Is this the best rope for Survival and Bushcraft? What is Bankline?

[@OverlandOne]

Never heard of bank line even though I have been living in the woods for the past 16 months. Thanks Dan I always learn a lot from you.

[@kabul0607]

I lashed tomato cages together with #18 bank line, about four years ago, I think. Yeah it’s still there and holding tight. Great stuff

[@jonbroadsword7572]

Thank you for all the information. A lot of 'Outdoorsy Channels' throw around the term "Bankline" but never explain what it is or how to use it, so it was really nice to have a simple 101 class about it.

[@TheSaneHatter]

Excellent point: for all that most people tell us, a "bankline" is where you wait to make your deposit with the teller!

[@DirtMvGirt]

Corporals Corner has been on the bank line tip for years... thanks cant wait to view.

[@ForestRJ]

yeah I been watching several of his acquaintances that he recommends and/or was associated with, and still do. Wife loves the guy, lol.

[@busansanai]

Some other youtuber shared his load out and it's braided 36 (mainly for shelter building) and #9 twisted so it can be used for sewing or fish line. And I kinda liked that logic. I guess I need 18 and 9

[@outdoorslifesurvivecraft5078]

#18 is the go-to line to have, but I do keep some of the other 2 with me. I like having the #36 if I'm making a set of some kind. It's not necessary, it just makes me feel a little safer in it. The nylon twine I have is for temporary tying. If I'm going to tie a few things together to help make exact cuts, I don't want to waste my bank line if I'm going to just cut it apart when I'm done. Sometimes I'll use it if it only has to last a couple nights. But when it comes right down to it, I would never go without the #18. It's a must have thing.

[@MattTransit]

Heard everyone on outdoor videos talking about "bank line," yet not one explained what it is until now. Thanks for the video and the information.

[@stevemoore5053]

Wasn't aware of bankline, thanks for the heads up.

[@FerociousSniper]

When I was a kid, I used mason's twine almost exclusively. It's cheap, it has decent poundage, and it works.

[@RandyBuckey]

I get my bank line from the Fish Net Company LLC out of Jonesville, Louisiana. Nice service and the people I've talked with are great. Low prices and lots of good quality stuff.

[@KevinsCampingAdventure]

I have bank line, twine, and jute cord. I have found a use for all of it, but I would have to say it depends on application and budget. Awesome video. ✌👍

[@johnny30806]

The 3 strands that make up the #18 work great for fishing line on bushcraft made fishing poles.

[@dchall8]

When I bought a catamaran in 1988 I quickly learned that there were few (very few) reasons to use nylon line on a boat. Polyester (DuPont trade name - Dacron) is the line to use in wet conditions. I used some fancy Dacron for the larger sizes but used simple hardware store polyester line for the small stuff. For what you are doing, I would go immediately to SCUBA reel line. It's the same diameter and much tougher if there is any chance of your project getting wet (like camping).

[@timlacy2284]

Thanks Dan, For sharing this information on Bank Line . You also need to watch out if its black doesn't mean it's tared Bank Line.

[@Scarywoody]

I used Bankline to string my flag pole about 10 years ago. Still looks new and the knots look like I tied them yesterday.

[@kentmulter]

Dan, do you ever use twine made from jute or sisal? It's not slippery like nylon. It's a good fire starter; it will catch a spark from a firesteel if you un-twist it and make a bundle of fibers. And being a natural fiber, if you abandon it in the woods, it will eventually break down and go back into the Earth. It's really inexpensive, and it's available at any hardware store.

[@miken7629]

If you get #12 Bank Line you can use it with size 14/18 YARN Needles, this is good for leather & canvas projects. I only know saddle stitch method using two needles with a length of Bank Line.

[@rancidcrawfish]

When i first started i def bought the braided kind, thinking it'd be stronger so why not. On top of not twisting apart it doesn't bend or comply the way you need it to. Lesson learned

[@THE-RIVER-RAT]

I use this stuff all the time (indoors and out) Great video matey.

