Paracord is extremely versatile and can be used for many purposes, from crafting to survival situations. Many preppers, survivalists, crafters, and outdoor enthusiasts like to keep large quantities of paracord on hand. But storing massive amounts of cordage can be a challenge if you don’t have an organized system. Properly storing paracord allows you to protect it from damage, keep it clean and tidy, and easily access the type and length you need. In this article, we will explore tips and methods for effectively storing large volumes of paracord.
Why Store Bulk Paracord?
There are many good reasons to keep abundant quantities of paracord in your home, vehicle, or bug out location:
- Paracord is strong and durable. The nylon sheath and inner strands make it ideal for anything from lashing gear to building shelters.
- It has many uses beyond just tying things together. Paracord can be used for fishing line, sewing thread, shoe laces, animal leashes, and more.
- Paracord is lightweight and compact. Large amounts take up little space compared to other rope options.
- It provides peace of mind. Having ample cordage means you’ll always be prepared for emergencies and survival situations.
- Buying paracord in bulk quantities saves money compared to purchasing smaller spools.
- You’ll always have the right size on hand for your projects and needs.
If you’re involved in disaster preparedness, camping, hunting, bushcraft, or DIY projects, it makes sense to store copious amounts of versatile paracord for both everyday use and emergency preparedness.
Determine How Much Paracord You Need
Before developing a storage system, take time to estimate how much paracord you should keep on hand. Factors to consider include:
- Your usage – How often do you use paracord and for what types of tasks?
- Applications – Do you need paracord for survival, camping, crafting, pet leashes?
- Location – Is the paracord for home, vehicle, bug out bag, or permanent outdoor installation?
- Emergency uses – How much might you need for building shelters, snares, rigging, and other survival needs?
- Duration – For how many days should your supply last in a crisis scenario?
- Party size – How many people are you preparing supplies for?
As an example, a two person emergency supply for 90 days could require over 1,000 feet of paracord for essential tasks like securing a small tarp shelter. Craft projects or vehicle supplies could call for hundreds more. Considering your unique situation will help determine an appropriate bulk quantity of paracord.
Types of Paracord
When buying paracord in large volumes, you’ll need to select the size and type best suited to your purposes. Common options include:
550 Paracord
The most popular all-around utility cord, consisting of a nylon sheath and 7 inner strands, each rated for 550 lbs.
750 Paracord
Similar to 550 but slightly thicker, with a higher tensile rating of 750 lbs.
950 Paracord
Extra thick paracord with a 950 lb rating and 8 inner strands. Best for heavy duty tasks.
1,200+ lb Paracord
Thickest paracord with up to 11 inner strands and ability to handle over 1,200 lbs of force. Often used for winch and tow lines.
Type III Military Spec
Official mil-spec paracord sanctioned for military use. Highest quality but also most expensive.
Type IV Utility
General utility cord similar to paracord but not rated to military specifications. Lowest cost but also lower quality.
Choose the rating, size, and quality best matched to your intended purposes and budget when buying bulk paracord.
Paracord Storage Containers
To keep large paracord quantities neat, compact, and protected, store your cord in dedicated storage containers. Useful options include:
Plastic Storage Totes
Affordable totes in various sizes that seal out moisture and dirt. Allows organizing by cord type. Can access cords quickly by labeling each tote for content type and use.
5 Gallon Buckets
Durable sealable buckets keep paracord clean and dry. Attach a handle for easy transport. Label bucket exterior for content details.
Vacuum Bags
Squeeze out air and seal paracord in vacuum bags to reduce bulk. Use bags rated for long term storage.
Ammo Cans
Rugged, waterproof metal ammo cans protect paracord from elements. Available in many sizes. Can stack for efficient storage.
Footlockers/Trunks
Use rugged footlockers or trunks to neatly store large paracord quantities and access quickly. Ideal for home or vehicle.
Choose storage containers suitable for your space that keep paracord organized and protected.
Storing Paracord for Quick Access
To avoid wasting time digging for the cord you need, implement an organizational system that allows quick access. Useful tips include:
- Group similar cords – Store same type/rating cords together for fast retrieval
- Wind tightly or use spool boxes – Neatly wound or spooled cord won’t tangle when removed
- Label containers clearly – Mark content details like rating, color, and length on storage container exteriors
- Inventory your supply – Keep a detailed log of paracord quantities on hand and where located
- Frequently used near point of use – Keep high usage cord near project areas to avoid wasting time searching
With a logical storage scheme, you’ll be able to lay hands on a specified type and length of paracord in seconds instead of minutes.
Bulk Paracord Storage Locations
To provide quick access wherever you need it, store paracord reserves in key areas:
Home
Keep abundant cord in a closet, garage, basement, or shed at home for everyday projects and emergency use.
Vehicle
Store paracord in your vehicle or bug out bag for on-the-go tasks and mobile preparedness. Useful in case of breakdowns or accidents.
Outbuildings
If you have barns, sheds, or workshops, keep paracord onsite for equipment repairs and rural property tasks.
BOL (Bug Out Location)
Have ample paracord at your retreat or bug out destination for developing shelters, traps, and other off-grid survival needs.
Workshop
Handy to have cord stored in your workshop, hobby room, or DIY area for completing projects.
Camping/Hiking Gear
Pack quantities of paracord in your camping, hunting, and hiking supplies for use in the field.
Store reserves of paracord wherever you’re likely to need it most for fast access.
Creative Paracord Storage Ideas
With some creativity, you can develop handy storage solutions that keep paracord neat and make the most of the space you have available:
Wall-Mounted Shelves
Install shelving on a garage or basement wall to neatly organize paracord containers. Makes contents visible at a glance.
Cabinet Racks
Use vertical cabinet racks to stand paracord spools upright like files for compact storage.
Peg Board
Utilize peg board to tightly wind and hang organized cords from hooks. Can quickly grab needed type.
Under Bed
Store plastic totes or trunks under beds to get cords up off the floor. Ideal use of out-of-the-way space.
Shelf Totes
Place clear plastic totes on shelves for tidy cord storage while still being able to identify contents.
Wall Spools
Neatly arrange spools on a shop wall with hooks and rods to instantly see your paracord selection.
Get innovative with racks, hooks, spools and containers to conserve space while keeping your cords organized and accessible.
Maintaining Bulk Paracord Condition
To maximize paracord lifespan and performance, take measures to maintain quality:
- Avoid moisture – Store in waterproof containers to prevent mildew
- Avoid direct sunlight – UV rays can weaken fibers over time
- Control temperature – Don’t store long-term in extreme hot or cold
- Keep dirt and dust free – Store in sealed containers
- Inspect periodically – Check for signs of damage, wear, or pests
- Use older cord first – Rotate stock to use oldest cords before deterioration
With proper storage methods and periodic inspections, your paracord inventory should provide years of reliable service when you need it.
Conclusion
Having abundant reserves of paracord can provide security, versatility, and preparedness. But realizing these benefits requires properly storing your cords to keep them organized, in good condition, and readily accessible. By investing in quality containers tailored to your space, developing a logical storage plan, and utilizing creative solutions, you can effectively store even massive amounts of paracord. Implementing organization and maintenance best practices will ensure your substantial paracord investment is protected and ready to meet whatever needs may arise.
