1776PatriotUSA.com

Category: Preparedness

  • Digital Preparedness Library – Updated Download Section

    Digital Preparedness Library – Updated Download Section

     

    The most significant recent change here at 1776PatriotUSA.com is within the DOWNLOAD section. It has been greatly expanded and reformatted. There is now over 60 gigabytes of information organized within folders and accessible using a newly generated graphic interface. New files are being added almost daily.

    Information is valuable and in a grid-down, no internet, no book store existence finding out how to get tomatoes to grow larger and produce more is why a preparedness library is so important. While I advocate for “real” books that can have its pages turned there is no doubt that digital media has its advantages. The ability to store countless thousands of books, manuals, guides, articles, and videos digitally is a huge plus that cannot be overstated.

    I highly recommend the use if an Amazon Fire tablet for building and accessing a digital preparedness library. They are high quality and inexpensive. With the addition of microSD cards and an almost limitless supply of references and entertainment can be stored.

    Oh – and if you happen to have anything you would be willing to share in The Library let me know. Send me an email at 1776PatriotUSA (at) gmail (dot) com.

     

    Below is a screenshot from the Download Section

    digital, prepper, preparedness, library, survival,

  • From the Desk of John Rourke

    From the Desk of John Rourke

     

    As a teenager growing up in the 80’s I discovered preparedness or as it was known back then survivalism and being a survivalist. I tended to focus on nuclear war survival, civil defense and shelter construction. 14 years old and I was focused on one enemy – the Soviet Union. As I live my life now it seems threats come in all shapes and sizes and from every direction. The culture of the United States has changed, and the division within its populace has grown to a point that external threats may pale in comparison to the internal ones. While I generally have been very critical of people who predict and prepare for one specific thing – there are reasons to contemplate that which you feel is most likely and may require certain preps. More on that in another post.

    survival knife, survival, Rambo, 80's, hollow handle, preparedness, survivalist,

    I miss the 80’s. I miss going to the Civil Defense office at City Hall and reading up on fallout shelters. I miss the fantasy of grabbing my big hollow-handled survival knife and heading out into the wilderness to survive. Hey – I was 14. I miss thinking that survival was living out some unrealistic scenario from the movie Red Dawn. Yeah – things were much simpler back then.

     

    Today I deal with the harsh reality that a second civil war or new American Revolution would be beyond difficult. That an EMP from some overhead satellite would create conditions so desperate that things like cannibalism would become commonplace. The level of darkness and evil that would arise, well, most cannot comprehend.

    antifa, threat,civil war, domestic conflict

    People suck. In a domestic conflict and especially after EMP people would suck even worse. Back in the 80’s many of us envisioned Americans coming together to fight together against a common enemy. Today? Not so much.

    In the 80’s when the threat of the Soviet Union generated Patriotism and movies like Red Dawn – it was much simpler.

    Rourke

  • The Hand Crank Weather Radio, a Necessity, not a Luxury?

    The Hand Crank Weather Radio, a Necessity, not a Luxury?

     

    Looking back at a very useful article published here on 1776PatriotUSA last month (September 13, 2018) entitled Basic Hurricane Preparedness it was mentioned that listening to the radio for weather updates was important. I’d like to take that a little step further and expand upon the importance of the AM/FM radio when the SHTF, whether that would be a weather-related situation or man-made, and particularly those radios that can be charged using a hand crank power generation system.

    Without trying to put a jinx on anyone’s life here, it’s pretty easy to understand how being prepared for an emergency can only be deemed as a positive thing, especially when the reality is that many emergency situations can occur with little or no advance warning.

    When these situations do arise though, a radio will be the most reliable means of gathering up-to-date information about what’s going on, what and what not to do, and where’s safe and where’s not safe to go.

    So, in the interest of being prepared for the worst that life can throw at you, let’s take a look at some tips for finding the best and most dependable radios for when disaster strikes!

    Why a hand crank rather than a standard radio?

    First of all, any AM/FM radio will be better than having no radio at all, and that’s a fact, but what will you do when your radio only uses mains electricity and the power goes down, which is highly likely no matter what the crisis?

