How To: Create a Paracord Handle

From time to time, I have wanted or needed to make a carrying handle on a bag or other item. Using the same knots that are used in the most common paracord bracelet, it's a simple matter to create yourself a sturdy handle as long as you have two anchor points, one for each end of the handle. Most recently, I purchased a scabbard for my H&R. I really wanted to make a leather one myself, but my leather skills are just mediocre, and a large section of leather for a project like just is not cheap! I haven't given up on crafting a leather one at some point, but it'll be a while before my leather skills have me confident enough to try. Anyway, the scabbard I found is a cordura one, lined with molle attachment straps and loops.

Below, I have laid out the simple method I use to craft a paracord handle - in this case using the molle loops. If you give this process a try, be sure to leave me a comment if you have any questions at all. I read all comments and will gladly try to walk you through any tough spots that I have not explained well here.

1. Gather your supplies. For this project, a lighter, sharp blade, and about 10 feet of paracord was all I needed.

2. The scabbard has molle loops on both sides of the scabbard. Run the paracord through the loops on both sides. (The number of loops you run it through will determine the length of the handle. I went under 3 loops which left me with about a 4.5 inch handle in the end.) Center the tails of the paracord so that you have equal lengths on both sides of the item and tie a simple overhand knot.

3. Run the two tails down the area where the handle will be. In doing so, you are actually creating the foundation of your handle. Run the tails under the loop at the bottom. Don't pull the "handle" tight. Leave a little play in the paracord so that you have enough space to tie your handle knots used to thicken the handle.

4. Using the tails, begin knotting down, or up depending on your perspective, the length of the two-strand handle you have made. I know many folks are already familiar with the cobra stitch, but in case you are not, here is a good video explaining it. It's a great pattern and useful for all kinds of stuff.

5. Continue knotting until you reach the other end. If you wish for a thick handle, reverse back on the handle you just made and continue to tie cobra stitch knots. The cobra-stitch on top of cobra-stitch technique create the 'king cobra' effect and yields a thicker handle. If you are happy with the handle you have, proceed to step 6.

6. Trim the tails off and melt the ends to prevent fraying. You're done!

7. Now you have a handle to carry that thing around!

Gratuitous shot of the H&R in the scabbard, pre-handle