Welcome Preppers and Survivalists,
 |
| U.S. Army soldier examines the contents of a storage box inside an abandoned storage unit (ca 2008)
photograph by
Pfc. Sarah De Boise
|
I have been working; early August, 2016; trying to clean up the poor, neglected blog, Getting Started in Emergency Preparedness. For too long, I have dealt with other issues.
No more
Of course, all actions have consequences, so I may have accidentally 'killed' the blog. It seems, as of this writing, the search for "Getting Started in Emergency Preparedness" no longer shows the blog, on the first page. Much less the tenth page.
So, ... I need you help, getting GSiEP on the search engines first page. I don't know how to do this, so it's up to you, the reader.
With that said, ... Here are the archives for 2012's Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff posts
1 January 2012
Happy New Year
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
Needless to say, most of us have or will be making New Year's resolutions, this year. Some will try to lose weight or exercise more. Others will try to become more financially secure while others will try to be better prepared, for life's emergencies.
Most of us will fail, and there is a simple reason for that.
We are really trying to change our life.
Think about it.
Let's say you want to reduce your weight by 20ish pounds (10 kilograms). That extra weight didn't magically appear. You put on that weight by having certain habits, not exercising, eating an extra snack, or not getting rid of your stress.
So,
You are going to have to change your habits.
But, it is difficult. You have had these habits for a year or more, maybe decades.
So, here's some advice.
First, change only one thing/habit for a month.
Let's stay with getting fit, for the example. Instead of starting to walk, lift weights, reduce your food intact (diet), sleep longer, drink more water, and ... , starting today!!! Pick one of these and do that habit for a month. After you and your family have done that habit for those thirty days; move on to the next one. After thirty days doing those two habits; move one to the next one, then the next one, then the next one, and so on.
By the end of the year, you will have 12 new healthy habits that hopefully will have you accomplishing your goals.
To be truthful, these are not my ideas. The late Mary Kay Ash, founder of Mary Kay, Inc, and the many independent beauty consultants use this (change one habit/one thought for thirty days) to change their businesses.
Next, break it down and write it down.
For this advice to work, you will need to break down your goal to smaller intermediate goals then write those goals on a sheet of paper.
Let's change the goal to being more financially secure.
Being financially secure is a big goal, so we need to break it down.
Financially secure
* Pay off credit cards
*** send an extra $50 to each credit card, every week
* 3 to 6 months of cash in the bank
*** put $100 a month in a savings account in a local credit union insured by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund
* Retirement
*** contribute 10 - 15% of income to retirement fund/savings
and
*** contribute enough to get 100% match from your employer
or
*** start an IRA and contribute 100%
Then write all this stuff down, hang it in a place you will see everyday, then do it.
Lastly, tell people or yourself
Tell your friends and family about your goals, so they can ask you how's it going. This will help you stay on track by being guilted into keeping your goals by your friends and family asking all those questions.
Needless to say, if you are implementing a goal that will need OPSEC, like increasing the amount of food and ammunition you and your family have, you can write yourself a couple of letters. The letters will be mailed, by you or your partner, every three months to remind you about that goal you want to accomplish.
There you have it folks. Three methods to help you achieve your goals this new year.
Yeah, yeah, yeah, you know. Make sure to read the links for more information about achieving your new year's resolutions.
Link:
United States of America - Popular New Year's Resolutions
http://www.usa.gov/Citizen/Topics/New-Years-Resolutions.shtml
Oprah - A Special Note for Credit Union Customers
http://www.oprah.com/money/Credit-Union-Insurance
Dumb Little Man - 7 Common Reasons People Fail To Achieve New Year Resolutions
http://www.dumblittleman.com/2008/01/fail-to-achieve-new-year-resolutions.html
Poker News - How to Achieve Your New Year’s Resolution
http://www.pokernews.com/news/2011/12/how-to-achieve-your-new-years-resolution-11706.htm
Healthy Tipping Point - How to Set (and Actually Achieve) New Year’s Resolutions
http://www.healthytippingpoint.com/2011/01/how-to-set-and-actually-achieve-new-years-resolutions.html
6 January, 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff, ... Prepping isn't Consumerism
Welcome Preppers and Survivalists,
For you folks that have been reading the blog for a little while, you know that I link to James Dakin, at Bison Survival Blog, regularly. There's a reason for this. He believes that you and your family should buy the basics (bolt-action rifle, feed-grain wheat, basic grinder, and junk land with a travel trailer) and be done with it. He's right because prepping isn't about consumerism.
Let me explain.
Many years ago, I read a science-fiction story about this guy; who had been conditioned to buy and collect figurines (say plastic frogs). To overcome this addiction, he was reconditioned to buy ceramic cats. Nothing changed, just the type of junk he bought.
Survivalism isn't about collecting survival gear. It's about getting prepared for emergencies.
If you get it, go read the archives. If you don't, let me explain.
For protection.
When you buy a basic rifle like the SKS, all you need is a sling, ammo, surplus ammo carrier, and stripper clips. You don't need to buy a single-point sling, close quarter battle (CQB) scope, electronic range finder, and all that gobbly gook that others would have you buy.
 |
| Yugoslavian SKS by Thomas Powell |
Same for shelter.
If you buy a few blue waterproof tarps and some rope that will fit through the tarp's grommets (eyelets), you and your family have the beginnings for a basic shelter. You don't need a $100 ultra lightweight backpacking shelter for each family member.
 |
| Residents use Blue Tarps for Shelter by Patsy Lynch/FEMA |
This goes for water, too.
Do you really need four brand new 55-gallon drums for water? At $135 a barrel? No, you and your family need to collect 1 and 2 liter soda bottles, clean them, fill with city tap water, then add 5 drops of unscented chlorine bleach to the water.
 |
| Omum Water Bottle by த*உழவன் |
Lastly, food
Freeze-dried food for a one-person year supply will set you back $750, $1,000, maybe $1,500. Is it food that you have eaten? Do you even like split pea soup?
For the same amount of money, possibly, your family can buy long-term food storage such as rice, dried beans, wheat, and extra canned, bottled, and boxed food that you normally eat then add a couple bottles of multivitamins, and your whole family may eat healthy for a year. (or the amount of time your prepping for)
In conclusion, prepping isn't a fashion show. Neither is it a race to see who survives with the most toys.
13 January, 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff, ... Living in Two Worlds
Welcome Preppers and Survivalists,
Preppers live in two worlds.
The first is the one we see around us everyday. Families shopping together at the grocery stores; partners driving to the movie theatre ; the manicured lawns of our neighborhoods, and ... The second world is the one preppers only seem to see. Hunger in our streets; lawlessness in our towns; and the financial difficulties in our national and international banking systems; and ...
For most new preppers living in both worlds can be difficult because we unrealistically try to live in both worlds. So, what's a prepper to do?
Let me offer some advice.
Financial
First, all of us (prepper and non-prepper) should have a 3 to 6 month emergency fund. One of the easiest ways of doing that is to "pay yourself, first." A non-prepper will have that money deposited in one of the big banks. A prepper will have half of their emergency fund deposited in a local/regional credit union or bank (not a 'big' bank), and the other half that money will be in a safe or under their mattress, at home ; - )
Credit should be wisely used, not abused, by both the non-prepper and prepper. The non-prepper will be maxed out; the house, multiple vehicles, and all the toys, plus the average $16.000 credit cards debit. For the prepper, only a home with a large lot will be financed, possibly a popular car, too. (Note: 1) All other credit will be avoided, but a prepper will have a couple of credit cards, issued by a local bank or credit union. These credit cards may be used for unexpected emergencies and travel arrangements, (Note: 2) Plus, a prepper and their family should always live below their means.
Next, preppers and their families should invest in companies that provide a needed service to their region/nation. Electricity, water, food, transportation, and medicine are some of the things a prepping investor might purchase for their portfolio. Any individual stocks should pay a dividend, and the dividend reinvested.
For retirement planning, prepper and non-prepper will max-out their 401K to achieve the maximum match from their employer. Both groups may also invest in an IRA, but there is a difference. The non-prepper will invest (401K and IRA money) in expensive managed mutual funds while a prepper will invest in passively managed index funds, with low fees. Plus, a prepper will hold physical gold and silver. (Note: 3)
Prepper and non-prepper partners may decide to leave their children an inheritance, but the inheritance will be different for these two groups. A non-prepper family will leave their children money; thinking that their children will be able to handle the responsibility. A prepper family will leave their children a trust. The trust will hold a family home with a few acres, so the family may 'come home' during times of trouble. This home and acreage should be paid for and maintained by the family members, together. Plus, prepper partners will leave their children the skills to navigate tough times and good times, too.
Home
A prepper and non-prepper have similar desires for their home. They want the home to look nice, keep them warm in winter/cool in summer, and be a home for their family, but there is a difference.