    In all fairness, most modern radios also use batteries of one kind or another as well as mains electricity, but once those batteries are flat and your emergency stash has gone, what then?

    In this scenario, the sensible option is a hand crank radio which will continue to provide you with access to emergency broadcasts and other any vital information without being connected to the grid or even the need for batteries.

    Hand crank radios use kinetic energy developed by your own hand movements to power up. That energy is stored as magnetic energy in self-contained lithium-ion batteries or alternatively, a large capacitor.

    Regardless of how the basic science behind hand crank power generation works, hand crank radios are without a doubt invaluable at times when extreme weather strikes, or when other SHTF situations cause long-term power outages. And hand crank power generation isn’t just isolated to emergency radios either, it is during these times of grid disruption that you’ll also be grateful that you’ve put your faith in a few trusty hand crank lanterns and flashlights too for good measure!

    What should you look for in a hand crank radio?

    Hand crank radios, as with any other types of radio, come in many shapes and sizes, and they can also be quite diverse in terms of their overall cost.

    As with making any purchase related to your personal safety, performance should always be the key element in your decision-making process, especially when talking about equipment your life could depend upon.

    Here are a few pointers as to what to look for when choosing a hand crank radio:

    1. Check your budget. If budget isn’t an issue for you, you should always bear in mind that quite often the best performing radio isn’t necessarily the most expensive one on the shelf! Hand crank radios can set you back anything up to $100 but there are plenty of really good radios that can be purchased for under $50, it all depends on how many bells and whistles you want with your radio! Which leads me very nicely into…
    2. Make sure your radio has support for VHF and the NOAA frequencies. The radios you consider should all have the Public Alert logo and/or the NOAA NWR All Hazards logo. I haven’t mentioned it enough here but your radio NEEDS to be a weather radio. In reality, you are more likely to put your emergency radio to use during a weather disaster than you would during an EMP attack for example, so NOAA functionality is a given!
    3. They are not very common, but make sure the radios you are checking out are able to store electrical energy and not just allow you to generate it. Battery powered hand crank radios should have additional backups such as solar cells, electronic capacitors or mechanisms that store the momentum of your cranking movements to prolong the electrical power that they generate.
    4. Portability and a user-friendly design should also be high on your list. Your radio should be compact, easy to use and handy. It should also be able to withstand just about anything that mother nature would throw at it during a weather emergency.

    If you follow these steps they should help you track down the most suitable hand crank emergency weather radio for your needs and your budget.

    …………………………………………………………………………

    Article kindly provided by Danny Major owner of Alpha Survivalist

  • The One Acre(or less) Homestead

    The One Acre(or less) Homestead

    There’s a movement within the US population to head towards increased self-sufficiency and insulation from the effects of governmental action. What does this really mean? Simply it is taking action to be as independent as possible and reduce the effect of economic and social trends on your life. 

    Being more self reliant can be very beneficial during times of shortages or rising prices. As preppers, we prepare for interruptions to such things as power, transportation, medical care, and food supply.  Many people are overwhelmed at the thought of running an entire farm to provide the necessary things for their family. There are many examples of people who have created homesteads one acre or less and are incredibly productive. While they may not provide 100% of their year-round food supply, they are very much insulated from the effects of economic downturns.

    The following video is one such example of a one acre homestead.

  • What if Trump is Impeached? Is The Left Really Ready For What Comes Next?

    What if Trump is Impeached? Is The Left Really Ready For What Comes Next?

    Division in this country continues to increase and talk of a second civil war is ramping up. While many believe the possibility of a second civil war(CW2) is ridiculous – it’s a fact that more and more people are seeing the possibility. When and who are on each side? That’s the $50,000 dollar question and giving an accurate prediction would be an effort in futility.

    Much of this division is directly related to politics and socio-economic beliefs. I believe most Americans regardless of there political leanings are fairly common in their beliefs. So, why the increasing division? The media is largely responsible for motivating one group against the other. It is also very true that the belief systems within the Democrat and Republican parties have changed.  The Democrat party has swung way to the Left, while the Republican party has slowly moved to the Right. Those on the Left are now suggesting violence against the Right on a regular basis. This is a significant and important change as the amount of violence at protests, and against the Right is increasing. Regardless – Congress is full of corrupt politicians on both sides.