[@jameswhitaker1324]

Thanks for the video on this. Looks like bankline is basically tarred marline. I’ve used net twine for a lot of things. It has most of the grip of tarred marline, but it’s easier to get in the Pacific Northwest at the fisheries supplies in lots of different diameters and strengths. I’ve actually used it to make nets, believe it or not, lol. It’s way more skookum than the white stuff you showed in the beginning. Mostly it’s dark green, but you can get it in various different colors. FWIW, years ago when I last played with making a bow drill fire from stuff I found laying about in the woods, tarred marline was the best for the bow string because of it’s grip on the spindle. Didn’t try making my own cordage for that. Presumably cedar bark, nettles or spruce roots would have worked, too, but the tarred marline was great.

[@johnpawlak7484]

Love the woodpecker behind you.

[@May_Day45]

I use a mix of different thicknesses of kevlar and seems to be cheaper and cleaner than Bankline plus it holds a knot and does not catch a flame easy, the only downside I've found compared to Bankline is if you are using it to fish with, the kevlar line will absorb water and sink whereas the Bankline will float.

[@paulamcclure3402]

The ultraviolet component of sunlight degrades and decomposes Kevlar (known as "UV degradation"), therefore, Kevlar is rarely used outdoors without protection from sunlight. [Some Kevlar cordage is available with a polyester "jacket" covering to make it more weather resistant.] With proper tarring, the tarred bank line is much more resilient and highly resistant to UV light, rot, abrasion, moisture, and many chemicals (e.g., oil, gasoline, etc.). Both have their respective applications... however, tarred bank line is far more resilient and has more multi-use applications in the great outdoors. Happy Trails! 🇺🇸 🏕 🌲

[@May_Day45]

@@paulamcclure3402 The kevlar cordage does have an outer sheath to protect it....just like paracord has an outer protection....just like bankline has an outer protection. But thank you for the cut-and-paste information.

[@mannihh5274]

Kevlar does't catch a flame at all - being from Aramide fibers, it doesn't melt or burn, but desintegrates above 400°C/750°F. You have to use glue to stop it from fraying. Great stuff to cut through plastic handcuffs, small wood or create a silent and flexible pot-hanger/bail.

[@May_Day45]

@@mannihh5274 Good to know that it does not catch a flame at all, I've never really tested it to that extreme but I've seen it being used to cut off branches and stuff, as for the ends fray I just tie a knot at the end 😉

[@mannihh5274]

@@May_Day45 - that's right, but then it won't pass through small holes anymore . Many items come with very small lanyard holes, like pocket knives, flashlights, lighters etc. I like Kevlar as a lanyard, because it's so strong and heat-resistant. I use kite-string, they are coated and pretty UV-resistant too, holds up for three years now and still oing strong.

[@quinntheeskimooutdoors6234]

Thanks Dan, I have #18 and 36. 18 will go a long way 😊

[@jesuscorrales1977]

Short sweet and straight to the point. I was big into Paracord but learned how to use bank line and fell in love with it. More cordage but without the bulky ness

[@jkocol]

THANK YOU! First time I have ever heard a simple explanation of where Bankline came from, why was it created, and for what purpose. I knew it would be a worthwhile video. Thanks Dan, great video as always.

[@wildsnook]

I prefer braided masons twine. I propose more Bringing what you need to stitch etc.

[@dragonshoarddesign3094]

If you're binding things together get binding wire and a nice pair of pliers or multi tool

[@grumpyoldwizard]

I hadn't heard of bankline. Thank you so much! It solves a lot of problems.

[@brucemcqueen3308]

In Southeast Alaska and Washington State I think this is more commonly referred to as Seine Twine. Great stuff

[@pontificusvascillious5287]

i'm 18 and twisted ... so i gotta get me some of that bankline!

[@AndreaOwnn]

Kevlar kite string is amazing. And pretty cheap. Amazon 1,000 foot spool for 25 bucks

[@BUZZKILLJRJR]

Iv been useing string line for construction for years now, neon pink, green orange so on not the same as bank, minus the tar obviously,didn't know about bankline till many years later on. Carried it for years now ever camping and hunting trip now i carry both hahaha

[@lawrencelewis1036]

Iv been using Dyna-glide by Teffeburger for years. It's definitely the best but way more expensive.

