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)!
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.
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 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.
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!!
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!!!
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.
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!!!
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!
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.
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.
Prepper Potpourri versus TUP! 😂🤭😎 You are both awesome. I love the TH-cam prepper community. TUP I think you need to convert those charts into pdf for Prepper Poutpourri!
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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
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 😂😂😂
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
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.
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?
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.
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?
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'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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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?
Whst is bank line? Where do you get it and what is it original purpose? With it burn, can you use it to fish...what else can you use it for? Thank you!
Google: tarred bank line It is water resistant cordage that is used for many purposes, including fishing and anchoring hunting decoys, craft projects, and much more. I've found it at Walmart and several sporting goods stores in our area.
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
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.👌
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.
My go to strong line is USA Made 1250 Lb 1/2" Pull Tape | Pull Webbing | Flat Rope - 1000 FT (Many Strengths and Lengths Available) about 6 cents per foot on amazon, it doesn't slip around objects and and braided in 3 cords can pull out a pickup out of the mud.
Well, "Thank You". I did really like your comment on the, "Prepper Macrame" though. Alas, (my fashion sense), tells me that I just couldn't pull wearing one of those bracelet things off though! "Have you noticed the color schemes they use on those things"! Only thing about those is that they are a very easy way to carry extra cordage. But I prefer to do that on an "Cough" (Tomahawk) I have had since the eightie's. I used my old "macrame" skills to make a (26) inch, "loop type", lanyard for it. Also called a, "Tactical Retention Lanyard". Because "Yeah", It, "Could" keep me from dropping it on my big toe.... "(Tactical Tomahawks) are very sharp they tell me". Not sure why that makes it, (Lanyard), "Tactical" though... But it is also holding approx., (140) foot of cordage. That can be easily accessed for use as it is needed elsewhere. "Hee hee, (Easily) accessed after about two hours of picking that braid apart)"! But carrying ANY less weight on your shoulders by shifting even a small portion of your load to your wrists, arms, thighs, or equipment belt and etc.? THAT was ALWAYS a good thing!
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!
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.
What a great down-to-earth approach. Thanks PP!
This video is AMAZING! Clear and direct to the point with a lot of examples.
That cord organizer is pretty cool. Will definitely check that out .
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.
Never heard of this. Ty!
Thank you for the excellent feedback
I love it when preppers come up with new ideas and share them. Thank you
You bet
Thank you for thinking this out & sharing your insights.
You are so welcome
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.
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!
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
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.
Great info. I need to look at cordage you talked about as I am not familiar with it. Thanks for sharing.
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.
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!
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.
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!
Thank u hadn't even thought of this for my bug out bag
What a well made video, I can't believe I'm just discovering this channel!
Wow, thank you!
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
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!!
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 😉).
Another great video. I can’t wait to see further videos. Is there one on security?
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!!!
ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL!
THANK YOU!
HARD TO BUY THESE THINGS
IN CANADA, THOUGH.
BUT GREAT TO KNOW.
THANKS.
As always a researched and informative video!
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
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.
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!
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.
I carry both, 550 paracord and #36 catahoula tarred an braided bankline, both are great stuff.
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 👀😅
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.
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!
Prepper Potpourri versus TUP! 😂🤭😎 You are both awesome. I love the TH-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!
I am carrying a spool of dyneema string now but i will be getting some of that bankline and technora.
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.
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!
awsome thank you great video, any recommendation on shock cord..
glad you explained that , I use #36 bankline from catahoula
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
Fantastic video full of great info., thanks!
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.
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.
Excellent excellent video I need to rethink my cordage
I’ve always thought paracord was a bit of overkill especially considering price.
You definitely get more bang for the buck with bank line.
thank you ,.... i did not know this .
I will defanetly use all of these in my applications !
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.
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
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
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 video. I use Amsteel to hang my food bag and use Zing It for my hammock tie outs.
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.
Thanks for making the Video. Very educational.
I usually have at least 3 different types of cordage in my kits
Great video. I did not know about cordage. Something I have to check out. Thank you
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.
Its September 30th when i got this in my feed. Subbed.
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
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?
Big thanks, this is a very, very useful and informative video!
You're welcome!
Great Video! Very informative. Thank You.
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'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.
I've used paracord a long time.Never had any problems with I was back in the seventies
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.
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
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.
Good informational video, thanks for sharing, God bless !
Good video. I completely agree and came to the same conclusion you have some years ago.
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 watched this video 5 times. Thanks so much.
Glad you enjoyed it!
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
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.
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.
Whst is bank line? Where do you get it and what is it original purpose? With it burn, can you use it to fish...what else can you use it for? Thank you!
Google: tarred bank line
It is water resistant cordage that is used for many purposes, including fishing and anchoring hunting decoys, craft projects, and much more. I've found it at Walmart and several sporting goods stores in our area.
Yes and yes. Check out Oldtimer Lee's reply below.
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 :)
It depends on the situation.😊😊😊
Love this!!! Thank you so much...now i have to figure patterns for Bankline. LOL
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!
Ngl, you’re making a lot of sense. Great video...liked and subscribed 👍🏻
Thanks for the sub!
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.
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
Great video on an overdue topic!
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.
Excellant videio and information. Thank you.
My go to strong line is USA Made 1250 Lb 1/2" Pull Tape | Pull Webbing | Flat Rope - 1000 FT (Many Strengths and Lengths Available) about 6 cents per foot on amazon, it doesn't slip around objects and and braided in 3 cords can pull out a pickup out of the mud.
Good alternative choice
is bankline preferable to paracord? it looks like bankline would be harder to untie knots
Can be. But it is cheaper so just use new bankcord :)
@@PrepperPotpourri thanks :)
Well, "Thank You". I did really like your comment on the, "Prepper Macrame" though. Alas, (my fashion sense), tells me that I just couldn't pull wearing one of those bracelet things off though!
"Have you noticed the color schemes they use on those things"!
Only thing about those is that they are a very easy way to carry extra cordage. But I prefer to do that on an "Cough" (Tomahawk) I have had since the eightie's. I used my old "macrame" skills to make a (26) inch, "loop type", lanyard for it. Also called a, "Tactical Retention Lanyard". Because "Yeah", It, "Could" keep me from dropping it on my big toe.... "(Tactical Tomahawks) are very sharp they tell me".
Not sure why that makes it, (Lanyard), "Tactical" though...
But it is also holding approx., (140) foot of cordage. That can be easily accessed for use as it is needed elsewhere.
"Hee hee, (Easily) accessed after about two hours of picking that braid apart)"!
But carrying ANY less weight on your shoulders by shifting even a small portion of your load to your wrists, arms, thighs, or equipment belt and etc.?
THAT was ALWAYS a good thing!
140 feet is a lot of cordage. Good hack.
This is some amazing information. really appreciate you're input 😁👍👍
Great video you made a ton of valid points to consider.
Thanks!
I use decoy line. I like her.