, as well as an emergency sewing thread.
Mason line from home depot type stores is the best for lashing. it not by the rope. You will complete projects and if you have a netting needle you can make rabbit bolting nets. Try that with 550. They have 500 foot rolls fit nice in a pack pocket. They got white pink orange yellow and green. nice video by the way thumbs up.
How to use paracord for a lot of different things Bank line is good for putting a shoulder up but it is not for Ridgeline it's kind of hard to to get a trucker's knot hooked on Bank line it doesn't work
The problem with butane lighters is that the gas valve can be pressed if you are not careful packing them. I would turn the valve lever to the inside of the cord wrap to act as a "trigger guard". Great video.
What to use cordage for ? 1. It has to be reusable, 2. Easy to tie and untie knots, 3. Has to be versatile in various situations. 4. Small cordage and knots are not easily undone and therefore you will have to cut the line making it a one-time use. Just a thought....
For me, shock cord (fixing tent pole/pack); heavy duty thread and needles (clothing repair); red hemp twine (lanyards, tinder, flagging, also just...string) for me. I have paracord too, but don't want to have to improvise in a reasonably foreseeable emergency.
Very informing video - great comparison. Why did you leave out polyester and polypropylene - widely used by sailors? As you mentioned, paracord has 25-30% stretch to absorb most of the opening shock if used as a parachute suspension cord, so if you hang a hammock with nylon, you'll probably end up with your butt on the ground in the morning. Also it isn't great for shelter building, joints tend to loosen - and it's slick, so you need special knots. Polyester and polypropylene have less stretch and a better grip, and are cheaper (esp.PP). Stay safe and take care
Yes, there are many more types of cordage available. Each may be best for a certain purpose. People don't take time to consider how they are going to use the cordage.
750lb mil spec paracord is better for slinging bunks. Bankline is better for shelter building. Steel for snares and fishing line for fish. A good bag should have all 4.
I have 3,000lb paracord. Paracord Planet made it years ago but the information on Amazon, Walmart etc was incorrect. Emailed the manufacturer and corrections were made. I'm eyeballing 120 bankline.
Can you do certain things with bank line though like use it to make traps where would have use paracord wound for a sling mechanism. A primitive survival trap like the spring spear trap which involves using cordage to activate the trap. Would bankline give you that same affect?
Nice to hear someone else call out the orthodoxy on paracord. I cant find bank line, but I have used braided mason line for decades. The obsession with cannablizing 550 cord just seems nuts to me. Yes, I carry 550 cord, there is always 20ish feet with me, but a hundred feet of masons line lives in my EDC pack along with duct tape, and I have 20lbs Spiderwire (spectra fish line) in every bag plus a bit stashed with a needle in my wallet. Right tool for the job in this case doesn't add weight, it saves weight, because we arent trashing 550 cord.
always good to question assumptions. Personally, I think bankline is great not just in size but for the weight. 10m of paracord is about 70g. 10m of bankline 36 is only 17. I was wondering whether you have weights for these others?
Used to use mason line to saw PVC pipe in half. Might saw other stuff as well, but that's what we used it for growing up. Plus it's about half as expensive as she shows. There are 1000ft+ rolls of #18 on Amazon for $20. It's crazy stuff.
If you can afford it go with Amsteel (Dyneema). You can find thin line that's 1.75mm which has a break strength of 1600lbs. It is water and UV resistant with little to no stretch, and it's 6 to 8 times stronger than steel. It also absorbs no energy, so if you decided to use it for winching it won't break and rebound into your skull like steel cable would. When it breaks, it just drops straight to the ground, no rebound. Super safe. But yes, that's a 1/16" line holding 3/4 of a ton! It's also less than half as thick as the paracord she shows at 3:00. Probably the strongest line I've ever known. Line this strong can replace almost any other cordage in a pinch; just bring a small spool of dedicated sewing thread like she said and you're good to go. The only downside is price, depending on thickness and length.