A prepper and her/his partner, even living in a cookie cutter subdivision (most of us still do) will improve their home. They will weather strip and insulate their home, install security lights, and make other improvements that will improve the family's ability to survive in their home during a disaster.
Non-preppers will have a manicured lawn with a flower garden in the front yard. The prepper's family would have torn up as much grass as possible to plant a vegetable garden, fruit trees, and a herb garden.
The prepper family will start a neighborhood watch group and get to know their neighbors.
Shelter, Water, Food, and Protection
This article could go on, and on, and on, but I have to stop. (Note: 4)
A Changing Lifestyle
By now, you and your partner are looking at each other say 'No way can we do all these things, right now.' and you're right.
This is a lifestyle change. Steadily, you and your family make the transition from a non-prepper family to a prepper family. You stop living in both worlds and start to live in the world that better reflect your desire to survive and thrive during difficult times.
In other words, ...
Discard the normal life for the prepper life.
Note: 1
By popular car, I mean a vehicle that seems to be everywhere.
Let me give you an example. My mother-in-law always drove Volvo station wagons (expensive to buy and expensive to maintain and repair). When her mechanic retired, there was no one to fix her car, so we bought her a 2006 Ford station wagon. Parts and mechanics are everywhere for this car. Plus, she doesn't standout as a 'rich' person, anymore.
Yes, we financed the car : - (
Note: 2
There are a few people that will disagreed about the use of a credit card. Some will say to use a credit card all the time, especially, if the card pays you a cash reward. I don't disagreed, but remember ...
It's Your Life; You're Responsible for It
Note: 3
"Physical" gold and silver is gold and silver coins, bars, or bullion that you can hold in your hand. It is hidden in your home, business, or buried in your backyard.
Note: 4
Read the archives.
Link:
US News: Money - Suze Orman: Why the Recession Is a Good Thing
http://money.usnews.com/money/personal-finance/articles/2009/06/23/suze-orman-why-the-recession-is-a-good-thing
20 January, 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff, ... Two is 1, and 1 is None
Welcome Preppers and Survivalists,
A couple of years ago, a simple saying started popping up amongst preppers and survivalists.
Two is One, and One is None
On the surface, it's a simple and elegant saying that means if you have two of an item, you should consider it as only having one of those items. If you have only one of an item, you should consider that you 'really' have none of that item.
But,
It's deceptive because the saying will cause you to spend more on prepping and survival then you really need.
Let me explain.
If you're the typical family, you have a partner and 2 or 3 children, say 5 people. How many guns do you need? If you use "2 is 1, and 1 is none" mentality you'll need 10 handguns, 10 rifles, and 2 rounds of ammo for each of the firearms ; - )
Not really, on the ammo, but you get my point. You really need 5 handguns and some spare parts, same for the rifles. Ammunition wise, you will need 500 to 1500 rounds of pistol/revolver ammo and 1000 to 1500 of rifle ammo, total.
Next, have you ever seen a worn out hatchet or axe? How about a worn out hammer or sledge hammer? I haven't, but I have seen broken axe and sledge hammer handles.
Lastly, to drive my point home, do you need two tents, per person? two sleeping bags? two pocket knives, two signal mirrors, two ... You get the point.
Make sure that you and your family 'think' about what you need, not 'want' like some mindless consumer.
Yeah, yeah, yeah, I know. There are going to be many things that you want to have two methods of doing, like starting a fire, filtering water, making a shelter, treating an injury, and ...
But,
These are methods (knowledge) of doing something.
That's different.
27 January, 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff, ... Coming Soon
Welcome Preppers and Survivalists,
Have you noticed?
The big economic disaster everyone has been predicting isn't happening. Stock markets are up, all around the world. Housing prices are rebounding, and unemployment has dropped to 8.5%.
Did you also noticed?
Y2K didn't happen. The bird flu pandemic didn't happen, and global warming didn't happen. (OK, that one's a stretch)
Did you also notice?
No zombies!
But, but, but!!! as you point out. There's still people on TV and the internet warning that the collapse of the world economy is going to happen this year. Others are warning about the flu, and some others are still talking about the state and federal government turning against us. Terrible times, ahead.
So, what is a prepper to believe?
First, take a couple of deep breaths..., Relax.
Feel better? Good.
Next, I want you to remember. People are trying to sell you something, a product, an idea, or advertising time. These people want you to feel bad because you and I will try our best to get rid of that feeling. With citizens of these United States, normally, we will try and buy our way out of these feelings of panic.
Don't believe me. Critically look at the commercials on our national news programs and the print media we read everyday. Most of them are about making us 'feel' better about ourselves, our families, or our things.
And,
Don't get me started about the advertisements you and your family will see/hear on Glenn Beck, Laura Ingraham, and the 'survival' magazines. Enough said.
Now, that you're calmed down, I want you and your family to update your threat analysis. Look at the potential disasters, short and long-term, that you and your family will face, write 'em down, and don't forget to prioritize the new disasters.
After you've looked at all the disasters your family is facing, I want you to realize that most of these disasters have common solutions, shelter, water, food, medical supplies, protection, and ...
Next, you need to take an inventory of all the things you own. Yes, write it down, so you won't forget.
Lastly, you make a list of the supplies and things you and your family will need to survive, compare it against you family's inventory, and start making those purchases.
But, but, but!!! When is "it" all going to end? When is the big financial collapse going to happen? How much time do we have!!!
I don't know; neither does anyone else.
The collapse could be happening as I write this or it could never happen.
And that's a problem because you and your family don't know how important it is for y'all to get your stuff in order. Do you get the freeze-dried food or animal feed? Two SKS rifles or wait and get the AR-15 rifle?
My take. More likely then not, you and your family have a little more time to prepare for the coming disasters, but don't procrastinate. Folks are still worried, and you should be too.
Note:
You will notice that I didn't mention survivalists in this article because ...
Survivalists know, to the core of their being, that they and their families could be crossing a deserted street and the semi-truck of destiny would still run them down.
So, they plan accordingly because survivalists and their families understanding that they were given a little more time to prepare, last year.
3 February 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff
Welcome Preppers and Survivalists,
Sorry folks, I don't have anything to say this Friday. Plus, I have been working on a couple of articles, with pictures.
Here's some of their titles
Firearms for Preppers, ... Bolt Action Rifles - 11 Feb 2012
Firearms for Preppers, ... Semi-Auto Rifles - 18 Feb 2012
Firearms for Preppers, ... Pro/Cons Rifles - unk
Firearms for Preppers, ... Handguns - unk
Cooking During a Disaster, Part One - unk
Thanks for understanding. SYK
2 March 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
Jungle G and I were talking a couple of days ago about last minute preps, and Jungle G said something I would like to share with you.
"No Matter What, Don't Go to the Grocery Store!"
Now, most people would say that's wrong because they need last minute stuff during a disaster. They'd give an excuse like ... We need bread, eggs, and milk, (the "French Toast Phenomenon") or I want to get rid of my last bit of cash before it becomes worthless and so on.
But,
There is the possibility of a lot of chaos at the grocery store. Folks will be rushing in and out of the store trying to secure food for their family, at the last minute. Some folks may turn to crime, maybe even taking your food as you come out of the store.
High Oil Prices
Folks, my family and I are seeing higher and higher fuel prices in our area.
Guess what?
Prices are going to go up on stuff like soap, shampoo, dish washing detergent, and other petrochemical based products like plastics (food storage buckets, water storage jugs, and storage totes, to name a few)
Who Gets Your Children?
One of our friends, that we play cards with, was talking about long-term food storage, the other day. She said she was thinking about "Who would inherit her 25-year self-life freeze-dried food?" during a presentation at her church.
And, that got me to thinking.
First, my wife and family would get it all. The water filters, the food, the tent, sleeping bags, firearms and ...
But, then I thought.
What happens, if my wife and I go at the same time?
Who gets the children? With guns, water filter, sleeping bag, and ...?
My wife and I will need to think on that one.
9 March 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
Money
Jungle G and a couple of other folks were talking at work about prices going up. It seems the cost of fuel, food, and other nessecities has increases, a lot.
Well, Jungle G made a comment; you have probably thought yourself or have heard many times, if you hangout with preppers and survivalists.
"Prices aren't going up; money is becoming worth-less"
By the way, I wrote this a couple of days ago, and prices have gone up, again.
Mistakes
Hopefully, everyone reading has an emergency kit in their vehicle, car, truck, or van for life's little emergencies and some of the big ones, too.
We do, except for our truck.
Big mistake. Yes, no, and maybe.
See, I don't make a lot of money, and I don't drive the truck a lot. So it's hard to justify the added expense of maintaining an emergency kit in the truck. Plus, I have a backpack that I transfer between my car and the truck, almost all the time : - (
The backpack holds two water bottles, a nylon rain jacket and pants, some first-aid supplies, and some cold weather gear (snivel gear) like a set of polypro long johns, wool watch cap, and two pairs of gloves. Plus, the backpack has some food in it that I rotate by adding 'new' food then eating the 'old' food for lunch.