    With the #NeverTrump and #Impeach45 movements gaining ground in the Left, along with the midterm elections fast approaching there is growing concern that a Democrat-controlled Congress will lead to Trump being removed from office. The following video discusses that possibility.

    Thoughts?

  • Rourke’s Recommendations

    Rourke’s Recommendations

     

    Every Thursday I recommend a few things such as movies, books, and an assortment of gear – all kinds of stuff. Some of these are related to survival & preparedness – while others are just stuff I like. Most are on Amazon but not all.

    So – for this week……here is my list:

     

    Books:

    The Survival Group Handbook

    MAGS: The People Part of Prepping

    The Woodland Homestead

     

    Movies:

    A Quiet Place

    Death Wish(2018)

    Braven(2018)

     

    Gear:

    Transcendence Daily Planner – get organized and be productive

    Condor H2O Pouch

    Nagoya 15.6″ Antenna for Baofeng Ham Radio’s

  • Rourke’s Recommendations

    Rourke’s Recommendations

     

    Every Thursday I recommend a few things such as movies, books, and an assortment of gear – all kinds of stuff. Some of these are related to survival & preparedness – while others are just stuff I like. Most are on Amazon but not all.

    So – for this week……here is my list:

     

    Books:

    Lights Out – Crawford

    Divided We Fall: A Novel of the Coming Civil War

    The Divide

     

    Movies:

    Back to the Future: The Trilogy

    The Sandlot

    The Great Outdoors

     

    Gear:

    Uniden Bearcat Single Side Band 980SSB CB Radio

    150 watt CB Radio Amplifier

    Cobra Minimalist CB Radio All-In-One Radio

  • Rourke’s Recommendations

    Rourke’s Recommendations

     

    Every Thursday I recommend a few things such as movies, books, and an assortment of gear – all kinds of stuff. Some of these are related to survival & preparedness – while others are just stuff I like. Most are on Amazon but not all.

    So – for this week……here is my list:

    Books:

    Bug Out: The Complete Plan For Escaping

    Bug Out Vehicles and Shelters

    Mini Farming: Self-Sufficiency on 1/4 Acre

    Back to Basics

     

    Movies/TV:

    Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom DVD

    JAWS

    The Perfect Storm

    Deep Impact

     

    Gear:

    Condor T&T Pouch

    Cold Steel SRK Knife

    MTM Tactical Mag Can for AR Magazines

    15,000 Non-GMO Seed Bank

    *     *     *     *     *     *     *

    Knife Recommendation –

    I received the HX Outdoors Survival Knife months ago and have been impressed with it ever since. I can tell you this is the sharpest knife I have ever had EXCEPT for a Cold Steel Recon Tanto I owned back in the late 80’s. This thing came SHARP.

    201509251955473928

    Here are a few of the features:

    D2 coated blade and Kydex sheath, more durable, wear-resistance
    G10 material handle
    Tail hammer will help you break the window or hammer
    Two holes of the handle make it easy to make into the spear
    Detachable magnesium rod for firestarting
    Built in diamond sharpener on sheath

    [slideshow_deploy id=’1416′]

    More-Info

     

  • List of Common Radio Frequencies for the Baofeng UV-5R

    List of Common Radio Frequencies for the Baofeng UV-5R

     

    Communication at the retreat, off the grid, or on the farm is essential and does not have to be extremely expensive or overly complicated.

    For less than the cost of a decent dinner out for two people a full-featured short to medium distance communication tool – the Baofeng UV-5R – can be purchased. Extremely popular, the Baofeng is a compact, handheld radio capable of transmitting with 4 watts of power across 136-174 MHz and 400-480 MHz frequencies. It can be programmed with up to 128 channels.

    The Baofeng is a ham radio. Transmitting on this radio requires a license in order to do so legally. There are lots of places on the ‘net to get more information on that. The purpose of this post is to provide an assortment of useful frequencies the Baofeng can be programmed for.

    Did you know the Baofeng also receives FM radio? Pretty cool and useful.

    For the money, the Baofeng UV-5R and similar models are a great deal.

