Wrap Knife Handle With Paracord: A Step-by-Step Guide

by Henrik Larsen 54 views

Hey guys! Ever wondered how to wrap a knife handle with paracord? It's not just a cool, survivalist skill; it also adds grip, comfort, and a personalized touch to your trusty blade. Plus, you'll have a length of strong cord readily available in emergencies. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, so even if you're a complete beginner, you'll be able to transform your knife into a paracord-wrapped masterpiece. So, let's dive into the awesome world of paracord wrapping!

Why Wrap Your Knife Handle with Paracord?

Before we get started, let's talk about why you might want to wrap a knife handle with paracord in the first place. There are several compelling reasons, ranging from practical to aesthetic:

  • Enhanced Grip: A paracord wrap provides a much more secure and comfortable grip, especially in wet or slippery conditions. The textured surface of the cord gives your hand something to hold onto, preventing accidental slips. This is crucial for safety and efficiency when using your knife for tasks like cutting, carving, or even self-defense.
  • Improved Comfort: Bare knife handles, especially those made of metal or hard plastic, can be uncomfortable to hold for extended periods. Paracord adds a layer of cushioning, making your knife much more ergonomic and user-friendly. Say goodbye to hand fatigue!
  • Emergency Paracord: This is perhaps the most significant advantage. By wrapping your knife handle with paracord, you're essentially carrying several feet of strong, versatile cordage with you at all times. Paracord has a wide range of uses in survival situations, from building shelters and making snares to repairing gear and first aid. Having it readily available can be a lifesaver.
  • Personalization and Aesthetics: Let's be honest, a paracord wrap looks pretty darn cool! You can choose from a variety of colors and patterns to create a unique and personalized look for your knife. It's a great way to add some flair to your favorite tool.
  • Shock Absorption: The added layer of paracord can help absorb some of the shock from impacts, which is beneficial if you use your knife for chopping or batoning.
  • Added Handle Thickness: For those with larger hands, a paracord wrap can increase the thickness of the handle, providing a more comfortable and secure grip.

In essence, wrapping your knife handle with paracord is a practical and stylish upgrade that enhances both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your blade. It's a win-win situation!

Gathering Your Supplies

Okay, now that you're convinced of the awesomeness of paracord wraps, let's gather the supplies you'll need. Don't worry, it's a pretty straightforward list:

  • Knife: Obviously! Choose the knife you want to wrap. Make sure it's clean and dry before you start.
  • Paracord: This is the star of the show! You'll need a length of 550 paracord, which is the standard type. The amount you need will depend on the size of your knife handle and the type of wrap you choose. A good rule of thumb is to use about 1 foot of paracord for every inch of handle length. It's always better to have a little extra than not enough, so err on the side of caution. You can find paracord in a wide variety of colors and patterns, so have fun choosing one that suits your style.
  • Scissors or Knife: You'll need something to cut the paracord. A sharp pair of scissors or your trusty knife will do the trick.
  • Lighter or Matches: This is crucial for melting the ends of the paracord to prevent fraying. Safety first, guys! Be careful when using fire and work in a well-ventilated area.
  • Masking Tape (Optional): Masking tape can be helpful for securing the starting end of the paracord and keeping the wrap tight as you work. It's not essential, but it can make the process a little easier.
  • Smooth Flat Tool (Optional): A fid, marlinspike, or even the blunt edge of a butter knife can be useful for tightening and adjusting the paracord as you wrap. This will help you achieve a neat and professional-looking finish.

Once you have all your supplies gathered, you're ready to move on to the exciting part: the wrapping itself! Make sure you have a clean, well-lit workspace and maybe put on some tunes to make the process even more enjoyable.

Step-by-Step Guide to Wrapping Your Knife Handle

Alright, let's get down to business! This is where the magic happens. We'll be using a common and relatively simple wrapping technique called the