Well, I made the mistake of leaving the backpack in the car, one day. Needless to say, I had a little problem...
We needed to light some charcoal for a going away barbecue.
Yeah, it was a small problem, but what if it was a bigger problem? Like staying warm.
So,
I have been thinking about what I need to do to have an emergency kit in the truck without breaking the bank.
My thoughts so far ...
First, I will look through my stuff and see if I have any older blankets, coats, hats, and mismatched gloves. I don't care if they match or have small holes, except for the gloves; I hate holey gloves.
Next, I'll build a simple first-aid kit. It'll have a couple of band-aids, antibiotic ointment, and other simple stuff. Everything will go into a zip-lock baggie to keep it together and water-proof.
Since I don't have an extra plastic tote, I'll just throw all the stuff in the back of the truck, it's an extended cab, and wait until I can get a tote to hold all the survival gear.
Next, I'll make up a warmth in a can kit (More on that in a later article), clean and fill up a few one-liter soda bottles with water, add a fire kit, get a few granola bars, and ...
Buy a jack, jumper cables, and warning triangles : - (
Yeah, I know. I don't have a jack for the truck, but I have a working cellphone when it's charged up.
23 March 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
First, this blog is my effort to educate friends and family on the basics of preparedness. Once you and your family have shelter, water, food, protection (firearms/ammo), medical, and other basic areas of prepping completed, you need to move along to other pursuits or blogs.
And,
Don't forget to pass the information you learned here to others.
Gas Masks
The Woodsman asked me the other day about purchasing a gas mask (protective mask). For most preppers, I think it's an unnecessary expense, however; some families are going to need protective masks. These families will live near places like industrial sites, railroads, and chemical storage facilities.
 |
| M95 Protective Mask without Filter by FEMA: Responder Knowledge Base |
Did I mention, don't buy surplus protective masks because they're junk.
OK. If you won't listen to me and purchase a surplus mask, you need to buy new-made (manufactured in the last five years) filters. Still no guarantees.
Now, other preppers are going to need a few N95 Particulate Respirator 8670F or N95 Particulate Respirator 8612F from 3M for leaving the house during public health emergencies.
Remember your threat analysis.
For an Ounce of Gold
As I write this, an ounce of gold sells for about $1650.
$1650 will buy you ...
10 cases of wheat (350 pounds)
10 cases of pinto beans (310 pounds)
10 cases of white rice (310 pounds)
365 multivitamins
One SKS rifle
and
1000 rounds of ammo
Needless to say, meals will suck, but you'll be eating for one year.
PS. The food is shipped to your door for that price.
Link:
Latter-day Saints - Online Store
http://store.lds.org
Note: Search for "Wheat, Beans, Rice"
It's Not If; It's When
As a survivalist, sooner or later the financial system will collapse. These United States has borrowed $15,000,000,000,000 from future generations, and we are going to borrow another 1.4 trillion dollars this year, again. If the dollar loses its status as the 'World's Reserve Currency,' the 16 trillion dollar debt will have to be paid back sooner than later.
And,
Global climate change is happening. Colder or hotter, it doesn't matter; it's changing. Sooner or later these global temperature changes will cause crop failures, on land and at sea.
And,
First, these United States fighting in Afghanistan, then Iraq, then back to Afghanistan. Now, US troops in Kenya, Liberia, Morocco, and ... Argentina rattling its saber about the Falklands; Terrorists and drug cartels killing innocent people; and ...
And, (to me)
A libreal, a fascist, and an ayatollah running against a president who wants to control what you do with your money and your body. (as do Romney, Gingrich, and Santorum). No matter who wins; we are screwed, this includes electing Dr. Paul.
Just so you know ...
I've been wrong, many times ; - )
30 March 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
First Things, First
I need to apologize to Riverwalker and an unknown gentlewoman. They had left comments, that I published, then unknowingly deleted.
Please, except my apologizes for deleting your comments. If you would like, please submit them again, and I will post your comments, again.
Have You Heard
Most of us, by now, have heard of Mr. Zimmerman and Mr. Martin's February 26th altercation. If you didn't, just search for "Mr. Zimmerman and Trayvon Martin" in your favorite search engine.
Needless to say, many, many folks have come forward to give their opinion of the altercation.
Me,
Remember the aftermath of the Rodney King trial, in '92.
As Ol' Remus says "Stay away from crowds."
And, if you live in the big city
Make sure you contact friends or family in the country, ahead of time, to make sure you and your family can stay with them if SHTF in your neighborhood.
Wishing for the Collapse
Some people are eagerly awaiting the collapse. They believe that the collapse will be a better place for them and their family. These folks have stored water and food to eat and drink; they have bought firearms and ammunition to defend themselves. They have untold amounts of gold and silver. Just like you and your family.
Folks, the collapse will suck, big time.
Hunger, cold, untreated injuries, humiliation, and death will await you and your family during and after the collapse. Plus, the opportunity to improve your family's situation will be very limited, if you survive.
Don't believe me. Just read some history because you will find after every disaster, big or small, there is a scramble to obtain the things you and your family need to survive.
There will be shortages of housing, food, water, security, and medical care. Travel will be difficult if not impossible. Loved ones will be injured or dead.
Yeah, the collapse will be good-times for all ; - )
Make Sure to Vote
Ol' Remus, every once in a while, will suggest to his readers not to vote. He believes voting does no good. Ol' Remus thinks voting just gives the powers that be increased legitimise to pillage our countries.
I agree, if we continue voting for the incumbent parties. We need to stop voting for labour or conservative, democrat or republican, Christian Democrat or Socialist Democrat, and ...
We need to look at the third parties.
Lastly, if the current elected representative isn't doing what you want, vote for someone else, next election.
Remember, throw the bums out, after every election because sooner or later, they will start listening to us.
Or,
We could riot, overthrow the government, and ... See "Wishing for the Collapse" above.
4 April 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
Making the List
Jungle G has a saying "If you're not on a list, you're not standing up"
Think about that saying for a minute.
Do you use your credit card for purchases? You're on a list, many lists.
Do you have and use an awards card? You're on a list.
Owe someone money? You're on a list.
Have a cellphone, in your name? You're on a list.
Own a house, car, or boat? You're on a list.
Bought a firearm from a FFL dealer? You're on a list when the dealer goes out of business.
Subscribe to Backwoods Home, The Backwoodsman, Mother Earth News, and ... ? You're on a list.
You get the point by now.
They're Watching
The Woodsman's Dad, when Woodsman was young, would take him out to the woods and show him the trees, plants, and animals that lived there. His Dad taught him how to hunt and how to make it in the woods instead of how to play football.
A couple years ago, Woodsman started listening to folks like Glenn Beck, Mark Levin, Michael Savage, Rush Limbaugh, and others : - ( These folks woke him up about the dangers to these United States and the World, so Woodsman started prepping.
At first, Woodsman was worried about the federales, so he concentrated on firearms and ammo. He learned military-type skills.
Then,
He realized it took a lot more to survive. He started storing food by buying extra canned food every shopping trip, using his overtime pay for more food, and controlling food wastage after every meal by taking leftovers to work, for lunch.
But,
Woodsman thought he was strange because none of his friends were prepping. He seemed to be the only one in his family to see the approaching storms.
Then,
His Mom came to him a few months ago and asked him about storing food for a crisis.
So,
Be prepared for this because, no matter how hard you try, folks know you're prepping, especially family.
How do I know this?
Just ask your children; they see everything.
 |
| Me, a prepper? |
Damn!!!
I was planning to add a donate button on Saturday.
Come back on Saturday to find out why I didn't.
13 April 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
Visibility
Depending on the situation, you may or may not want to be seen, take being lost in the woods.
Once you realize that you're lost, Stop! Don't move unless you and your family will be in danger in that spot.
Next, you need to build a shelter and a fire, especially if it's getting dark.
Next, start figuring out ways to be seen by rescuers.
One way of doing that is by building a fire
During the day, you will want your fire to be as smokey as possible, and during the night, you want your fire to be as bright as possible.
Another way of signaling possible rescuers is by flashing them with shiny pieces of metal or mirror
The last method, I'm going to mention is waving bright pieces of cloth, especially if they are large pieces of bright cloth such as hunting or safety vests.
Note:
Since this little blurb is about visibility, I won't mention the two or three methods of getting a rescuer's attention using an audible signal, like blowing a whistle, shooting three time, from a firearm, in a row. I will also not mention that shouting only works for a very short time because your 'voice' starts to wear out.
Link:
NASAR - Hug A Tree and Survive
http://www.nasar.org/page/67/Hug-A-Tree
The Sanders Family - Hug a Tree and Survive
http://www.theozarks.com/HugATree.htm
YouTube: Cryptic Cricket - Signal Mirror Use: How To Do It Right
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6lvMD7u2jOI
5 min.com: Ryanjcus - How to Use a Signal Mirror
http://www.5min.com/Video/How-to-Use-a-Signal-Mirror-166430913
27 April 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
Race War
Some folks are talking about a coming race war. Supposedly, the 'blacks' are going to start shooting 'whites,' burning the cities, and other villainous stuff.