     

    FRS/GMRS Frequencies 

    frs, gmrs, 2017, frequencies, baofeng,

     

    MURS Radio Frequencies

    151.820 Mhz
    151.880 Mhz
    151.940 Mhz
    154.570 Mhz
    154.600 Mhz

     

    NOAA Weather Radio Frequencies

     WX1         --     162.550   
 WX2         --     162.400
 WX3         --     162.475
 WX4         --     162.425
 WX5         --     162.450
 WX6         --     162.500
 WX7         --     162.525

    Commercial “DOT” Frequencies

    151.625 Red Dot
    154.570 Blue Dot
    154.600 Green Dot
    151.955 Purple Dot
    464.550 Yellow Dot
    464.500 Brown Dot
    467.7625 J Dot
    467.8125 KDot
    467.8500 Silver Star
    467.8750 Gold Star
    467.9000 Red Star
    467.9250 Blue Star

     

     

    Marine VHF Designated Frequencies
    Channel Number Ship Transmit
    MHz    		 Ship Receive
    MHz    		 Intended And Designated Use
    01A 156.050 156.050 Port Operations and Commercial, VTS.  Available only in New Orleans / Lower Mississippi area.
    05A 156.250 156.250 Port Operations or VTS in the Houston, New Orleans and Seattle areas.
    06 156.300 156.300 Intership Safety
    07A 156.350 156.350 Commercial
    08 156.400 156.400 Commercial (Intership only)
    09 156.450 156.450 Boater Calling.  Commercial and Non-Commercial.
    10 156.500 156.500 Commercial
    11 156.550 156.550 Commercial.  VTS in selected areas.
    12 156.600 156.600 Port Operations.  VTS in selected areas.
    13 156.650 156.650 Intership Navigation Safety (Bridge-to-bridge).  Ships >20m length maintain a listening watch on this channel in US waters.
    14 156.700 156.700 Port Operations.  VTS in selected areas.
    15 — 156.750 Environmental (Receive only).  Used by Class C EPIRBs.
    16 156.800 156.800 International Distress, Safety and Calling.  Ships required to carry radio, USCG, and most coast stations maintain a listening watch on this channel.
    17 156.850 156.850 State Control
    18A 156.900 156.900 Commercial
    19A 156.950 156.950 Commercial
    20 157.000 161.600 Port Operations (duplex)
    20A 157.000 157.000 Port Operations
    21A 157.050 157.050 U.S. Coast Guard only
    22A 157.100 157.100 Coast Guard Liaison and Maritime Safety Information Broadcasts.   Broadcasts announced on channel 16.
    23A 157.150 157.150 U.S. Coast Guard only
    24 157.200 161.800 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)
    25 157.250 161.850 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)
    26 157.300 161.900 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)
    27 157.350 161.950 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)
    28 157.400 162.000 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)
    63A 156.175 156.175 Port Operations and Commercial, VTS.  Available only in New Orleans / Lower Mississippi  area.
    65A 156.275 156.275 Port Operations
    66A 156.325 156.325 Port Operations
    67 156.375 156.375 Commercial.  Used for Bridge-to-bridge communications in lower Mississippi River.  Intership only.
    68 156.425 156.425 Non-Commercial
    69 156.475 156.475 Non-Commercial
    70 156.525 156.525 Digital Selective Calling (voice communications not allowed)
    71 156.575 156.575 Non-Commercial
    72 156.625 156.625 Non-Commercial (Intership only)
    73 156.675 156.675 Port Operations
    74 156.725 156.725 Port Operations
    77 156.875 156.875 Port Operations (Intership only)
    78A 156.925 156.925 Non-Commercial
    79A 156.975 156.975 Commercial.  Non-Commercial in Great Lakes only
    80A 157.025 157.025 Commercial.  Non-Commercial in Great Lakes only
    81A 157.075 157.075 U.S. Government only – Environmental protection operations.
    82A 157.125 157.125 U.S. Government only
    83A 157.175 157.175 U.S. Coast Guard only
    84 157.225 161.825 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)
    85 157.275 161.875 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)
    86 157.325 161.925 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)
    87 157.375 161.975 Public Correspondence (Marine Operator)
    AIS 1 161.975 161.975 Automatic Identification System #1 (AIS) – Special equipment required!
    88 157.425 162.025 Public Correspondence only near Canadian border.
    AIS 2 162.025 162.025 Automatic Identification System #2 (AIS) – Special equipment required!
    88A 157.425 157.425 Commercial, Intership only.

