Bungee cords
This may seem like a stupid question but are bungee cords sold as the stretched length or relaxed length. @ is a 36" bungee cord 36" long relaxed or stretched and if relaxed about how long would it be stretched?
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9 Replies
- Lowe's and probably Home Depot sell packages of bungee cords in assorted lengths.
- I agree with most of what is said above. I have found if you buy your bungees at a truck stop, you will get good quality. Some bungees will not take the sun for a very long period of time. They rot and fail just when you need them.
- The length is relaxed but be very careful of them. A friend of mine lost an eye with one. When they come loose it will pop you in the face with a tremendous amount of force.
- In California, the Division of Measurement Standards, Quantity Control Program Manual, states Bungee Cords are measured without tension from the top of one hook to the top of the other hook, complete with an illustration. There is no standard for the stretched length; you are on your own there. I know this because I am the retired Government Nit-Picker who wrote the procedure. Flame Away - LOL
- Hi,
They are sold relaxed length. Mostly you would be lucky to stretch 50% additional length.
A friend of a friend lost an eye to one, so be careful. - An 18" bungee cord is 18" long before you stretch it.
I have used various bungee cords through the years for work and home. The best I have found is a brand called "The Perfect Bungee". They're not cheap, but they last and the hooks are not metal, so they do not scratch. I haven't had one break on me yet and the hooks keep their shape forever.
Bruce - Relaxed and a word of warning:
Keep your head out of the line of fire if you are pulling it tight.
They can be very dangerous if they break.
Jack L - Sold as relaxed length...they stretch 2-3 times their relaxed length.
(I think...)