Ho hum. That is so '60s or was that the 70s?
Either way,
If you're worried about that stuff, you need to have a short-term plan of bugging out, and a long-term plan of moving to an area that is 'safe' for you and your family.
Just remember, you will probably need to rethink your job if you work in the big city.
PS.
A 'white' neo-nazi is just as despicable as a 'black' gangster, so make sure you're not jumping from the frying pan into the fire.
Link:
Yer Ol' Woodpile Report - Woodpile Report 265: 24 Apr 2012
http://www.woodpilereport.com/html/index-265.htm
Note: You need to read this today! Ol' Remus doesn't save his thoughts, so it will be gone by Monday. OK. I was wrong; it'll disappear sometime in the near future.
Collapse
She wrote it; you need to read it.
Link:
Association for the Study of Peak Oil and Gas: USA (ASPO-USA) - I. Collapse? Really?
http://www.aspousa.org/index.php/2012/03/i-collapse-really/
28 April 2012
An Unexpected Weekend Off and a Question
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
First, I will be taking the weekend off. I'm mentally and physically pooped.
Next.
Is anyone interested in writing a guest article for GSIEP?
Leave a note in the comments. More about this later.
4 May 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
Employment
Many months ago, actually years, I read an article by James Rawles (Survival Blog) about the 3 Ks. It's a saying, over in Japan, about finding and keeping a job.
For me "Kitanai, Kiken, and Kitsui" translates as Dirty, Dangerous, and/or Degrading. Well, it seems researchers are trying to build robots that will remove those jobs, for humans.
One of my first 'jobs' was picking string beans as a field hand. It was tough work, but it payed good for a 13 year old. As you have probably heard some federal agency is trying to protect children on the farm.
Then yesterday, Charles Smith (Of Two Minds) wrote a article about the future of employment.
Link:
Used Robots.com - Robots Perform the "Three D's"
http://www.used-robots.com/articles.php?tag=2853
Discovery News - Robots on the Farm
http://news.discovery.com/tech/robots-farming-agriculture-110412.html
Of Two Minds - Future Economy, Future Stability, Future Careers
http://www.oftwominds.com/blogmay12/future-careers5-12.html
Update
My focus on firearms is coming to an end. I have one more rifle article for y'all, and I 'might' do two posts on handguns, maybe.
The clean up from the fire is getting ready to start. An estimate has been given to the insurance company for the repairs ($26.000) Contractors have been hired and scheduled, and the police investigation is on-going.
The new chicken coop is being built, with lots of pictures, so you can get some ideas for building your own coop. Yes, I'll have a materiel list with a final price, and I 'might' publish some pictures of the lucky survivors for y'all.
Plus, my partner found this really neat, but expensive, method of growing your own food, if you have terrible soil. She told me about it, so I built her one. ; - )
11 May 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
On Voting
It seems the two major parties, Republicans and Democrats, have selected their presidential candidates. As others have observed, different sides of the same coin.
Now, some folks are suggesting to boycott the election. Some of them feel it's a waste of time. Others think, you and I shouldn't encourage the politicians. Lastly, other folks say the process is rigged, so we shouldn't participate.
Me? I plan to vote for many reasons.
First, the increase in the number of states with concealed carry is because folks that cared voted (wrote letters, called elected officials, fought legal battles, ran for office, and ...) If these folks had stayed at home, we would still have repressive firearm laws.
Next, a lot of folks focus on the presidential election. We need to remember that local, state, and other federal candidates are also seeking election or reelection. Some of these elections will be decided by a couple thousand, a few hundred, a handful, or just one voter.
Third, I believe, we are in trouble. So much trouble that the same old idea of borrow and spend by both parties has stopped working. Again, I believe, we need new ideas to solve our problems, and the only way to do that is to vote for third party candidates.
Lastly, there were 132 million voters, out of 212 million potential voters, in the 2008 election, so my vote counted for almost two votes, last presidential election.
So, make sure you're registered to vote, so you can vote this November.
 |
| A group of African-American children gather around a sign and booth to register voters. by Kheel Center at Cornell University |
On Violence
After a handgun and its supporting equipment and ammunition, a prepper and their family need a rifle. The reason ...
Violence.
It's hard for me to comprehend that someone would be willing to kill you and your family for a few dollars, much less the food and tools needed to survive, but it's true.
There are predators that will be willing to steal from you and your family during a disaster to benefit themselves. What's so bad about it; some of these folks will be from the government.
Some of these government officials will be "following orders." Others will be acting for "the greater good."
So, what's a prepper and their family to do?
I don't know.
But, I do now that you and your family will have to be prepared to defend yourselves. The only way to do that, effectively, is to be armed with firearms that you and your family know how to use.
And,
You will need help because the villains will arrive as groups of two or many dozen, in a uniform or not. They may be scared off with no shots or many.
Sorry for the ambiguity, but I can't see the future that we may face, in the days ahead.
18 May 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
Shelter, Water, Food, Protection, ...
Folk, don't lose focus.
If you are going to lose the house, make sure you have alternate shelter, first.
If you have secured shelter, but don't have water stored, store water first.
If you have shelter and water but no stored food, store food first.
If you have shelter, water, and food, buy protection first.
If you have shelter, water, food, and protection, buy medical supplies first.
After that, it's just arguing about prepping, and that's a waste of time.
Get Out of Dodge bags (GOOD), Bug-Out Bags (BOB), and Get Home Bags (GHB)
Ok. we're going to waste some time.
Some folks 'ill tell ya, you and your family should build a BOB first.
OK. I'm not going to argue.
Because ...
If you think you should build a bug-out bag first then build a bug-out bug, first.
Remember, prepping is all about what you and your family think is going to happen.
So,
Don't argue. Just start prepping.
Update
The chicken coop is coming along fine. We have the four walls raised, thanks neighbors for helping; roof trusses are installed. The coop is wrapped with house wrap, and we should have the siding installed, soon
So,
There is a very short article, on Saturday.
19 May 2012
It's Going to Happen, Tomorrow
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
Folks, I am a science nerd. I love everything science, so I have to tell you about the ...
Annular Eclipse
Thanks to io9 for the heads up about an eclipse; and eclipse we haven't seen for twenty years.
Link:
io9 - Everything you need to know to catch Sunday’s rare "ring of fire" eclipse
http://io9.com/5910156/everything-you-need-to-know-to-catch-sundays-rare-ring-of-fire-eclipse
25 May 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
Scrunchies
Here in these United States, there is a product called "body wash;" it's used to bath. To use body wash, a person takes a scrunchy, a plastic mesh sponge, and adds some body wash then takes a bath or shower. I think most adults shower here.
Needless to say, if you and your family uses body wash, the family really, really needs a scrunchy. Trust me, I have tried using a washcloth; it doesn't work.
As you already know, this blurb isn't about getting clean; it's about stocking the other stuff. The equipment and supplies you and your family need to use the stuff you stockpile, like body wash.
Of course, I'm speaking from experience because our scrunchy 'died,' and we didn't have any in storage. We probably have twenty bottles of body wash but no spare scrunchies.
Soap, Shampoo, and Other Stuff
Do you have a copy of "Nuclear War Survival Skills?" Of course you do because it's one of 'those' books.
Well, in Nuclear War Survival Skills, Cresson Kearny states that soap will disappear after a nuclear attack because the fats used to make soap will be used as food. Because of this, if I remember correctly, Mr. Kearny suggests stockpiling different kinds of soap (Dial, Ivory, dish soap, laundry powder, and ...)
He also says that basic hand washing and washing a cut will reduce the need for professional medical attention. Professional medical care that may be limited or nonexistent after a disaster.
A Canteen Cup, a Bar of Soap, and a Washcloth
In the military, we had a saying: If you can smell yourself, your buddies have been smelling you for three days.
So, the military would run us into the showers every two weeks, if we were in the field.
Of course, every two weeks was 11 days too long, so we learned how to take a cat bath.
First, you need to gather your supplies, a canteen cup, a bar of soap, a washcloth, and some water. Hot to warm water would be nice, but any temperature of water will do.
Next, pour the water into the canteen cup.
Next, drop your pants and shorts, dip the washcloth into the water, lather up the washcloth with soap, and wash your 'pits.' Get 'em clean (crack of your *ss, and between your legs)
Next, rinse out the washcloth in the canteen cup full of water and rinse your pits with the wet washcloth.
Next, pull up your shorts and pants and take off your shirt and t-shirt.
Just like above, wash your pits (arm pits and chest) If you can handle it, wash your face. If you can't, rinse the washcloth out for a third time and wash your face.
Needless to say, make d*mn sure you rinse the washcloth out and rinse your pits. There's nothing more irritating then having dried soap on your body.