OK, OK..... You WIN, Prepper Potpourri! BANKLINE it is! This video is AWESOME! I loved all of the points that you made. As a fellow content creator I'm a little jealous that you looked to have filmed this video in ONE take. I wish I could do that! I'm deranking paracord in my Urban kits and bringing back the tarred bankline in its place based on all of the excellent reasonings that you laid out. Thank you so much for making this video!
You're a smart guy for listening to Prepper Potpourri.
I do carry both but I love the convenience of bankline and it is very strong too.
I like bank line too. A spool of it goes a long way and it works great for almost every application except making prepper “jewellery” LOL
Nice. I'm going to need to re-watch this again and revise my setups :)
Thanks!
I love the fact that you not only question the conventional way but back it up your findings too. Thank you. I am sharing this video with family and friends. Please make more like this!
Awesome, thank you!
What a great down-to-earth approach. Thanks PP!
This video is AMAZING! Clear and direct to the point with a lot of examples.
I once used 550 cord to wrap my ball joint together. Didn't move quickly, or go on the highway, but it got me down the road. Note the post was still there so it was just used to lash the 2 pieces together.
I love it when preppers come up with new ideas and share them. Thank you
You bet
I haven’t purchased cordage yet for our go bags but now I need to rethink what’s in my shopping cart thank you
Glad it was helpful!
Use paracord for my reusable lines, I have pre-made Ridgeline and utility cords, but bank line for everything else. This is the first of your videos I have seen. Good job.
That cord organizer is pretty cool. Will definitely check that out .
Thank you for thinking this out & sharing your insights.
You are so welcome
Thank you for the excellent feedback
Never heard of this. Ty!
This a great video for new people, amazing overview!
Can tell from the way she talks about it she has done her homework and has real experience.
this was the best explanation of cordage I've seen yet !
it surly opened up my eyes to the many uses these different cordages have in prepping !
thank you .
Glad it was helpful!
Very interesting. Something else I've learnt from you today, thank you, going to add bank line to my kits
I lack in this area. Thanks for the excellent break down. After your expert video I'm leaning towards bank line. Thank you very much.
I agree that bankline is the bomb. I keep bankline, paracord and mule tape in my cordage bag. Mule tale is rated 1200 lbs. It takes up more room though
Good choices
Great info. I need to look at cordage you talked about as I am not familiar with it. Thanks for sharing.
My main issue with bank line, especially tarred bankline is it's not as freely available in places outside of the US. I managed to find some and imported it from the US to Australia and it's great but like paracord it's great at some things, worse at others. I have found it's great for lashings, guy lines and handle wraps. It's not so great for ridgelines as I use prussick knots to suspend/tighten my tarp on the ridgeline and I found bankline doesn't have that squishiness that makes prussick knots bind. However if you have a paracord ridgeline with a smaller diameter bankline prussik knots and binds very well but also slides easily when you need it to.
I think people get too caught up with what is the "best overall" vs what is the "best" for a specific job or task.
When I go outdoors for camping I tend to carry a mix of paracord, jute twine, bankline and dyneema as each has it's benefits vs cons for specific tasks.
I love this discussion. I got into paracord back in college. Made a bunch of bracelets, lanyards, and all sorts of other things. But after using it so much for that, I realized that other cordages are worth getting too. Similarly to you, I found that Bank Line is great for storing in the altoids tin kits, due to being much more compact while still being very tough. I've now collected some jute twine, braided mason line, Type 1A paracord, and Kevlar line.
Despite paracord being the common go-to for a lot of people for good reasons, it's also worth looking at other types of cordage.
I completely agree
This is one of the most comprehensive videos about prepper/edc cordage I have ever watched! Very glad that you were able to make it into my 'feed' with this one & hope to see more (subscribed)!
Wow, thanks!
Thank you for sharing this video!!! It’s very informative and definitely food for thought. I have parachord in my bags, but am adding bank line to my preps for the reasons you stated in this video! Thanks again for sharing!!!
What a well made video, I can't believe I'm just discovering this channel!
