DIY Knife lanyard

Published on March 22, 2026
Duration: 14:56

This tutorial from Appalachian Smokewagon demonstrates how to tie a basic paracord knife lanyard, focusing on the cobra knot technique. The presenter, an experienced hobbyist, shows how to attach the lanyard to various knives, including Spyderco and Benchmade models, and discusses the utility of lanyards for quick knife access. The guide covers material preparation, knot tying, adding beads, and finishing the lanyard with a lighter for a clean seal.

Quick Summary

Learn to tie a functional knife lanyard using the cobra knot with 550 paracord. This DIY technique involves securing the knife with a clamp, threading the paracord, and tying repeating knots. Finish by melting the ends with a Bic lighter to prevent fraying, enhancing knife accessibility for EDC.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Lanyard Purpose
  2. 00:29Lanyard Examples on Knives
  3. 01:34Spyderco Knife Models
  4. 02:12Required Tools and Materials
  5. 03:03Introducing the Spyderco Retract
  6. 04:06Setup and Channel Promotion
  7. 05:31Tying the Cobra Knot Lanyard
  8. 07:38Adding Beads and Paracord Bracelets
  9. 09:55Finishing the Lanyard
  10. 11:24Knife Steel and Sharpening Discussion
  11. 14:24Conclusion and Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

What materials are needed to tie a knife lanyard?

You will need 550 paracord, a Bic lighter for sealing the ends, and a clamp to hold the knife steady. The knife itself should have a lanyard hole.

How do you tie a cobra knot for a knife lanyard?

Start by centering the paracord through the lanyard hole. Use one side to form a loop over the standing part, then bring the other side under and through that loop, tightening to form the knot. Repeat for desired length.

What is the purpose of a knife lanyard?

A knife lanyard primarily aids in quick access, allowing you to easily pull your knife from a pocket, especially when using deep carry clips. It can also serve as a decorative element.

What kind of knife is used in the tutorial?

The tutorial uses a Spyderco Retract, which features a Kukri-style blade made from 9Cr18MoV steel and a liner lock. Other knives like the Spyderco Manix 2 and Benchmade Griptilian are also shown with lanyards.

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