New England Accessory Cord

New England accessory cord is a nylon kernmantle utility cord sold by the foot in several diameters. Arborists use it for tool tethers, gear loops on saddles and bags, tie-offs, and general rigging of non-life-support items around the job.

Utility cord for the truck and the tree

Every kit needs some good cord. Accessory cord is handy for tool lanyards on handsaws and pruners, loops to hang gear on your saddle, tie-downs for bags and pole saws on the truck, and drawstrings on rope bags. The kernmantle build holds knots well and is easy to handle.

Buying by the foot means you can cut exactly what you need instead of buying a whole spool.

It is also good for making up quick throw bag pouches, holding a rope bag shut, or tying a pole saw to the truck rack.

Pick the diameter that suits the job: thinner cord for light tethers and gear loops, thicker cord for tie-downs and anything you want to grip easily.

Know its limits

Accessory cord is not climbing rope or hitch cord unless the specific product is rated and marked for that use. Do not use it for life support, and do not use it as rigging for wood. Melt or tape the cut ends to stop fraying, and tie secure knots.

Replace cord that is fuzzed, cut or stiff. For hitch cords and climbing-rated cordage, see our tech cordage section.

Keep a hank of cord in your gear bag; it is one of those things you will reach for on almost every job.