[@badbadbob1]

Two things, They do not sell Bank line in Washington. But when I was in Texas and stopped at the Academy store to look for it, They said they were getting out of selling the line because of the Tar. I did find all I would ever need in Louisiana. Amazon has a agreement with Washington State that they will not fill orders for (Band items.)

[@JoeCool-mj1so]

Sounds like it's going the way of strike anywhere matches.

[@jasonjohnson6344]

I’ve gotten it from Amazon on multiple occasions and I’m in WA. Is this something new in the “regulations”?

[@badbadbob1]

@@jasonjohnson6344 You can not order 134A freon or Testers oil base model paints just to mention 2 that Amazon would not sell me. gas appliances are next on the chopping block.

[@jasonjohnson6344]

@@badbadbob1 It works for me on bank line in WA. I don’t know about the rest of the restrictions you mentioned.

[@michaelmerrick5472]

Curious as to why it is banned in Washington, although I'm sure it won't surprise me.

[@VanGoWanderlust]

Seems ok for certain purposes, but when I tie things I usually need to untie them later and it seems like bank line creates knots that are holding for life.

[@user-gn5uy6lx7z]

FYI there are more than 2 sizes of bankline, more like 12 on Amazon. I use Paracord for certain things, but with the bankline, it is more bang for the buck.

[@danquarterman]

Yup we use the Bankline to build and repair industrial fishing nets. STRONG STUFF, and knots hold forever.

[@Colorado-overland2020]

Those are the two exact numbers that I use for my bank lines. I keep some of both with me. I don’t even use Paracord anymore.

[@Overlord88]

I like to use waxed nylon myself it's environmental and doesn't have any unpleasant rub off. It also comes in multiple colors.

[@WindsongSoundBath]

For tarp camping, what thickness waxed nylon would you recommend?

[@downeastprimitiveskills7688]

I like a #60 for bow drill cord. It comes in sizes from 9 to 96 96 being the largest.

[@timothyorendorff7642]

Tar scent one of my favorite things, just kidding, good option to add. Up to now my go to cordage has been polyester.

[@stinkydroolface]

Apparently bankline is more prevalent in the south. I've never seen it anywhere in PA. So, I ordered some about 5 years ago.

[@daviddilley8310]

36 will break down to 3 strands (for smaller projects) each of which break down to 3 strands for your sewing etc.

[@daven953]

CLEAR! I'm liking it. Thanks.

[@Jaden48108]

Bankline beats paracord everyday of the week (and twice on Sunday? Yeah, that too). If paracord is exposed to the sun it goes stiff and brittle after 3 to 5 years. Plus the inner strands are kind of slippery, much like the nylon string you showed. Get more bang for the buck with #18 bank line.

[@bcpioneer59]

Just curious since it is tar saturated can it be used as fire starter by pulling stands apart to help get fire going, would it take a spark easy seeing as it is a petroleum product ?

[@jasonjohnson6344]

I’ve used masons line before because I’m familiar with how strong it is but bank line is better for all the reasons you mentioned here. Imo ✌️

[@RomeoDelta-gw7dd]

In my cordage bag I have jute, bank line, 550 cord, wire and monofilament

[@gregpoe1993]

Any and every piece of twine not made by hand is and should be suggested. 👍 All important.

[@SebastianSynn18252]

I used to swear by paracord. But bank line is far superior. I agree thst #36 is too thick for most jobs. I use #18 sometimes but I actually use #12 the most. It's extremely thin yet very strong.

[@michaellynch1159]

#36 Bankline works way belter for bow drill fire for me

[@Georgecobb-s1v]

Thanks for the clarification.

[@TroopLeader]

This one was very entertaining. Well done!

[@rodneyhussey8012]

I'm old school, and in my day in Boys Scouts, we used jute twine. Can you do a thing of comparing bank line to jute twine

[@claudedesforges5496]

Thank for the info i really appreciate....