     

    If you have enjoyed this article and would like to receive email notifications when new posts are published – feel free to subscribe for email updates. No SPAM will be sent to you.

      *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *

    From the Supply Depot: RECOMMENDED MOVIES

    Red Dawn(1984) – a classic.

    The Revenant

    THEM – a classic monster flick from the 50’s. Love this movie.

    The 5th Wave

    The Last Ship – TV series

    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *

    Looking for Preparedness Supplies? Check out the Fantastic Monthly Sale at Emergency Essentials.

    Emergency Essentials has been an industry leader for over 25 years. Excellent service and prices have kept them leader of the pack.

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    From food storage products to camping supplies Emergency Essentials carries it all.

    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *

    Need clean water? 

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  • Rourke’s Recommendations

    Rourke’s Recommendations

     

    Every Thursday I recommend a few things such as movies, books, and an assortment of gear – all kinds of stuff. Some of these are related to survival & preparedness – while others are just stuff I like. Most are on Amazon but not all.

    So – for this week……here is my list:

    Books:

    Patriots: A Novel of Survival in the Coming Collapse

    How To Survive The End of the World As We Know It

    The Encyclopedia of Country Living

    The Backyard Homesteader

     

    Movies/TV:

    The Matrix Collection

    Constantine

    End of Days

    The Lake House

     

    Gear:

    Lightning X IFAK

    Garden Seed Organizer

    Olight PL-Mini Valkryie 400 Lumen Weapons Light

    Condor H2O Pouch

     

    *     *     *     *     *     *     *

    Item Spotlight:

    KMASHI Portable Power Battery Bank – I have been using two of these for the past year and it works great. Enough capacity to charge my cell phone at least three times – it is great for when a power cord or outlet just isn’t available. Works for pretty much any device that will charge via a USB port.

    powerbank

    Great value at around $12 with Free PRIME Shipping.

  • What are the strengths of every age group in a crisis?

    What are the strengths of every age group in a crisis?

     

    When it comes to prepping, one of the most frightening and difficult aspects can be our family members. In my particular situation, I have an elderly father who lives with us that has recently had a serious fall, injured himself, and been diagnosed with dementia.

    So the question has arisen in my home: how do we prepare with Pop in such bad health?

    The news, however, is not quite so doom and gloom. In fact, every single age group has strengths when crisis strikes. Some of these strengths are obvious (like the fact that youth are energetic) while others are hidden quite well (like the fact that youth can help others be encouraged in a crisis).

    This post was designed so that when crisis strikes, you are able to look at your family, friends, and team and know how each member is able to bring a unique power to the group. Without even one member of your team, your team would be more subject to devastation in a crisis. So let’s look at what a few of these strengths are for each age group.

    Youth: Youth are both the joy and the bane of modern culture. Their music isn’t as good, their tv shows aren’t as good, and Millennials are, as a group, frustrating to deal with.

    But in a crisis, youth have several unique strengths.

    First of all, youth have the ability to do work. A lot of work. I was out digging holes for my plants today and my back kept bothering me while I was digging. As a result, I would dig a few holes, take a break, and go back to digging a few more. It was time consuming, tiring, and (worst of all), painful.

    My son drives in from work and comes over to lend me a hand. In 15 minutes, he does as much work as I did in an hour. I could have just spit!

    But this shows the incredible power that youth possess: their backs don’t burn, their knees don’t ache, and if they’re encouraged and loved the right way, they have an incredible work capacity.

    Youth also possess an abundant amount of energy and when morale is down, there isn’t much that makes people happier than seeing hard working young folk.

    When it comes to a crisis, youth are at once energetic enough to do hard work and energetic enough to remind those on our team what we are fighting for: love, happiness, and freedom.