Wow, thank you!
My thoughts Bankline vs. Paracord: Being as I was a paratrooper with the 101st and an Army Ranger, I have tremendous respect for paracord and its uses. Also, I have an open mind about cordage, thus after testing Bankline against paracord the majority of my cordage needs my go to is #36 twisted Bankline foregoing paracord. Bankline #36 diameter is 2.159mm with a test strength of 340 lb. It seems the most common used paracord is 550. Its diameter is 4mm with a test strength of 550 lb.; we agree 550 lb. is better than 340 lb.". For the size difference one can carry twice the length of Bankline than paracord and reduce their carry weight as well.
Although 550 paracord test is 550 lb., double up #36 will conceivably equal 680 lb. strength with a diameter of 4.31mm. Yes, ever so slightly thicker than 550 4mm, however the Bankline will provide more strength than 550 paracord. Bankline holds knots much better than paracord. Bankline when soaked in water, oils, and the like does not lose strength, and quickly dries. Conversely, Paracord when wet loses strength and takes quite a while to dry. Also, an inherent property of paracord, it stretches upwards of 30%-ish, whereas Bankline does not stretch. Using paracord tie a ridgeline it will have a tendency to stretch/sag thus it will need to again be tighten, not so with Bankline.
For frayed ends of paracord and other cordage one can whip those ends with a single strand of twisted Bankline (contains three strands) without the need to burn/melt the ends of the cordage. Using 550 and then adding a prusik made from 550, the prusik will not perform as well as a prusik made from Bankline and the Bankline prusik would be safer as well. From habit or ego many folks use paracord. For many cordage needs, Bankline can easily replace paracord and provide better service.
Yes, old habits are difficult to give up and break. Truly, there are other types of cordage better than paracord.
Excellent analysis!
Outstanding sister! BTW, Paracord was used by the military for parachutes. and they used a lot of strings. Each side has 32 strings. The length is related to the diameter of the chute. I was not familiar with that orange cord for boats. However, I always used the 1/2 inch that is already made with the loop at one end. Great job explaining the different cords. Muchas Gracias!!
Prepper Potpourri versus TUP! 😂🤭😎 You are both awesome. I love the UA-cam prepper community. TUP I think you need to convert those charts into pdf for Prepper Poutpourri!
Oh, don't worry! I'm already working on this Prepper Potpourri inspired PDF!
Thank u hadn't even thought of this for my bug out bag
Excellent advice on cordage. Agree that 550 cord is not the "End All, Be All" cordage that some people tend to proclaim. I have some. Have even more bankline, for the reasons you mentioned. Additionally, I have all sorts of other cordage, ranging from sewing threads to good sized rope, too. Jute baling twine, butchers twine, clothesline wire, clothesline rope, artificial sinew, crochet cotton and rug weight yarns, along with bungee cords, ratchet straps and tow straps, to mention a few.
When buying and storing cordage for long term needs, consider how it will be used. Some situations are one time use and then discard. Tying tomatoes to stakes in the garden would be an example. An inexpensive, natural fiber, with sufficient strength is all that's needed. Save the expensive stuff for things like guy lines for tents and tarps, that will be used over and over again.
BTW, many types/sizes of electrical wire as cordage in an emergency. Extension cords are a good example. Another source of cordage can be green vines. Learn to recognize and stay clear of the poisonous varieties.
Good alternative suggestions
For mountain climbing and rappelling down cliffs & buildings I use 'dry rope' climbing rope. For hanging my clothes to dry during a camping trip I use paracord.
I mainly use it for craft purposes, but this is still good to see just to be informed as to what's out there (and what can be used for accents 😉).
As always a researched and informative video!
ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL!
THANK YOU!
HARD TO BUY THESE THINGS
IN CANADA, THOUGH.
BUT GREAT TO KNOW.
THANKS.
Yes, the Prepper obsession for paracord seem to stem from it's military use. As you say, the main benefit is that of multifunction.