Once you're finished, rinse the washcloth one more time and pour out the soapy water.
Oh, I almost forgot. Apply some deodorant and put your t-shirt and shirt back on.
Of course, of course! You noticed.
You should do your face first, your chest and arm pits second, and the crack of your *ss third. Top to bottom.
Ya, you want to clean your canteen cup before you drink from it, or you'll get the runs (diarrhea) from the left over soap in your canteen cup.
28 May 2012
Memorial Day
Welcome Preppers and Survivalists,
Today, these United States remember those killed in service to this country.
Soldiers like Faith R. Hinkley, Kyle C. Gilbert. David E. Hickman, Nathan E. Lillard, Mikayla Bragg, and ...
Marines such as Ramona M. Valdez, Wade D. Wilson, Veashna Muy, John P. Huling, Holly A. Charette, Ralph W. Frietas, and ...
Sailors like Jeffery A. Lucas, Regina R. Clark, James K. Crawford, Lakiba N. Palmer, Ryan J. Wilson, Jorge Luis Velasquez, Lakeina M. Francis, Brian M. Patton, and ...
Airman such as Matthew R. Courtois, Laura A. Lucas, Joseph D. Helton Jr., Elizabeth N. Jacobson, and ...
Link:
Wikipedia - Memorial Day
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Memorial_Day
Military Times - Valor
http://www.militarytimes.com/valor/
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff (June, July, August, and September)
In June, July, August, and part of September, in 2012, I re-posted the "16 Weeks" articles that the book Prepper: Surviving the Tough Times Ahead expanded on.
22 September 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
Update:
Yep, the title for this post should have been "Saturday's Thoughts and Other Stuff." Oh, well; enjoy the post.
Hyperinflation
I was over at TSLRF reading a post by Ryan titled "Putting on my Nostradamos Cap," and he was commenting on the possibility of hyperinflation. (He thinks it won't happen)
Folks, it might or might not happen, but I want you to remember one thing. Hyperinflation is a 'feeling.' People start thinking their money is worthless; they start getting rid of it as fast as possible.
At first, they move their money into 'safe' investments, such as another country's stock market or government bonds. Next, they might buy silver, gold, paintings, land, and other things of 'value.'
Then the fun starts to begin.
Other folks start realizing their money is going to be worth less, so they charge more interest to borrow, or these folks want a higher interest rate on their bonds. Next, because costs have gone up, folks want a higher pay, or they quit buying unimportant stuff.
Prudent folks start stocking up on water, food, firearms, regularly used items (shampoo, soap, feminine hygiene products, socks, shoes, and ...), but prices are going up because folks need more money to pay their employees (remember, the employees have received higher wages), pay their loans (remember, banks are getting a higher interest rate), pay for their raw material (remember, the supplier's costs have gone up, too)
Now, the fun really starts
Now, other folks start getting rid of their cash; buying anything and everything.
Sooner or later, nobody is holding cash because everyone 'thinks' cash is worthless.
Smoking
When I traded jobs, I moved to a town where everybody, at least it seems that way, smokes.
Folks, if you are still smoking, Quit!
Smoking is bad for you, and it wastes money
Just to do some math.
A pack of cigarettes sells for $4.00 a pack. A pack a day costs you and your family $1460 a year.
If you quit smoking that's like a 70¢ an hour pay raise.
$1460 will buy you and your family 48 cases of wheat, from the Latter-day Saints Distribution Center, that's enough wheat for a family of four for a year. Plus, some extra cases just in case ; - )
Or,
If you want a variety of basic long-term food storage, the $1460 will buy you and your family a bunch of wheat, beans, rice, quick oats, probably enough for three months.
Or,
$1460 will buy you and your family two SKS rifles, 2000 rounds, and you'll still have about $200 for some accessories
Or,
Two pistols (a used Glock 9mm), a couple hundred rounds, and you'll still have cash for holsters, for you and your partner.
You get the point because this works for Starbucks, at $1.69 for a small coffee, that's $440 a year.
That's
over 10 cases of wheat, rice, or beans from the Latter-day Saints.
Or,
one SKS rifle or one used pistol in 9mm or .40 cal. and a couple boxes of ammo
You get the point, again.
29 September 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff, on a Saturday
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
Can Openers
When I moved out of town, I want down to our pantry and loaded up about three weeks worth of canned food into a couple paper grocery bags, put 'em in the car, and took the food and a bunch of other stuff down to my home away from home.
I had body wash, shampoo, plates, bowls, and ...
No can opener. : - (
I found out just as I was getting ready to heat up dinner, so I improvised and had something else for dinner. The next day, I headed out of town, to China-Mart, for a can opener.
Needless to say, we all store canned food in our medium and long-term food storage, so a missing or no can opener would be a temporary disaster.
A quick fix would be tipping the can upside down and rubbing the top on a slab of concrete.
Now, some folks have seen WWII movies where soldiers use a knife to open the tinned can. I don't recommend this method. First, you may break the knife's tip, Second, if you slip, you may cut yourself. Lastly, it's going to really tedious, if you have to do this for a bunch of cans.
Note:
I want to the grocery store and purchased 'new' food and replaced the 'old' before I left for out of town.
Investing
A couple of years ago, I head Suze Orman talk. One comment, I remember was about the number of financial books people have on their shelves. She said most broke people have a bunch of financial books.
O.K. That's not going where I want it. Let me start again.
I'm reading a financial book titled The Late Start Investor by John F. Wasik. The book was copyrighted in 1998. It's a little dated in what's going on, but it still has some good advice for the prepper.
The most important idea that I took away from the 226 page book was "advertisers try to make us doubt ourselves."
And,
That includes the survivalist/prepper suppliers. Those folks want you to feel unprepared for the tough times ahead, but you and your family can prepare for most disasters with stuff you already have. You just need to be prepared to improvise.
Dang, that's kind'a going in the wrong direction. Let me try again.
Folks, we may be heading into financial difficulties, but what happens if nothing happens? What are you going to do with those ounces of gold, you're buying, if they lose two thirds of their value, next year? Will you be able to retire?
Folks, I have been prepping for 99 years (OPSEC remember); the collapse of civilization hasn't happen, yet?
But, one thing has.
I'm getting older and closer to slowing down then when I started prepping.
So, you and I need to be planning for retirement, or for me slowing down because I'll never retire.
6 October 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff, on a Saturday
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
Firearms for Preppers
There are two firearms that all preppers need, a handgun and a rifle.
My choice for the rifle, needed by all preppers, is the SKS rifle.
Link:
DystruktoBoi1 - SKS Rifle Overview
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_UQz9bbfGKQ
dwarncke - Hunting and Shooting the SKS Rifle
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kpTikFwKKqQ
The SKS rifle is a semiautomatic rifle with an attached magazine. The rifle requires very little additional equipment to be useful for the prepper, but it requires certain skills. One of those skills is the ability to disassemble and assemble the rifle.
Link:
Lookinformemarbles - Norinco SKS Type 56 Carbin Disassemble And Reassemble
www.youtube.com/watch?v=BovEZppkFuc
MrTotez - How to disassemble an SKS rifle
www.youtube.com/watch?v=JncvhTcu_Kg
vademtiraspol - YUGO SKS M5966 Field Strip
www.youtube.com/watch?v=zCpT5xtt7eQ
The SKS rifle has a free floating firing pin. The firing pin can become dirty enough to cause a slam fire. There are a couple of ways to prevent a slam fire. The most inexpensive method is to clean your rifle. The next method is to install a firing pin with a spring; it will cost about $40.
Link:
TheSavageKnife - The Cure to The SKS Slam Fire: Clean your bolt properly
www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZTfdB_BHRK0
MrTotez - Murray's firing pin installation for the SKS rifle
www.youtube.com/watch?v=M2jCxPoNVxI
Murraysguns - SKS slam fire + the cure
www.youtube.com/watch?v=xj3QtnUWCwQ
Once you and your family have learned how to disassemble, clean, assemble, and function check the rifle. You need to learn how to load the rifle with and without stripper clips
Link:
lugnutsdemo - How to safely load your sks without a stripper clip
www.youtube.com/watch?v=4i6LmoW1E_o
venturahwy76 - Loading My M59 SKS From Stripper Clips With M67 Yugo Ball Ammo 7.62x39 The Best SKS Stripper Clips
www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxnsFMf3P_M
gamerkid1177 - How to load a SKS with a stripper clip EASY
www.youtube.com/watch?v=_KKkBMzzplo
Another skill you and your family need to learn is immediate action drills. These drills you need to practice, practice, and practice some more.
Link:
millerusaf - SKS Malfunction Drill
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qzZTp61pgPU
1 comment:
joe said... I just ran across your site. Thanks for the posts. S.Q. Whrill
12 October 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
The Importance of Entertainment
Many years ago, I was in an accident, a serious accident. To help me recover, the doctors prescribed some awesome painkillers. These drugs took away my ability to concentrate; I couldn't read more than a paragraph, carry on an intelligent conversion, or answer the newspaper's crossword puzzle. Just so you know, I couldn't even follow the soap operas.
