Pace counters or ranger beads are counting tools used to keep track of distance traveled through a pace count. Made of 13 beads on a length of cord that are divided into two sections, separated by a knot. 9 beads are used in the lower section, and 4 beads are used in the upper section. Was originally developed by our military. There are two ways to use the beads. One represents the paces you have walked, while the other is the distance walked. Getting your pace count: Measure out 100 meters Walk the entire 100 meters while counting every time your left foot touches the ground Use your typical stride and pace or your later count will be off Using the Beads. Each of the bottom beads equals 100 meters traveled Each of the top beads represents a kilometer traveled While using your pace count, every time you have traveled 100 meters, slide one bead from the bottom section down Once you have used all 9 beads from the bottom section, you will then slide one of the top 4 down after you have traveled another 100 meters. This means you have traveled 1 kilometer. While designed/developed as a pace counter bead set, these beads are also used in other applications requiring the need to count and maintain that count. For example, Golfers use similar applications to keep track of their stroke count during a game, eliminating the required pencil and pad method, Soccer coaches use a similar application to keep track of penalties, other sports and activities use them for their own specific counting needs. We have customized counter beads for specific counting activities, such as having 7 beads on top and 7 on bottom, having 3 sections of beads, and many more. We will be happy to customize a counter bead for your specific application if 9 and 4 are not what you need. All custom requests will be listed for you to purchase through Amazon. To contact us through the Amazon messages, Click on our name VeXra and Click "Contact Seller" under "Further Information" on the right side of page