Quick Answer
Replace your worn paracord items when you notice significant signs of wear, such as broken strands, frayed ends, or a noticeable decrease in tensile strength. This is usually after 2-5 years of regular use or 10-20,000 miles of carrying. It's better to err on the side of caution and replace them earlier to avoid accidents.
Inspect and Identify Worn Paracord
To determine when to replace your paracord items, inspect them regularly by pulling on the cord to check for broken strands. Hold the cord between your thumb and index finger, and gently pull on it. If you notice any significant breaks or frays, it’s time to replace it. For example, if your paracord has 7-9 strands and 3 are broken, it’s no longer suitable for critical uses.
Tensile Strength and Service Life
Paracord has a service life of 10-20,000 miles of carrying, depending on the quality and maintenance of the cord. After this point, the tensile strength of the cord will decrease significantly, making it less reliable for critical tasks. To determine the lifespan of your paracord, you can perform a simple tensile strength test by hanging a weight from the cord and measuring the force required to break it.
Maintenance and Upkeep
To extend the lifespan of your paracord items, perform regular maintenance by inspecting and cleaning the cord, and storing it in a dry and protected environment. You can also use techniques such as knot-tying and cord-wrapping to prevent wear and tear on the cord. For example, you can use the “bunny ear” technique to secure the cord to your gear, which helps to prevent fraying and breakage.
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