In the great outdoors, the ability to bind, tie, or knot objects can make all the difference. Whether it's to build a shelter, repair a tool, or secure your bag, cordages quickly become essential.
In this article, discover 3 reliable methods to create and use ropes in survival situations, using natural or recovered materials.
1. Make a rope with plant fibers
Many trees offer a fibrous inner bark usable as cordage. It is enough to extract the woody fibers, then braid them securely.
The best trees for this: elm, linden, white walnut, mulberry, white oak, red cedar…
Once braided, test the strength by pulling on it and tying a simple knot. You can also combine several strands for more durability.
2. Use animal nerves as ligatures
The game tendons (deer, roe deer...) are very effective natural ligatures. After removing them, dry them completely, then crush them to obtain filaments.
Moisten them and twist them into a continuous strand. The wet fibers are sticky: no need to tie a knot, they harden naturally as they dry.
Perfect for attaching thin objects, securing small equipment, or assembling lightweight structures.
3. Reuse leather or recovered materials
In survival situations, even an old belt can become valuable. Once undone, it provides several meters of strong threads.
Another option: raw leather, cut into strips, moistened then dried under tension, produces thick and strong cords.
These materials are excellent for creating babiches, straps, or transport ropes.
Conclusion
Knowing how to create, choose, and use a good rope is part of the basics of survival. By mastering these three techniques – plant-based, animal-based, recovered – you gain autonomy and safety.
A well-made simple link can save your equipment... or your life.