    Middle Aged Crowd: I firmly and proudly place myself in this category. If you woke up this morning and remembered how good 20, 30, or even 40 felt, then remembered that it’s gonna get a whole lot worse, you’re probably here too!

    But my generation has unique strengths in a crisis, particularly the strengths of leadership and creativity.

    Let’s face it: young people today are just not wired like we were. I don’t know if it’s the tablets and smartphones or the pitiful educational system in some places, but if I didn’t teach my boys how to hold a hammer, they’d have gone well into their teens and twenties without ever knowing how to drive a nail.

    Young people are creative online, but not in person. My generation has the unique strength that we can see a problem and find a physical solution. We can help others see our vision and guide them onto the path of help.

    When it comes to a crisis, no one is better suited to lead than those who are aging in body but young in heart and mind.

    My generation is also capable of doing (some!) physical labor. In my opinion, my generation has excellent social skills and can work hard to keep others in line and happy. Because the middle age crowd serves as a bridge between youth and elderly folks, we are the ideal leaders and strategists when SHTF.

    Speaking of the elderly folks…

    The Well-Experienced: Those among us who have plenty of life experience make for incredible companions during a crisis. My father, though he has dementia and is a fraction of his former self, is one of the most courageous and loving men I know.

    He’s a manly man too!

    Those among us who are widely versed in the ways of the world have a set of strengths that other age groups simply can’t match in any way, shape, form, or fashion: you bring the wisdom, love, and guidance of a life time.

    There will never be a time when people need more sage advice than during a crisis. When SHTF, emotions will be high. People will be frustrated, hurt, and will feel alone. Never before has there been such a need for those of us who have experienced those emotions to share their wisdom.

    If you or your loved ones fit into the well-aged crowd, know this: those in the well-aged crowd know things that I don’t. You can have deeply personal conversations with your team. You can bring stability, hope, and courage, reminding those that bad times have happened in the past and will happen again, but that good times are coming.

    Those of us who are experienced at life also bring another unique skillset: for most of you, you grew up outside, in the real world! I can’t tell you how many times my father has given me gardening tips that sound crazy but work out better than I could ever imagine.

    Dad knows what kind of foods you can eat in the wild, how to hunt, how to grow food, how to identify poisons, and who knows what else. If you are well-experienced in life, you bring a knowledge of the outdoors that the modern man or woman simply does not possess.

    If you are in this crowd, do not lose hope. Effective survival teams do not happen without you.

     

    Conclusion

    Whatever your team composition is, whatever your family looks like, whoever you’re stuck with in a crisis, know that every age group brings specific skills, abilities, and strengths.

    Do not forget to value the strengths that aren’t physical, as these strengths are often even more important. Wherever you fit in the age range, know that you are valuable and that the team is not as effective without you in it.

    You have something to contribute.

    Tony

    PrepSurvivalGuide.com

  • Review: Condor T&T EDC Pouch Kit

    Review: Condor T&T EDC Pouch Kit

     

    Something I have been slack in is my EDC. I have a few things in my Jeep but as far as an organized EDC kit that has been absent. I picked up a Condor T&T pouch a few months ago and finally got around to throwing some stuff in it. My intended purpose for the EDC kit is purely to organize a variety of items not commonly found in a vehicle but could prove very useful. The Condor T&T functions well in this regard as it has a variety of pockets and stretchy loops which to place things.Condor T&T, EDC, pouch, kit, EDC, review, survival, bug out

    While the Condor can be thrown in a bug out bag or survival kit mine rest in the back of the Jeep.

    Contents:

    • Gerber multi-tool
    • ear plugs
    • Sharpie marker
    • P51 can opener
    • Repel insect repellent
    • Streamlight Stylus Pro flashlight
    • Coast G45 LED Flashlight
    • emergency poncho
    • extra charging cables – micro USB, Lightning, and USB Type-C
    • Mossy Oak 4000mAh Pocket Juice battery
    • memo pad, small
    • pencil
    • sewing kit
    • wire ties(8)
    • compass
    • Seek Thermal XR Imager – for iPhone
    • tooth brush
    • toothpaste
    • Ganzo G704 folding knife
    • Water Jel Burn Jel cream(3 packs)
    • Band-Aids(8, standard size)
    • Triple Antibiotic Ointment(4, .5 gram packs)
    • Tweezers
    • Paracord(20 feet)
    • $50 in assorted bills

     

    Condor Materials & Construction

    The construction of the Condor is excellent. The material is something similar to Cordura. Stitching is tight and all seams are double-stitched everywhere. The zipper appears to be oversized for the application which is just fine for me. Seems rugged enough to last years riding in my Jeep or inside a pack.

