Lanyard suggestions

[idleprocess]

I work in a 24/7 secured facility where I need to present my ID badge at all times. Rather that wait for the day that a mini-retractor falls off my belt without noticing it, I've improvised a method of carrying my ID on a bead chain with a miniature retractor, but I don't care for the bead chain.

I'd like a lanyard such as this one, but I'm not prepared to order $300 worth just to get one lanyard (although the thought of abusing their samples policy has crossed my mind).

I've looked around the web for something similar in single-piece quanties and just can't locate anything.

Anyone know where I can find a lanyard with the following?
<ul type="square">[*]Flat cord
[*]Integrated retractor
OR
[*]A flat loop (similar to previous example) to accept a retractor and keep it horizontal.
[*]At least 36" overall length
[*]A safety breakaway would be nice, but isn't essential
[/list]
Thanks for any suggestions!

 

[kitelights]

Convert what you have with paracord. I'm guessing that your objection to the chain is how it feels on your neck. You can cover the chain with the paracord sheath or replace it.

To replace it, remove the innards from paracord of your choice. Iron it to make it flat. Cut the chain leaving at least 2-3 inches on each side. Insert the chain into the paracord and heat it to melt it. If you want it stronger, wrap a spot with nylon or poly thread.

 

[greenLED]

I saw some retractable ID holders the other day at Staples.

 

[gregw45]

Paracord works for my building ID. Looped around my belt - ID kept in pocket.

 

[idleprocess]

I can buy retractable ID holders anywhere, and paracord is easy enough to locate; I was wondering if anyone had a source on ID lanyards with either an integrated rectractor, or a "flat" horizontally-oriented eyelet at the end to gracefully accomodate a retractor.

I'm tall - around 6'5" - and the transceivers for the RFID keys are too low to gracefully reach with my ID unless I bend over akwardly or use a lanyard so long that the ID hangs out at waist level.

I don't really like the bead chain on my neck, and it also looks... chintzy.

Maybe I'll just improvise something with paracord and some existing hardware. It's allright if the lanyard snaps under strain - I'd rather replace a lanyard or ID than choke myself or try to pull my head off...

 

[Joe Talmadge]

Since it's falling off your belt that you're worried about, have you considered a Hammerhead leash? http://www.tadgear.com/x-treme%20gear/hammer_head_gear_keepers.htm

For the low-force version, you can get a clip, or you can get a velcro strap. Wrap the strap around your belt, and there's no way it'll come off. IMO, wearing your retractor on your belt looks a little less doofy than wearing it around your neck, and the Hammerhead will be as secure as you need.

 

[idleprocess]

Hm. Good idea. The metal clip looks beefy enough to stay in place, unlike the short clip on a standard retractor that's unlikely to make it all the way around even a skinny belt.

 

[Unicorn]

I hate those small retractors. I've had too many have the strings break on me, and co-workers. Those Hammerhead retractors are nice because of the steel cable instead of string. Some places require the id badges to be worn abvoe the waist level, and that pretty much means around the neck or clipped to a shirt. I also don't like them bouncing around my neck.
Oh, one small bit of advice. Put the plastic strap of hte retractor through the badge itself as well as the clear holder. The holder will tear from use, and you might lose your badge that way without noticing it.

 

[Joe Talmadge]

Unicorn, a while back I found a retractor in the fishing section that was constructed of a metal (not plastic) casing and used steel (not cotton) thread, but still had the small form-factor of those standard plastic retractors. I thought that would be the best answer, but alas, the damn thing fell apart on me! Don't remember what happened, exactly. Ultimately, while that product was disappointing, it represented what I really want: small form factor, metal cable, but overall built tough enough so that everything else is as tough as the cable.

The Hammerheads are the next best thing: very tough, but double the size of those small retractors.