ANIMAL REPELLENTS – DETONATION CORDS

What exactly is a detonation cord? How do you use it, and why are some nearly twice the price of others? Let’s break it down.

If you’ve ever wondered what a detonation cord is and what it’s used for, you’re likely among the lucky few who’ve never had to use one.

A detonation cord—also called a “huker”—is one of the most effective ways to protect crops from wild animals. Although most commonly used by farmers in fields, it’s also widely applied in orchards and fish farms.

How Does a Detonation Cord Work?

A detonation cord is made of a braided cotton rope with firecracker charges attached at intervals. At the end of the cord, there’s a wire hook for easy hanging.

At first glance, a huker might seem like just a string of firecrackers. So why not just buy separate petards instead of paying more for the cord? The answer lies in how the cord is designed to work.

Once you light the cotton end of the cord, it begins to burn slowly—typically for 6 to 8 hours, depending on the type (click here to see options). As it burns, the firecrackers are ignited at irregular intervals.

The use of special cotton or jute braiding ensures the cord doesn’t fray or lose any firecrackers during ignition. This maintains a consistent timing for each detonation and prevents the cord from extinguishing prematurely.

How to Properly Use a Detonation Cord

For optimal results, always follow the instructions included in the box. Here are the key safety tips:

• Firecrackers explode on the ground. That means the area under the hanging cord must be clear of anything flammable.

• Never lay the cord on the ground. It must hang freely and not touch any surface. If it lies flat, it may go out.

• Light the bottom end of the cord after removing any plastic tip. It doesn’t matter what you use to light it—but be patient. Proper ignition can take 30 to 120 seconds. You’ll know it’s lit when the tip is glowing bright red.

• Use protective tubing during extreme weather (heavy rain, strong winds) to ensure the cord stays lit.

• The bangs are loud. Stay clear of the cord once it’s lit.

Why Do Detonation Cords Vary in Price?

You might notice some cords cost nearly twice as much as others. Here's why:

1. Burn Time

One of the main factors is how long the cord stays active. Some cords burn for as little as 4 hours, while others last 6 or even 7+ hours.

2. Number of Firecrackers

A longer burn time doesn’t always mean more explosions. Longer cords may have fewer firecrackers, spaced farther apart. The best-quality cords offer both long duration and a high number of detonations.

3. Explosion Strength

Cords vary in firecracker power. If you're in a residential area, or just trying to prevent—not scare away—animals, go for a lower-decibel cord. But if you’re dealing with aggressive wildlife destroying your crops, choose the loudest huker available for maximum deterrence.

4. Country of Origin

Another factor is where the cord is made. We currently offer cords manufactured in China, the Czech Republic, and Poland.

Whether you’re a farmer, orchardist, or pond owner—detonation cords are a proven, low-maintenance tool for protecting your property. Just be sure to use them safely, and you’ll enjoy peace of mind all season long.