In other words, I was bored, so I had to find some other enjoyable entertainment. I finally found it in reading comic books.
My temporary relocation has presented similar problems. I have left friends and family behind, and I am bored, again. Plus, I am trying to leave as much stuff back at home.
Because,
'If' I have to evacuate (bug-out), I will leave a minimum of 'important' stuff like a bed, bedding, clothes, electronics, books, and ... Plus, I'm trying to be very frugal. In other words, I have few distractions.
So, what does this have to do with prepping?
During certain disasters, we (you and your family) may have excess time on our hands.
Take a power outage.
Televisions, game consoles, and the internet will be inoperative. What will your family do?
Play board and card games, read age appropriate books and magazines, and other low energy activities.
Needless to say, you and your family are going to have to practice these habits because you, your partner, and your children are going to need to find games that interest your family. Same for books. If the children like science fiction, you and them need to stock-up on scifi books.
You get the point by now, but I would like to make another one.
According to FerFAL, writing at Surviving in Argentina, during an economic crisis inexpensive entertainment is important because folks don't have excess cash to spend and crime increases making going out dangerous for you and your family.
So,
That means a DVD player and a Netflix account just might be a prepping consideration for you and your family.
Small Towns
I want looking for a largeish cardboard box, a couple of days ago. Guess what?
Yeah, I couldn't find one because there are no businesses in town that receive merchandise in a large box.
Another downside to living in a small town.
19 October 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff
Welcome Preppers and Survivalists,
Money, Savings, and Retirement
I was over at Yahoo: Finance last night watching some videos in The Daily Ticker section.
The videos were informative. They had a couple of different folks on giving their opinions about what's coming. One person Gary Shilling sees a global recession ahead. Another person sees China slowing down, but it's a good thing. Oh, and they also talked about housing; it's bad, another 20% drop.
And, that leads to my next point.
You can find someone, probably on the internet, to back up your opinion on anything, this includes money.
So, watch those opinions, including mine.
I apologize. I had to say it, but let's move on.
First, you and your family should have a little bit of cash in the house. How much? It's up to you and your partner. For us, it's a couple hundred to cover 'little' emergencies.
For 'big' emergencies and purchases, we have a savings account at a local credit union that holds a couple thousand.
Needless to say, we also have retirement accounts, like most folks on our block.
Wow, sounds pretty sane doesn't it.
Who said preppers were crazy?
26 October 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
Obama and You
Folks, way back in '08, I made a bet that Senator Obama would beat Senator McCain's butt during that election. Early this year, I would have made the same bet, but I'm starting to waver.
And, that's a problem because preppers need to plan.
Think about it for a minute.
Should you be buying a little bit more food (possible economic collapse), or should you be buying that last SKS rifle for your 15 year old daughter and a couple hundred rounds? (possible 'assault' weapons ban)
Tough, eh
Link:
Yahoo: Answers - How do you spell the way Canadians say "a"?
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20070425124531AAxtXkv
P.S.
My thought, I get paid today and I have about $100 from some overtime. Me and mine are headed to COSCO to purchase a couple hundred pounds of rice because we already have our SKS rifles and 500 rounds per rifle.
I purchase some oxygen absorbers and do a self-pack. (We already have the mylar bags and buckets)
Which Brings up the Next Point
Spartan and I were talking on Sunday about his idea on buying a 5.45 X 39 upper receiver (Russian AK-74 cartridge) for his AR-15. His thought is to buy the upper receiver and stockpile cheaper 5.45 ammo.
Pretty ingenious idea until we started doing the math. The upper would cost $600, and the ammo would run about $170 for one thousand rounds.
So,
For a thousand bucks, he gets a different rifle and 2000 rounds of ammo. Sounds good doesn't it.
But,
During a crisis, are the Russians going to export 5.45 mm ammo into these United states?
How about spare parts? How many folks, in the states, have a 5.45 mm shooting rifle. Lastly, does the 5.45 mm upper receiver require a different magazine to properly function? If it does, how much do the magazines cost?
Spartan's a thinking kind'a guy, so he asked me about Russians
Lastly, for about a $1000, he could buy two thousand rounds of ammo and have a little, very little, for some spare parts for his 5.56 mm AR-15, it's really his wife's rifle.
Which leads to my next point.
The SKS rifle isn't for Everyone
To me, the SKS rifle is probably the perfect prepper rifle. It's semiautomatic, inexpensive, common all around these United States, ammunition is everywhere, easy to shoot, and ...
Did I say inexpensive?
But,
A returning veteran, combat or peace-time, has a lot of muscle memory built-up using the AR-15. Plus, the AR-15 is a very easy rifle to learn to shoot. Plus, it is probably the most accessorized rifle on this planet. Plus, it is currently used by these United States' military which has lots and lots of ammo.
But,
It will cost you, and cost you dearly compared to the SKS rifle.
So,
Should you be buying a little bit more food or buying that last AR-15 rifle. Me? I'd buy the food and a SKS rifle, and get the AR-15 later trading with some drunk GIs, after the collapse.
2 November 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
OPSEC
Katniss, my wife, and I were talking the other day and she was
We talked about it, and Katniss made a point that I would like to share.
OPSEC is like a play or a movie. Most of the work goes on behind the scenes. All we see is what the director and the actors want us to see. We, preppers and survivalists, need to remember that as we conceal our preparations from friends and family.
Financial Preparations
My sister's death and my Mother-in-Law's heart attack have brought an aspect of prepping that most preppers don't give a lot of thought to my attention, vacation and sick-time.
So far, I have been off from work for three day. Those three days, if I didn't have vacation/sick-time, would have docked my pay, or I would have had to
Or,
Have saved enough money to be able to take the docked pay.
Fiction Books
I like science fiction, and I have recently been reading Lucifer's Hammer. It would make a good introductory book for your friends and family.
Get it from your local library.
Another book, really series of books, I have been reading would be interesting for you and your older children to read. Heck, they have probably already read The Hunger Games.
Sandy
Did y'all see the news reports on the storm. Evacuations to shelters that had to be evacuated. Flooding that prohibited firefighters from fighting fires that spread to over 80 houses because of the strong wind. Carrying patients down five to eight flights of stairs because multiple emergency generators failed to properly operate.
Talk about multiple threats.
9 November 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
2012 Elections
Katniss, my wife, was worried about the election. She believed there was no 'clear' choice because Romney and Obama were very similar about firearms, nationalizing health care, and .... She was also concerned that both failed to adequately address women's issues.
I agree with her, but the election is over. The President of these United States was reelected to office.
So, to me,
These United States' preppers and survivalists are going to face certain challenges.
One of these challenges,
Inflation
Katniss and I have 'cheap' dates these usually happen after a hard day's work, and we are headed to town for something, at day's end. I like Burger King because we both can easily get something to eat. Just so you know, Katniss is a vegetarian. She gets a veggie burger, and I almost always buy a small Whopper Junior meal.
Well, the other day, I noticed the Whopper Jr. had gotten to about the size of a regular hamburger. Plus, Burger King, at least in our area, has stopped offering two Whopper Jr.s for $2. Heck, they have quit offering them 2 for $3.
So,
I believe, we will see inflation start to take off, especially in food and fuel.
Another challenge I see is ...
Firearm's Restrictions
With the President having to leave office after the next presidential election. I think, he will start to work on implementing some kind of firearms' restrictions. Even if he doesn't, there are a lot of people that think he will.
So,
Folks will be buying up ammo, magazines, and the firearms (AKs, SKSs, ARs and ...) that they think the President will attempt to ban.
Another challenge I see is ...
Government Growth
This is a double edged sword.
First, the easiest way (after cooking the books) for the President to lower the unemployment rate is to hire more people for government agencies. Plus, these new hires can implement or enforce obscure regulations.
Remember, one way politicians show their constituents that the politicians are 'working' is to write new laws. New laws that will get enforced.
But,
This is a 'good' thing because federal government jobs usually pay better than private sector jobs.
So,
The, college educated, folks that are able to get these jobs will have more money.
But,
This leads to my last challenge, that I'll mention, for preppers and survivalists.
Higher Taxes
These news government employees will need to get paid. The only way to do that is to raise taxes or borrow the money. Either way, taxes will have to be raised.
These 'taxes' will take many forms:
* Higher fees at National Parks
* Lower 'welfare' cost-of-living adjustments
* Higher excise taxes on certain items
So, do you see any challenges I didn't mention?
18 November 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff, On a Sunday
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
What's Going On!!!
Sorry folks, my life has gotten complicated. I am currently trying to earn a work promotion (failing miserably), find another job (ditto), upgrade my certifications, Mother-in-Law's heart attack (might be moving in), Katniss' retiring (and all the stress that goes with that), and ...
