Macskydiver 0 #1 February 21, 2007 Here's a dumb question that should stir up some interesting conversation. Even wuffos know what a ripcord is; so why do we call it a ripcord? A: Because you will "Rest In Peace" if you don't pull it or, them. (before AADs) B: Because the container appears to rip or, tear open when seen from above when it's pulled. C: Because you have to rip the cord out of the housing to activate it. Those are my guesses, I don't know if they are right. They are all true. Things that make ya go "humm".. I got too much time on my hands. Have fun with it. I wonder if anyone knows the real answer, if they do, they might be too old to jump ha ha. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
howardwhite 6 #2 February 21, 2007 Quote Even wuffos know what a ripcord is; so why do we call it a ripcord? Mr. Trivia here to the rescue. The B.P. (before parachutes) definition of ripcord is the cord you pull to open a hole in the gasbag of a balloon, causing it to descend. I guess when it came time to name that thing you pull to save your life, well, there was this word lying around... HW Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
NickDG 23 #3 February 21, 2007 That handle on a balloon is still called a "rip cord" and in fact the apex of the balloon it rips out (to let the hot air escape) is called the "parachute." NickD BASE 194 Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Macskydiver 0 #4 February 21, 2007 Thank You for responding! I didn't know that and I'm in Albuquerque New Mexico, the ballooning capitol of the world! I figured there had to be another answer other than my guesses; now we know... That's what this forum is all about. Thanks for ejumacating me! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
