Originally Posted By MarkNM
i've never hung with paracord...i alwaya thought it would be to sretchy/not durable enough


The "real" paracord was made with a braided outer shell and several twisted inner cords. This had a rated breaking strength of several hundred pounds, and usually said so on the label.

A cheaper and lighter paracord is now more common on the market. It had a braided outer shell and no or few twisted inner cords. This is more stretchy and of lower strength. The package never gives a strength number.

For example, for a couple of bucks, WalMart has this lighter and weaker paracord on their shelves.

If you have ever seen, or better felt, the different parcords, you will easily know the difference. If not, let price be your guide.