In the traditional sense, you're correct. I've heard that they were often used by US Army Rangers for holding gear together, etc. If you haven't already, check out:<br>http://www.therangerdigest.com/Tips___Tricks/RANGER_BANDS/ranger_bands.html<br><br>Apparently some companies now are marketing large, heavy-duty rubber bands as "ranger bands", now. I'll stick to the free version myself.<br><br>I've started making a few this past week. I got 2 popped bike inner tubes from a local bike shop for no charge. One is about 3/4" in diameter, and the other is about 1 1/4 in diameter. I'm still looking for something a little larger, maybe 1 1/2 - 2 inches. Beggars can't be choosy, though, right?<br><br>Haven't nailed down "tons" of uses for them, yet, but will be finding some soon, I'm sure.