Beware of synthetic ropes/string that has been exposed to the sun - degradation is a key factor in it's strength.
Kite string is pretty tough.
One should also consider Sailing Dyneema rope/cordage, very strong and robust.
A great and thought provoking video.
Dyneema is a great choice too
@@PrepperPotpourri Dyneema is the same as Amsteel blue, both are brands, the material is UHMW-polyethelene
Well, when SHTF, can you use bankline to tie your shoes should your shoe laces break? Maybe, but I'd much rather have a paracord than a bankline. Kite string is too small, it may even cut your shoes. Versatility triumph when everything depends on what you have in your bag. Paracord has proven to work and it's not going anywhere.
I think the reason paracord has been pushed for so long is because the modern prepper community is so heavily influenced by military survival and that training originated to help down pilots survive. So what do most downed pilots have? A parachute with paracord. Thus the training was designed to help the pilots survive with the resources they had immediate access to. So although paracord has lots of uses bank line does as well.
you are quite right, i feel that military folk (me included) tend to have tunnel vision about ''good kit''. And often miss the bloomin'
obvious. Have a good day Mike in County Durham UK
Another great video. I can’t wait to see further videos. Is there one on security?
I’ve always thought paracord was a bit of overkill especially considering price.
You definitely get more bang for the buck with bank line.
Excellent video!! Love #36 bank line but recently I've been considering Zing It or Lash It. Finding your video at this particular time is perfect. Being cheap, I'll probably stick with #36 tarred twisted bank line, I've got it already, I won't have to buy anything, it's not a financial climate that's screaming "live luxuriously". I believe in using less
I also carry small sewing bobbins or small bobbins like yours (love'm) of dyneema/kevlar line, braided fishing line, heavy thread, then a 30' hank of 550 a so called Survivor type of cord with the added strands of wire, fishing line, fire starting line and a 30' hank of #36 tarred bank line. Both 30 footers are set up as rapid ridge lines. Additionally I pack a 40' hank of #36 bank line for tie outs, lashing, etc. Been eyeballing some pretty cool Dutchware, no knot hardware, but I'm going to stick with knots (KISS). Seeing I live on the coast probably will add some Amsteel.
My 'Bug In' stash of supplies has tons of the variety of the line types above and more. I'm over stocked, lol. Really want to check out that Zing It, though. I need more line like a hole in the head.
A very informative and well thought out video. One of the benefits of paracords overbank line is how easy it is to untie and reuse. As stated bankline is much better for wraps and tripods but if you are only making something temporary it can be difficult to untie.
Hi graemeo3440, I can agree with your comment. Using Bankline for those temporary tie-ups I include a quick release knot (slip knot) and for added safety a stopper knot as well; it will not (play on words) undo itself. Time to untie, pull the working end of the quick release knot, BAM! it comes untied. Rope stuff is much fun.
thank you ,.... i did not know this .
I will defanetly use all of these in my applications !
Personally, I like to use 3/16 solid braid polyester rope. It's about the same thickness, is easy to untie, holds knots well, doesn't stretch like nylon, resists mildew and UV, doesn't absorb water, doesn't float (better for nets) and has up to a 900-pound break strength with a good brand. It has excellent durability/reusability, holds its shape, feels good in the hand and it's only about $9 for 100 feet. Can I separate it and use the filaments for fishing or sewing? Maybe... but carrying some actual thread and fishing line is a much better solution than having to destroy/disassemble my cordage.
New to the hobby of camping/bushcraft/survival/shelter building addict, and until now felt paracord is king lol.. Thanks so much!! I didn't even know about static and dynamic weight. Instant follower!
Awesome! Thank you!
I carry both, 550 paracord and #36 catahoula tarred an braided bankline, both are great stuff.
Excellent excellent video I need to rethink my cordage
I'll just get both. Winning!
I was just checking Amazon and the Bankline #60 is 12 cents per foot, whereas the paracord 550lb is only 5 cents per foot.
