Gear
No. 12 Bank Line 1 lb Roll
Tarred nylon bank line for lashing, repairs, fishing, and net making.
Topic summary
Tarred nylon bank line for lashing, repairs, fishing, and net making.
Key takeaways
- No. 12 tarred nylon cordage
- 1 lb roll (approx. 750 ft)
- Black, tar-impregnated construction
- High resistance to abrasion and UV
- Designed for wet and harsh conditions
- Excellent abrasion resistance due to tarred nylon construction
Intended uses
- Survival kits
- Camp lashing
- Shelter building
- Gear repair
- Fishing lines
Verification notes
Evidence: expert reviewed. Last verified July 15, 2026.
Editorial take
Pathfinder's No. 12 Bank Line is a staple for anyone who spends serious time in the backcountry, especially when self-reliance is key. This isn't your average utility twine; it's a robust, tarred nylon cord built for hard use. The tar impregnation does two critical things: it significantly increases abrasion resistance, which is vital when rubbing against bark or rocks, and it adds a degree of water resistance, preventing mildew and maintaining strength even when wet. It handles well in cold conditions too, not becoming overly stiff. The 1 lb roll offers a substantial amount of line, ensuring you won't run short on longer trips or during extensive projects. Its dark color also helps it blend into natural surroundings, which can be a small but appreciated detail for certain applications.
While branded for 'bank line,' suggesting fishing or net making, its utility extends far beyond. We've used it for everything from Ridgeline setups and securing shelters in high winds to emergency gear repairs, lashing frameworks, and even improvised snares. The No. 12 size hits a sweet spot, providing good strength without being excessively bulky or heavy for its performance. It's strong enough for most camp tasks, yet fine enough to be manageable for detailed work. Compared to paracord, it often offers a more compact and less stretchy alternative for static loads, though it lacks the inner strands for further division. Its resistance to UV degradation, thanks to the tar, also means it holds up better long-term under sun exposure than many other cordage options.
This bank line earns its place in a well-stocked pack or wilderness kit. It’s a workhorse material, not a specialty item, designed to be reliable when other options fail or aren't available. For the price, the amount and quality of cordage you get are excellent. It's a fundamental piece of gear for anyone needing durable, versatile lashing or utility cord that can withstand the elements and rugged treatment. Don't expect it to be flashy; expect it to perform consistently when you need it most.
Best for
- Survival kits
- Camp lashing
- Shelter building
- Gear repair
- Fishing lines
Not ideal for
- Tar coating can leave residue on hands and other gear
- Dark color may be harder to locate in low light
- Not suitable for climbing or high-impact dynamic loads
Verified specifications
- Country of manufacture
- 🏳️ Unknown
- Key features
- No. 12 tarred nylon cordage
- 1 lb roll (approx. 750 ft)
- Black, tar-impregnated construction
- High resistance to abrasion and UV
- Designed for wet and harsh conditions
Warranty and repair information: contact Pathfinder directly for the most current terms. Pathfinder support
Related
Related skills
Related field guides
Related adventures
Data sources & verification
- Source: Curated Alone expansion
- Manufacturer: Pathfinder
- Last verified: 7/15/2026