[@davedeatherage4902]

Excellent Sir.

[@jonfisher9214]

Here in the UK you can't buy bankline anywhere. having seen a few US bushcrafters using it I managed to find and order some on Amazon but it's #36 braided. Thank you for the info.

[@jesusisgod6474]

Great class Dan!

[@dalemagee8848]

What types of projects would you use each #18 and #36 bank line for? I know you briefly mentioned structural for #36 and fishing/ sewing for #18, but more examples would be nice. Also where does jewtwine fit into the mix? Should I carry a roll of bankline and a roll of jewtwine? What are the uses/benefits of each? I look forward to your response, or a video would be awesome! Keep up the great work Dan, your videos are the best and have helped my Bushcraft journey immensely!

[@paulkachurak7878]

first, and I’m not trying to be a grammar not-zee, it’s jute twine. second, Dan has a video several months old about building a pack frame. He uses bank line in that build. I went to his advance bushcraft class and built the pack frame. I used #36 and Dan is right, it is bulkier to tie. I “found” some #18 at the class and stuck it in my haversack. It’s noticeably thinner and easier to tie. I’ve seen other bushcraft channels using bankline instead of parachord for tarp ridge lines. Not sure if they used 18 or 36.

[@ecornely]

In EU you can't imagine how hard it is to get some. You nearly always have to pay a lot for delivery. I think that's part of the reason why I keep using paracord though I bought one roll of bankline online to see the difference and test it. I have to say that if it was cheaper than paracord I would be using it more but with delivery cost... forget it !

[@gregpoe1993]

Love the content.

[@terrycheek4097]

I have never tried 18, only 36. I am thinking about ordering some for my kit.

[@terrycheek4097]

@AboveAverageMan97 it’s on order

[@bennicastro6242]

Good video

[@victorzaidan6493]

I couldn't even find it in Brazil. Here we have real, national paracord that can hold more than the number (550 can hold more than 550 pounds), and it costs 0.5 dollars per meter. It used to be even cheaper. I bought it, which would be at today's exchange rate, 0.2 dollars per meter. It's insane. So I only use paracord and sisal. Unfortunately, I don't like the 550 so much for tying. I find the cover too smooth for knots. The 750 is very soft and nice and holds well. But I only have 4xx (I don't remember if it's 425 or 450) and 550. For small things, maybe a closed cord would be good. It's cheap and strong. But I prefer to use sisal, even though it's natural. I really avoid cutting paracord.

[@smoke5620]

Hi Dan,as always a great video for tips and tricks 👍👍

[@SmithandWesson22A]

Wish it was available at the ( big hardware chain) in Australia

[@lw4769]

Bank line is good stuff

[@sharzadgabbai4408]

You advertise Home Despot, lows snd Amazon- sll with labor and. Environmental Baggage.. I buy from Andy at 5COL Survival in N Carolina.

[@dbergum1]

ordering mine now...throwing the nylon garbage out....thanks Dan

[@kellywelch3]

Does the #36 work better for prussic knots on paracord? The #18 seems a little small for that application.

[@paulangelo1974]

It's infused with tar. Question: I live where it gets real hot. Any issues with the tar melting and adhering to itself or other items?

[@handsmcneil]

Came here to ask this

[@Skam1one]

No. Ive been using it for years and it's hot where I live. To be honest, if you were never told it was infused with tar, you wouldn't know. You can't feel any residue or anything like that either.

[@paulangelo1974]

​@@Skam1one Thank you

[@clarkleakins879]

Have not seen bank line in my sporting goods shops. Will look at the seaside fishing places. Have you seen, inspected, "Uncle Macs Utility Cord". 100% Dacron Polyester 200lb test, olive green, appears to be woven exterior, twisted interior.

[@Danbombard1]

Wasn't there a #26 or was it # 86 bankline at one time 🤣 ,if your a long time follower of Coalcracker Bushcraft like myself you will get that! Love bankline have used it for year's for many thing's. Another awesome video as always brother 👍 💪

[@peterlongton9440]

Hey Dan! Can we use #18 bank line for a bow drill?