So where can get the CMI Bankline for half of the paracord price as you stated?
glad you explained that , I use #36 bankline from catahoula
Thank you much for the video. That Orange US / TricornE-spool tool may be nice to use to carry both bankline and paracord or whatever other line using one holder.
TricornE-Spool Tool-Multifunctional Paracord Device amzn.to/3XqjU9m
Mechanics do not have one wrench in there tool box so a person shouldn’t have one type of line in there pack. Great and very informative video!!
Great point!
Fantastic video full of great info., thanks!
Thanks for making the Video. Very educational.
Finally someone destroy the glory myth of Paracord 550, thanks for that! ❤️
Btw.
I use for my tarp a 2mm (600lbs) special Dyneema rope with nylon sheet in pitch-black.
For my hammock suspension a 4mm (1800lbs) special Dyneema rope with nylon sheet in pitch-black.
The prussik knots works great on this ropes because of the nylon sheet.
There are so many great ropes on the market, I don't understand why people still grab this paracord thing 😂😂😂
I so agree
Prepper, you put a lot of work in this video, it was great! You might add waxed sail twine, it is about 2 cents a foot at 160lbs. I like it because it is good for canvas and tarp sewing plus if you need to make a loop in an odd shape to fiddle around inside something it will hold the shape and allow you to place it on a bolt or part,etc.👌
Thanks for the tips!
Hello @Prepper Potpourri! This is formerly The Oily Prepper. I love this comparison! I have been thinking about switching my paracord over to tarred bankline for a while. You convinced me! Great comparison! Thanks for all of your research!!!
Glad to hear from you. Why the name change?
@@PrepperPotpourri I just wanted something simpler and more to the point.
Great video. I did not know about cordage. Something I have to check out. Thank you
I am going to buy some good quality Bank Line this week. Number #36 and number #60 Bank Line. The Paracord has too much stretch for my Survival applications.
awsome thank you great video, any recommendation on shock cord..
Great video. I use Amsteel to hang my food bag and use Zing It for my hammock tie outs.
Heresy!!! 😉 As someone who has used 550 cord for its' intended purpose hundreds of times, and is STILL struggling with the term "paracord", heresy I say!!! But alas you're right. Just like Daddy taught you, use the right tool for the right job. I've got two spools of 100lb bank line in my truck, just like the one you display at [13:55]. As for my get home bag, three 20' bundles of [gulp] paracord and 50' of bank line. Great comparative analysis and gutsy video. Tacti-kool preppers everywhere are having conniption fits.
I think having both is a great choice
I like the kevelar kite line. You can get various tests but 200 lb is a good diameter. The kevelar is very fire proof and good for use around fires (like hanging a pot) and very very strong for its bulk and volume. The one “con” for the cord is that you can’t “burn” the ends to seal it. You need to just tie a knot or use a dental floss to whip it. But for the space that it takes up… it’s a great option for some kits. It will also be more expensive than something like tarred bank line.
about cost but it sounds like a good option
@@PrepperPotpourri I just looked on Amazon. A 1,000 foot spool of 100 pound test line is 25.00. How long is it gonna take to use that much cord and what is the cost per foot? I think you will find the cost isn’t that great. Try finding 1,000 feet of paracord and look at that cost. Do you need that extra 400 pounds? If so… but 500 pound kite string. You’ll likely pay more but again. How long to use that amount. Cost per foot.
@@PrepperPotpourri if you are really hurting. Stinging nettles can be turned into cordage. As can the plastic bags they sell (or used to) in grocery stores. They do it all the time in Asia. They make fishing line by pulling and branding plain old plastic grocery bags. Look up the videos. It’s pretty cool. And you can create fishing line from almost any trash can or source of human dump.
It all depends on the situation. Any kind of strong rope:thread will do really as long as it does the job.
