How to Make a Paracord Survival Bracelet

Survival bracelets have become a popular accessory among outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists. They are not only fashionable and stylish, but they are also practical and functional. These bracelets are made from paracord, a lightweight yet incredibly strong material used by the military during World War II. In this article, we will discuss how to make your own survival bracelet in a relaxed and easy-to-understand language.

The process of making a survival bracelet is relatively simple and requires only a few materials. All you need is some paracord, a buckle, and a pair of scissors. There are many different types of survival bracelets that you can make, but we will focus on the most common type, which is a cobra weave survival bracelet. With this type of bracelet, you’ll have a long piece of paracord that can be used for a variety of purposes in an emergency situation. So, let’s get started and learn how to make a survival bracelet step by step.

Section 1: Materials Needed for Making a Survival Bracelet

Choosing the Right Materials

When it comes to making a survival bracelet, the quality of materials you use cannot be overlooked. You will need to ensure that you get durable and high-quality materials that can keep up with the challenges of outdoor activities. Here are the essential materials you need for making a survival bracelet:

Paracord

Paracord is the primary material needed for making a survival bracelet. It is a durable, lightweight, and versatile rope that is widely used by military personnel, hikers, and campers. There are different types of paracords, ranging from Type I–IV. Type III paracord is the most commonly used rope for making survival bracelets.

Buckles

Buckles are essential components of a survival bracelet, and they come in different sizes, shapes, and materials. They are used to secure the paracord in place and ensure that the bracelet stays on your wrist. You can choose from plastic, metal, or even custom-made buckles to give your bracelet a unique look.

Cutting Tool

To make a survival bracelet, you need a sharp cutting tool like scissors or a knife to cut the paracord to the desired length. A pair of scissors works best for cutting paracord as they give a clean cut without fraying the ends.

Closure Tool

In addition to a cutting tool, you also need a closure tool like a lighter to melt the ends of the paracord and fuse them together. The heat from the lighter seals the ends of the paracord, preventing them from fraying or unraveling.

Other Accessories

Apart from the above materials, you may also need some additional accessories to personalize your survival bracelet. These can include decorative beads, compasses, whistles, and reflective tape. However, these accessories are not mandatory but can add a touch of uniqueness to your bracelet.

Where to Buy Materials

You can easily find the materials needed for making a survival bracelet online or at your local hiking or camping store. It is important to ensure that you purchase high-quality and genuine materials to get the best results. Some popular online retailers to purchase materials include Amazon, REI, and Walmart. Therefore, take your time to research and find the best materials to use for your survival bracelet.

Choosing the Right Paracord for Your Survival Bracelet

The number one rule when making a survival bracelet is to choose a high-quality paracord. Paracords are known for their incredible strength and durability, making them an excellent choice for outdoor survival gear. However, not all paracords are created equal, and there are a few factors you need to consider when choosing the right one for your bracelet.

Type of Paracord:

There are two types of paracord: commercial grade and mil-spec grade. Commercial grade paracords are cheaper and readily available in most stores, but they are not designed for heavy-duty use. Mil-spec grade paracords, on the other hand, are made to strict military specifications and are highly resistant to wear and tear.

Cord Diameter:

Another factor to consider is the diameter of the cord. Typically, survival bracelets are made with either 550 or 750 paracords. The “550” refers to the weight capacity of the paracord, which is around 550 pounds. The thicker, 750 paracord has a weight capacity of around 750 pounds. The wider diameter of the 750 paracord makes it more comfortable to wear on the wrist, but it can also be more challenging to work with.

Cord Color:

Paracord comes in a variety of colors, and you should choose one that best suits your preferences or needs. Some paracords come in camouflage, which can be useful if you want to blend in with the surroundings. Others come in bright colors, which can be helpful if you need to be visible in an emergency.

Cord Pattern:

Another consideration is the pattern of the paracord. Some people prefer a simple, plain weave, while others like more intricate patterns, such as the cobra weave or the King cobra weave. There are also paracords with reflective tracers, which can be useful if you need to be visible in low-light conditions.