I hope you don't understand ; - )
Don't Be There
I was listening to NPR (National Prepper Radio), the other day. While I was listening, they had a quick blerb about Israel attacking some folks in Gaza. It seems those folks are lobbing rockets because the Israelis had attacked them/assinated one of their leaders.
Later on, a day or two later, NPR had a show about the last time these folks and the Israelis got into it. According to the show, 13 Israelis and over a 1000 of those other folks died.
Let me say that again.
13 Israelis died and over a 1000 Palestinians died.
Folks, if a group hostile to a well-armed government sets-up rocket launchers in your front yard, you and your family need to leave, immediately.
Another reason for an emergency evacuation kit.
By the way ...
Those Rocket Launchers
They're not homemade. They are built by the Iranians.
Link:
Army Recognition.com - Fadijr-5 Multiple Rocket Launcher
http://www.armyrecognition.com/iran_iranian_army_artillery_vehicles_systems_uk/fadjr-5_fajr-5_333mm_multiple_rocket_launcher_system_technical_data_sheet_specifications.html
23 November 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
Is "It" Happening?
Many months ago, Ol' Remus defined the difference between Preppers and Survivalists. He basically said that preppers are preparing for bad times during good times, and survivalists are preparing for bad times during bad times. Pretty simple.
But, I have a question.
Are we as a nation headed towards good times or bad times? Short term? Long term?
Over in Europe, the Union is trying to convince the productive nations to back the debts of other nations. Unemployment has hit over 25% in certain countries. According to some reports, the unemployed will be unemployed for another 10 to 20 years.
The Orient is also affected by economic turmoil; additionally, two of the most powerful nations in that region are rattling the war sabers.
The nations of Africa and the Middle East are, in all but name, at war with some of their citizens and each other.
In the America's, cartels are undermining the central government's control of the country by assassinating elected and appointed officials.
Here in these United States political and economics difficulties are challenging the fabric of society in many states.
According to an opinion piece by Epic Disappointment, the governments of this planet are burning through the easily available oil hasting the end of oil, as we know it.
Doom and Gloom, everywhere I look.
Die-Off
Most of these problems, I mentioned above, are unsolvable like Palestinians wanting to destroy Israel, or Muslims wanting to kill Christians. To me, either side in the conflict will have to completely destroy the other to survive.
The same goes for our current political stalemate. Sooner or later, someone is going to implement the same ideas as Stalin, Mao, or Hitler, if the end of oil doesn't kill a bunch (millions, maybe billions) of us.
Dang
I had some crazy stuff to say. Dang!!!
7 December 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
Russian Traffic Jam
If you read The Drudge Report, you probably saw the article on the Russian 125-mile long traffic jam. If you didn't, vehicle drivers and their passengers where stuck in a 125-mile traffic jab, some for two to three days
 |
| Traffic Jam on A 48
By
Nigel Davies
|
Needless to say, this situation illustrates the importance of having a 'survival' kit in your vehicle to fit your local weather.
So, what do you need?
First, Shelter
Your vehicle will be adequate shelter, in most situations, while you have fuel. Once the car's gasoline is gone, you vehicle will get very cold or very hot, depending on the weather.
In a cold weather situation, you and your family will be able to warm your vehicle with a small candle in a metal can. (Don't forget the matches and a couple of blankets) During warm weather, you will need a small tarp to provide shade for your family because the car will be too hot.
Note:
Some people will disagree with me. They feel, you and your family will need to abandon your vehicle and just use a tent or tarp for shelter.
Why?
They feel a car or truck has poor insulation, so you should move to a shelter that is easier to heat.
Another reason to learn outdoor survival skills, like building a tarp shelter
Second, Water
No matter the weather, you and your family will need water to stay hydrated, in winter or summer.
In either situation, at least one gallon of water per person per day. Of course, you will need to protect the water from freezing in the winter, and have a greater quantity of water in the summer.
To protect the water from freezing, in the winter; just store it in the passenger compartment
Next, Snacks or Food
A little food would help during a breakdown or extreme traffic jam. Nothing fancy because the summer heat and winter's cold will degrade the food pretty quickly or cause cans to burst.
So,
I recommend nuts, dried fruit, snack bars, and other food in plastic packages. Watch the amount salt, though. It will increase the feeling of thirst in your family.
Also, ...
If you decide to have food in metal cans, you'll need a can opener.
Forth, First Aid
A first-aid kit probably really won't be needed during a traffic jam, unless you're part of the accident.
But,
You never know, so carry one, just in case. I recommend, at least, a minimum kit, such as the one required by the German highway police, described here or here, because none of the pieces will degrade from heat or cold.
Oh, by the way, don't forget to carry any daily required medicine with you. You never know.
Lastly, Protection
Needless to say, having a pistol may be needed to protect your family during an emergency while on the road because there are folks that will try to take your stuff.
Link:
Reuters - Snow Traps Drivers for Days in Giant Russia Traffic Jam
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/12/02/us-russia-traffic-idUSBRE8B10BD20121202
Needless to say, there is a lot more that other folks have to say.
Link:
M4040 - How to Build a Decent Car Survival Kit
http://www.m4040.com/Survival/CarSurvivalKit.htm
Wilderness-Survival-Skills.com - Winter car survival kit
http://www.wilderness-survival-skills.com/car-survival-kit.html
Instructables: B - Emergency Car Survival Kit
http://www.instructables.com/id/Emergency-Car-Survival-Kit/7 December, 2012
Pearl Harbor Air Raid
 |
USS West Virginia and USS Tennessee following the Pearl Harbor Attack
by
U.S. Navy
|
On this day, in 1941, the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor leading to four years of war, for these United States.
That was a Black Swan
14 December 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
 |
Mayan Observatory in Chichén Itzá
by
Bruno Girin
|
7 Days
Folks, seven days until the end of the world, at least according to some guy who was interpreting what the Mayans wrote or didn't write over 2000 years ago.
Standards
As you and your family prepare, there is going to come a time when you and your family are going to network with like minded-family members.
All I have to say, right now ...
Keep It Simple.
Shelter at home, in the Suburbs; bugout to friends and family in the 'country' (Make sure they know you're coming)
Water from the tap, stored in 1 and 2 liter bottles
Food from the grocery store, long-term food storage from the Latter-day Saints (Mormons)
Propane grill for emergency cooking
9mm for pistols, 7.62 X 39 for the SKS rifles (Guns)
Rugged clothes, blankets, sheets and other stuff from Goodwill or other inexpensive resale shops
Toiletries (shampoo, body wash, feminine hygiene products, toothpaste, tooth brushes, dental floss, and ...) from the cheapest place in town
Note:
Thanks to Randall Munroe for the awesome comics
Link:
xkcd: A webcomic of romance, sarcasm, math, and language - Home
http://www.xkcd.com
14 December 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff, Part Two
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
I Agree Mr. President
Earlier today, a young man killed his mother, stole her firearms, and walked into an elementary school and murdered 26 or more people. Many of them, about 20, were children.
We will learn more about this horrendous crime, as the days go by.
Needless to say, the President of these United States gave a short speech to express his condolences on behalf of the nation. He also said
"As a country, we have been through this too many times. Whether it is an elementary school in Newtown, or a shopping mall in Oregon, or a temple in Wisconsin, or a movie theater in Aurora, or a street corner in Chicago, these neighborhoods are our neighborhoods and these children are our children. And we're going to have to come together and take meaningful action to prevent more tragedies like this, regardless of the politics."
I agree Mr. President!!!
We as a country must take meaningful action to eliminate "Gun-Free" zones. We as a nation must allow our citizens to arm themselves in our schools, in our shopping malls, in our places of worship, and in All of our cities because predators prey upon the weak, and removing firearms from our citizens' hands allow predators to prey upon our children, our elderly, and ourselves.
21 December 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
Happy End of the World
Dang, I was walking around all day yesterday thinking it was Friday. Either way, I'll have an article for you at 6:30 PST, today.
21 December 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff, Part Two
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
It Didn't Happen
As y'all know the end of the world didn't happen; it usually doesn't.
So, ...
Should you quit prepping?
Nope, because we still don't know when the next disaster can happen, and ...
OK. I have to change the subject.
 |
President of these United States
and
Firearm, Ammunition, and Magazine Salesman of the Decade
|
As you have probably heard, the president has "called on Congress to reinstate an assault weapons ban"
Needless to say, folks are spending money left and right buying rifles, ammunition, and magazines because of the uncertainty. (I want to a couple gun stores in town, yesterday; they were packed)
Should you buy? As always it's up to you.
But, like I tell y'all
I would purchase a SKS rifle (no magazines to buy) and 250 to 500 rounds of ammunition then a .357 magnum revolver and 100 to 250 rounds of ammunition, just in case.