Also if you really wanna go there Kevlar thread is even stronger 👀😅
Good day to you Potpourri, Mike from County Durham UK I am an older fellow a former soldier and have a prepper mindset. I have long
thought that paracord is not the be all and end all. I enjoy wearing a paracord bracelet and wear regularly however i ensure my weave
is set up in such a way as to be able to release the cordage quickly. Whens shft happens untying your paracord bracelet is not the easiest
thing to do. I am a convert to using other cordage in particular nos 36 bankline and the comments seem to support your point of view,
quite rightly to :) Best wishes Mike
Great argument. Thanks for video.
I carry 150 ft of climbing webbing. A full roll of 36 Bankline and I have 2x 25 ft of climbing webbing for tree slings for my hammock. I have it all in a mollie bag that attaches to my pack. My pack fully loaded weighs 40 lbs. I have carried 80 lbs but in comfortable hiking with 40 lbs in hilly mountain areas. Including food. The only way to get it lighter is to buy ultra light gear. I'm not willing to give up the durability of my gear.
Thanks for sharing!
I long ago stopped buying paracord and started buying bank twine. "People say" but they never show so!
Paracord gets slippery when wet and is hard to knot compared to decent bank twine. Bank is also massively cheaper and more compact
Okay I give up. You, as ever, covered my points. I had a lot of paracord and I still carry some as the colours are helpful in dense forest for marking trails, etc
Ah, you are a rebel too :)
Great Video! Very informative. Thank You.
I am carrying a spool of dyneema string now but i will be getting some of that bankline and technora.
Its September 30th when i got this in my feed. Subbed.
i think bank line is better and cheaper but in my area you can't find it locally i have to order it but there is 2 types i like both but bank line more i agree with you on this one i uses yucca and a lot of natural cordage because i can't find bank line i gulf wax my natural cordage to water proof it great video miss solid wisdom
Good informational video, thanks for sharing, God bless !
I've also added "spider wire", a type of fishing line, to my kit. It's extremely strong. I've used it for sewing and crafts as well
as fishing. I'm sure there are other uses I have yet to discover 🙂
Good addition
Spiderwire has been my go to fine cordage for 20 years!
I like that stuff because you can shove so much of it into a small kit. It works as fishing line, of course, but it works great for low weight lashing, as well as an emergency sewing thread.
Big thanks, this is a very, very useful and informative video!
You're welcome!
“If you brought a needle…..”. Omg I laughed out loud!
I've watched this video 5 times. Thanks so much.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Mason line from home depot type stores is the best for lashing. it not by the rope. You will complete projects and if you have a netting needle you can make rabbit bolting nets. Try that with 550. They have 500 foot rolls fit nice in a pack pocket. They got white pink orange yellow and green. nice video by the way thumbs up.
Love this!!! Thank you so much...now i have to figure patterns for Bankline. LOL
Good video. I completely agree and came to the same conclusion you have some years ago.
Great video on an overdue topic!
How to use paracord for a lot of different things Bank line is good for putting a shoulder up but it is not for Ridgeline it's kind of hard to to get a trucker's knot hooked on Bank line it doesn't work
good tips
The problem with butane lighters is that the gas valve can be pressed if you are not careful packing them. I would turn the valve lever to the inside of the cord wrap to act as a "trigger guard". Great video.
Also, butane won't light if it's too cold. Happens all the time in my farm truck in winter.
Yes, I had the lighter in backwards
Excellant videio and information. Thank you.
What to use cordage for ?
1. It has to be reusable,
2. Easy to tie and untie knots,
3. Has to be versatile in various situations.
4. Small cordage and knots are not easily undone and therefore you will have to cut the line making it a one-time use.
Just a thought....
Great insight. You are correct.
Ngl, you’re making a lot of sense. Great video...liked and subscribed 👍🏻
Thanks for the sub!
For me, shock cord (fixing tent pole/pack); heavy duty thread and needles (clothing repair); red hemp twine (lanyards, tinder, flagging, also just...string) for me.
I have paracord too, but don't want to have to improvise in a reasonably foreseeable emergency.
Looks like you have it well thought out
Very informing video - great comparison.
Why did you leave out polyester and polypropylene - widely used by sailors?