[@johnstrelow2533]

Question… I haven’t looked at the other comments yet… but can you use trappers knots or bank line / fishing knots? For this slippery kind of rope/line? Just curious, asking for a friend LoL

[@timsheridan3987]

What about mason line that stuff doesn't break and can handle a bit of a load

[@daveh7720]

That nylon cord Dan showed at the beginning is what Lowes sells as mason twine. It comes in multiple colors but it's not meant for long-term outdoor use. Nylon breaks down over time when exposed to sunlight.

[@johnh.8987]

Just saying, many bait shops sell bankline, epically those catering to river fishing.

[@stevestory8483]

Great video

[@ifell3]

Bankline is the new paracord 😅

[@ForestRJ]

Well hell #36 can do upwards of 320 and I think, then #42 is 360, and you are still less volume of paracord. Even if you went to #60, that is the same as Para, and it is still less volume than the equal amount of standard 550 Paracord. So win/win .

[@alanberry4919]

Why not pack both? They both have their pros and cons and are lightweight.

[@PulpParadise]

Not *everyone* wants to smell manly... Although your audience probably skews that way. ;-) Thanks for the info. I haven't gotten around to picking up my bankline yet, but it's on the list.

[@freddyoutdoors]

Really cool stuff Dan

[@cecilm3720]

I'm curious. Would "tactical cord" which apparently is like 550 paracord but smaller (2.4mm, 275lbs, multi-strand) be an alternative?

[@dwaynebeavers2088]

My question for those who might use it. Is what is the #36 bank line really good for, because I've always heard what the #18 bank line was good for?

[@luisloya1120]

Please do a video using this #18 bankline.

[@WindsongSoundBath]

So, just for regular tarp camping, what do you recommend?

[@BrianM-44041]

I cant find bank line anywhere around me here in geneva ohio, What stores sell it? I used to buy it at kmart back in the day to run trot lines and i need some now for preparedness.

[@jamesdude4220]

I been using same troutline now for ten yrs think about it

[@bradjeske7962]

I am in western Canada and I go to a couple of the big box stores looking for bankline and nobody has a clue as to what it is. I am not sure if canada carries bankline. I am wondering what is it???!!

[@thevirginiabushcrafter8833]

Thanks for Sharing

[@orionthedefender985]

Thanks for the info. I have found some line in the store call set line and drop line. Is it the same thing??

[@spiritwhispers667]

brilliant

[@apar1560]

👍👍👍 Thanks 👍

[@jeffpeters4497]

I s there a difference in quality of bank lines? I have heard that there is some brands that use a higher quality of tar that doesn't have as strong of a smell and doesn't get soft, sticky, and melty as other brands. In your experience, is this true and if so, what brand would you recommend?

[@daveh7720]

Does bank line stretch much? That's something I dislike about nylon cord is that it stretches. It makes it tough to lash things together tight.

[@texascelt8363]

Very good video I have been wondering what the deal was with bank line I think I will go order the 18 and the 36 just to have it on hand 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@Chilly_Billy]

How did it get the name?

[@waltergottschalk9878]

What about the 550 Paracord that I have been using for years and have never had any problems!? Greetings from Germany - Walter 👍🏻

[@podden22]

Why can't we get bankline in Europe (Sweden)? Only a few items shows up on amazon and the seem very pricey and with high shipping costs. What does it go for over the pond? If an outdoor retailer in EU would sell it they would get some good sales to the bushcrafters here!

[@GrumpysAlaska-ue2lp]

I wouldncheck with a hardware / fishing / boating store in a coastal town. "Bank line" is primarily designed to used in weaving and repairing fishing Nets and obviously might have a differant name in other countries, even in the US ...bank line is pretty much a Southern thing, fisherman in other parts refer to it as seine twine

[@kevinschmith9379]

What about Masonary line? Is that any good?

[@JoeXTheXJuggalo1]

I've always wanted to get some bank line but when I think i found some it's not actual bank line but oromoted as bank line. I'm not like my dad who goes "it looks like it so it must be it and this one is way cheaper anyway. So lets buy it".