SOLD PER METER Parachute cord, often called paracord or 550 cord for Type III, served initially as lightweight nylon kernmantle rope in parachute suspension lines. Over time, it has evolved into a versatile utility cord with various applications. Notably, astronauts utilized this cord during the 82nd Space Shuttle mission to repair the Hubble Space Telescope. Its braided sheath comprises 32 interwoven strands, resulting in a smooth texture. The all-nylon construction lends paracord some elasticity. Today, the Parachute Industry Association governs technical standards for parachute cord manufacturing, while the now inactive US military standard MIL-C-5040H specifies nylon material requirements. Type III paracord, commonly employed, boasts a minimum breaking strength of 550 pounds-force (2,400 N). Hence, its moniker "550 cord," and all six types are mandated to have a minimum elongation of 30%.