As you mentioned, paracord has 25-30% stretch to absorb most of the opening shock if used as a parachute suspension cord, so if you hang a hammock with nylon, you'll probably end up with your butt on the ground in the morning. Also it isn't great for shelter building, joints tend to loosen - and it's slick, so you need special knots. Polyester and polypropylene have less stretch and a better grip, and are cheaper (esp.PP).
Stay safe and take care
Yes, there are many more types of cordage available. Each may be best for a certain purpose. People don't take time to consider how they are going to use the cordage.
750lb mil spec paracord is better for slinging bunks. Bankline is better for shelter building. Steel for snares and fishing line for fish. A good bag should have all 4.
I agree
@@PrepperPotpourri You do a great job. So many good choices you presented.
I usually have at least 3 different types of cordage in my kits
I have 3,000lb paracord. Paracord Planet made it years ago but the information on Amazon, Walmart etc was incorrect. Emailed the manufacturer and corrections were made.
I'm eyeballing 120 bankline.
This is some amazing information. really appreciate you're input 😁👍👍
Excellent video!!! Dental floss makes a great thread for different uses as well.
Yes it does!
I agree and, like spider wire, dental floss is strong, lightweight, and it doesn't take up much space in your bag.
Love it straight to the point lots of strong info to take to hart… Mahalo…💯🤙🏾
Can you do certain things with bank line though like use it to make traps where would have use paracord wound for a sling mechanism. A primitive survival trap like the spring spear trap which involves using cordage to activate the trap. Would bankline give you that same affect?
It would be worth an experiment to see. Each cord does have its uses.
Nice to hear someone else call out the orthodoxy on paracord. I cant find bank line, but I have used braided mason line for decades. The obsession with cannablizing 550 cord just seems nuts to me. Yes, I carry 550 cord, there is always 20ish feet with me, but a hundred feet of masons line lives in my EDC pack along with duct tape, and I have 20lbs Spiderwire (spectra fish line) in every bag plus a bit stashed with a needle in my wallet. Right tool for the job in this case doesn't add weight, it saves weight, because we arent trashing 550 cord.
Exactly
Having multiple cords is the best thing, great vid.
Would you not just make your own out of coconut?
@@HuplesCat I know how to make ssimple cord, bamboo is better.
@@MosaicHomestead Better than making leather from the flesh of invading Europeans???
@@HuplesCat it seems everyone is invading, home sales are going through the roof lol
It depends on the situation.😊😊😊
always good to question assumptions. Personally, I think bankline is great not just in size but for the weight. 10m of paracord is about 70g. 10m of bankline 36 is only 17. I was wondering whether you have weights for these others?
I do not. Sorry.
Great video you made a ton of valid points to consider.
Thanks!
Wow u know i never really thought about that but thanks for the info I think i'll be using bank line ... thank you !?
Used to use mason line to saw PVC pipe in half. Might saw other stuff as well, but that's what we used it for growing up. Plus it's about half as expensive as she shows. There are 1000ft+ rolls of #18 on Amazon for $20. It's crazy stuff.
It as a nice inexpensive option. Works great in my garden too.
Great video with great technical content, Thank You!!
Glad it was helpful!
If you can afford it go with Amsteel (Dyneema). You can find thin line that's 1.75mm which has a break strength of 1600lbs. It is water and UV resistant with little to no stretch, and it's 6 to 8 times stronger than steel. It also absorbs no energy, so if you decided to use it for winching it won't break and rebound into your skull like steel cable would. When it breaks, it just drops straight to the ground, no rebound. Super safe. But yes, that's a 1/16" line holding 3/4 of a ton! It's also less than half as thick as the paracord she shows at 3:00. Probably the strongest line I've ever known. Line this strong can replace almost any other cordage in a pinch; just bring a small spool of dedicated sewing thread like she said and you're good to go. The only downside is price, depending on thickness and length.
Good suggestion
I've used paracord a long time.Never had any problems with I was back in the seventies