If you already have a SKS rifle, make sure you and your family have, say, 500 rounds of ammunition. If you already have the ammo, then go buy a .357 magnum revolver. (Remember, no magazines. Plus, a .357 revolver will shoot .357 magnum and .38 special cartridges)
If you're on a bigger budget, and you're not listening to me, stock up on magazines for your rifle and pistol, if the magazines are designed to hold more than ten rounds. Don't forget the ammo. Don't go crazy buying it all up, you'll only need, say, 500 rounds for the rifle and 250 rounds for the pistol.
Almost lastly, if you have a rifle and 500 rounds of ammunition, a .357 magnum revolver and 250 rounds of ammo, for all the adult family members, you might want to look into ordering some spare parts for the rifle and revolver.
Lastly, I would start writing and calling my elected representatives and let your opinion be known because they're the ones that will make any ban happen.
For you doomers and gloomers, you might want to add low-intensity conflict to your threat analysis or move"Civil War" closer to the top of your list of possible bad things happening. Again, just in case.
The Telegraph
I had heard how some news organizations will allow you to comment on a story, but they would delete the comment once you left the site.
Or, ...
Only show your comment to you, so no one else would see it. (This can happen because the news organization placed a cookie on your computer)
That seemed to happen when I tried to write a comment on this story about Ms. Lanza, twice.
Needless to say, there are a lot of folks that are failing to prepare for reoccurring disaster, in their country.
I suggest you read the comments to see what I'm talking about.
Oh, I almost forgot. Did you see the mistake Mr. Simon Dillon and Mr. Royston Upson made in the article?
They talked to the media!!!
Now everybody that reads that article knows where they live, current and/or former occupations, that they store food, have a family (one commenter, even did the math to find out how many kids Mr. Dillon and his wife might have)
P.S.
Mr. Wallop and his editor are cads.
A Moment of Silence, My A**
Folks, a famous poet once said something like, 'Do not go gently into that good night.'
And, Dylan Thomas was right. We need to fight, resist, scream, shout, and fight back. Screw being silent as thieves, rapist, and murders steal the lives of our daughters, sons, brothers, sisters, mothers, and fathers.
Lastly, we need to remember, those adults did not have the means to resist an armed gunman. We need to give all of our citizens the means to resist by removing federal and state "Gun-Free" zones from public property.
22 December 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff, On a Saturday
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
Killing Police Officers, National Guardsmen, and
Military Members
Every once in a while, some folks will start talking about banning firearms, Ms. Feinstein called for a prospective ban (I heard Feinstein had called for a retro-active ban but I can't find it, now) on so-called "Assault Weapons," usually the the AR-15 series, HK-91 series, AK-47 series, and other 'black rifles'
A little while later, other folks will start talking about the need to start, maybe, killing people who come to take our firearms. In other words, start killing cops (rappers do it every once in a while, here and here)
That's a bad idea, a very bad idea.
Why?
Most Police Officers are the 'good' gals and guys. They are just enforcing the laws.
Yea, yea, people will say they don't enforce the law equally. I'll give you that,
But, ...
We need these folks to come to work. Police officers, radio dispatcher, fire fighters, ambulance personnel, and many others are part of the 'glue' that holds our society together. These folks fail to show up for work; criminals will go to work
And, ...
Our society will start to fray, maybe fall apart.
So, NO, KILLING COPS!!! Remember, NO, KILLING COPS!!!
What to Do
First, there is a saying in the Patriot movement that goes something like this:
"There are four boxes to be used in the defense of liberty: soapbox, ballot box, jury box and ammo box. Please use in that order."
And, we need to do that.
You and I need to explain to our family and friends that Obama, Durbin, Feinstein, Manchin, Warner, Bloomberg, are really talking about limiting our freedoms. We don't kill children; we don't kill adults; and we don't kill police officers.
We also need to talk to each other. Some folks in the firearms community are willing to compromise. They don't see the 'need' for 'assault rifles,' 15-round and 30-round (normal capacity) magazines, or the ability to sell a firearm to a private party, within state borders, without going through a FFL.
We need to explain (I have some of these folks in my family) that Obama, Durbin, Feinstein, Manchin, Warner, Bloomberg, and many others won't stop at rifles that look evil; they will come after the 'sniper' rifles, the high-powered ammunition, the 'assault' shotguns. Heck, what's going to stop these folks from banning 7-round or 10-round magazines.
Or, ...
22LR ammunition. Remember, 5.56 mm ammunition for your AR-15 is really .223 ammo.
We also need to talk to our firearm dealers (FFL). Some gun dealers think a compromise will be good for business because all ammunition and firearms purchases will have to go through a FFL holder. Remember, the BATFE (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives) has reduced the number of commercial FFL holders over the years by applying restrictive interpretation of the laws.
You and I also need to write our local paper explaining these issues. If your local paper doesn't support our freedom, you need to write the advertisers and explain how you and your family will boycott that business. Heck, your family may even have to cancel your newspaper and magazine subscriptions.
Next,
We need to quit electing and reelecting anti-freedom (gun control) politicians. If your elected representative sponsors or votes for one of these bills, that will soon be introduced, they need to go through a recall if possible, this goes for the state and local-level elected officials, too. Don't forget the appointed officials, either.
Needless to say, you can also tell which politicians are anti-freedom because they're talking about supporting efforts, compromising, and other sh*t that support Obama, Durbin, Feinstein, Manchin, Warner, Bloomberg, and many others' calls for action to ban or limit our freedom.
We also need to be sending hand-written letters to our elected officials, e-mails, and making phone calls telling them no new firearms bills, laws, or regulations. Even though this seems to be a national effort/debate, you and I need to write our state and local-level politician and request they contact the federal office holders, too.
Plus, we need to remind them, any Executive Order dealing with firearms from the president will result in their losing office next election.
Third, we will have to preform our jury duty by letting any and all firearm-ban violators go free. This also includes sending money to folks like the Second Amendment Foundation, so they can bring lawsuits into our courts challenging any anti-freedom laws
Lastly, I would like to point out a poem by Loree (Mason) O'Neil called "The Four Boxes" In her poem, Ms. O'Neil reminds us that the ammo box holds "sadness and wails."
And, ...
If it comes to that ...
Remember:
NO, SHOOTING COPS!!!
Link:
Wikipedia - Four Boxes of Liberty
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Four_boxes_of_liberty
The Four Boxes by Loree (Mason) O'Neil
http://www.poetrybyloree.com/294.html
Boycotts
Over the last few day, folks have stopped selling firearms, on-line and at their stores.
That's cool with me. They are private businesses; they are allowed to change their policies.
I am also allowed to boycott their stores and products.
Bye bye.
Cheaper Than Dirt
Dick's Sporting Goods
P.S.
I'd like to thank Guns.com for pointing out this issue to me.
Just so you know, I have done business with these companies in the past, and I still haven't done business with 7-Eleven since they pulled Playboy from their stores in the 80s. Same goes for Smith and Wesson since they caved to Clinton in the 90s, however the M&P 9 mm are tempting me.
Link:
Guns.com - Editorial: And so the shooting world says ‘Good riddance’ to Cheaper than Dirt
http://www.guns.com/2012/12/19/and-so-the-shooting-world-says-good-riddance-to-cheaper-than-dirt/
28 December 2012
Friday's Thoughts and Other Stuff
Dear Preppers and Survivalists,
Moving In, Temporarily
My mother-in-law continues having health issues, so she has 'temporarily' moved in with my family. She will be with us for at least two weeks.
Needless to say, her visit has been disruptive.
We had to kick one of the kids out of her bedroom, so mom-in-law could have a nice bed. Of course, mom-in-law adds another person to the queue for the bathroom, in the morning and at night, and she uses our 'stuff' like toilet paper, food, and clean towels.
Oh, I almost forgot; mom-in-law adds to the wash pile.
So, ...
Her visit has me thinking about her during a disaster.
First, we will probably have to go and get her. Since, I don't stockpile clothing and such for her, we will have to load up our vehicles with her stuff, such as clothing, valuables (firearms and jewelry), medicine/medical care items, and ...
Dang, now I need to make a list of stuff to take from her home, if she has to evacuate to my family's home. I figure the list will be categorized into a one trip, two trip with the most important stuff listed and taken on the first trip and lesser priority stuff taken during a possible second trip.
Some things we definitely won't bring during the first trip or second trip will be her bedding. She sleeps on a twin bed and all of our beds are queen-size. Neither will we bring any of her furniture. We have all the furniture my family needs and some.
Her animals, seven chickens (three roosters and four hens), two goats, five ducks, and three cats (one indoor and two outdoor) will need to be picked up in the first load, and we will need to provide shelter, water, and food. Yes, just like you and me, domesticated animals need certain needs taken care of to guarantee their survival during a disaster.
Of course, not all disasters will require us to go get her. To be in fact, some disasters may require my family to go to her home.
Needless to say, that is another article on caches.
Got to go. Katniss brought me some hot chocolate. ; - )
No comments:
Post a Comment