Cord Strength:

The strength of the paracord is an important consideration. Ideally, you want a paracord with a high tensile strength, which means it can withstand a significant amount of weight or pressure. A strong paracord will also be more durable and less likely to break or fray.

Cord Length:

The length of the paracord you need will vary depending on the size of your wrist and the design of your bracelet. As a general rule, you will need about 12 feet of paracord to make a bracelet that will fit most adult wrists.

Cord Quality:

Not all paracords are made equal, and you should choose a high-quality cord that won’t let you down in an emergency. Some paracords are made from inferior materials or have weak fibers that can break under stress. Always choose a paracord from a reputable manufacturer to ensure its quality.

Cord Brand:

The brand of the paracord is another important factor to consider. Some well-known brands are renowned for their quality and durability, while others are less reliable. Make sure you do your research and choose a brand that has a good reputation in the market.

Cord Price:

The price of the paracord should also be a consideration when making your survival bracelet. While you may be tempted to opt for the cheapest cord, remember that quality comes at a price. While some high-quality cords can be relatively expensive, they will be worth the investment if you ever find yourself in a survival situation.

Cord Supply:

Finally, consider the availability of the paracord. Some paracords may be harder to find, depending on where you live. Consider purchasing your paracord in bulk so that you always have a supply of cord on hand for future projects.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you start making your survival bracelet, you need to gather all the necessary tools and materials. Here are the essential tools that you will need:

In addition to these tools, you will also need to have the following materials:

It is essential to ensure that you have all the necessary tools and materials before you start making your bracelet. This will save you time and ensure that you have a finished product that looks great and functions as intended.

Measuring and Cutting the Paracord

The first step in making a survival bracelet is to measure and cut the paracord to the desired length. The length of the paracord will depend on the size of your wrist and how much cord you want to use.

To measure your wrist, wrap a tape measure around your wrist, leaving a little bit of slack so that your bracelet is not too tight. Once you have measured your wrist, add an extra inch and a half to this measurement. This will be the total length of your paracord.

Next, use a pair of scissors to cut the paracord to the desired length. It is important to ensure that you cut the paracord cleanly and evenly to avoid fraying.

Buckle Assembly

Once you have cut the paracord to the desired length, you will need to attach the buckle to the paracord. The buckle is an essential component of the bracelet that will allow you to wear it comfortably and securely around your wrist.

Start by threading one end of the paracord through the male end of the buckle, passing it over the center bar and then back through the buckle. Make sure that the paracord is pulled tight and centered on the buckle.

Next, repeat this process for the other side of the buckle, ensuring that the paracord is the same length on both sides. Once you have threaded both ends of the paracord through the buckle, pull them tight to ensure that the buckle is securely fastened to the paracord.

Weaving the Paracord

With the buckle assembly complete, it’s time to start weaving the paracord. The most common weaving pattern for survival bracelets is the cobra weave, which creates a decorative and functional pattern.

To do the cobra weave, start by holding one end of the paracord against the buckle and creating a loop on the other side. Thread the other end of the paracord through the loop and pull it tight.

Next, take the end of the paracord that you started with and create a loop on the opposite side of the buckle. Thread the other end of the paracord through this loop and pull it tight. Repeat this process until you have woven the entire length of the bracelet, leaving a little bit of paracord at the end to finish the bracelet.

Finishing the Bracelet

To finish the bracelet, you will need to melt the ends of the paracord using a lighter. This will prevent the paracord from unravelling and create a clean, finished look for your bracelet.

Start by cutting the excess paracord, leaving just enough to melt. Use a lighter to melt the ends of the paracord, pressing them against the bracelet to create a smooth, secure finish.

Once you have melted the ends of the paracord, your survival bracelet is complete and ready to wear. Congratulations! You have just created a functional and stylish accessory that can help you survive in a variety of situations.

Stay Prepared with Your Own Survival Bracelet!

Thanks for reading my article on how to make your very own survival bracelet! I hope that you were able to follow along with the instructions and create your own bracelet that will come in handy during any unexpected situations. Remember, it’s always a good idea to be prepared and having a survival bracelet is a practical and stylish way to do just that. Please visit again for more helpful articles on different crafts, tips and tricks to help you stay ahead of the game. Until then, stay safe and happy crafting!