    Condor T&T, review, EDC, prepper, SHTF

    Features

    Size of the pack is 10″ x 7″ x 1.5″. While accurate the thickness of 1.5″ is when empty. Once loaded it expands out and mine is between 3″ and 4″ thick. Weight is just under one pound.

    For organizing supplies, the pouch has one internal sleeve, one zipper pocket, and numerous elastic loops of different sizes on both halves. The elastic pockets are sized to hold things like AA batteries up to multi-tools. A lot of gear can be stored for easy access.

    The Condor T&T can be mounted via 4 Molle straps or left independent. There are two D-rings on each top corner. These can be used to hang the pouch or attach it using a variety of means.

    Condor, EDC, review, T&T pouch, survival kit,

    Summary

    At around $25 the Condor T&T is well worth it. Its build quality is excellent and its versatility lends itself to many roles. I can see owning 3-4 of these and use them for things like tools, electronics, and first aid.

    RECOMMENDED.

    Rourke

     

    Interested in more camping and outdoor gear reviews? Have a look at https://GearLobo.com

  • Analytical Survival on Basic Preparedness: Alternative Fuel Sources

    Analytical Survival on Basic Preparedness: Alternative Fuel Sources

    Analytical Survival brings forth another excellent video discussing alternative fuel sources.  He covers topics such as gasoline storage, electricity, and heating methods.

    A good point he makes is building preps for alternative fuel sources over time. This can get expensive especially if purchasing generators. I recommend concentrating early on with cooking and vehicle fuel sources. A good Coleman camp stove with extra fuel canister is a portable means for cooking. If you have a gas grill at home pick up several extra propane tanks. Purchase several 5-gallon metal gas cans and set up a rotation system.

    Here’s the video:

     

     

  • Video: US MARINE – The Truth About Thumb Over Bore!

    Video: US MARINE – The Truth About Thumb Over Bore!

     

    There’s not much that will create an argument more than asking “What is the best firing stance and grip?” in a forum of AR shooters. While everyone has an opinion and many feel their’s is the only one that counts I’ll give you my quick answer – “The one that you are comfortable with and allows rounds to be sent down range – accurately.”

    Pretty simple.

    Several years ago I heard of this method competition shooters were using to control recoil and shoot very accurately – called the “C-Clamp”. I tried and hated it. Man – it felt so uncomfortable. I preferred to hold the magazine well however I just could not control recoil well and get multiple rounds on target quickly. I had signed up for a defensive carbine and pistol course from Wolf-Fire Firearms Training and decided to try the C-Clamp again. I used it throughout the class and it really grew on me. Now, this is the primary method I use for shooting the AR.

    The video below gives some perspective on the “thumb over bore” and explains my position on it well. I agree with this guy 100%.

     

  • 5 Morale Boosting Foods With a Long Shelf Life

    5 Morale Boosting Foods With a Long Shelf Life

     

    Any high-stress disastrous event will create a definite morale issue for most people. The absence of normal life comforts combined with potential life-altering conditions will wreak havoc on people – especially children. Having as part of any food storage system some specific foods to boost – even just a little – the morale of friends and family is simple and inexpensive.

    Here are 5 morale-boosting foods with a long shelf-life:

    Jelly Beans – Jelly Beans provide an explosive amount of flavors as well as a sugar rush. Shelf Life: 1-2 years.

    M&M’s – Chocolate is one of the most popular comfort foods. M&M’s themselves are a popular favorite. Shelf Life: 1 year

    Starburst – A fruity fix when times are tough? Starburst fit the bill perfectly. Shelf Life: 2-3 years.

    Peppermint Hard Candy – Long lasting with an intense peppermint flavor. Shelf Life: 12-18 months.

    MRE Cakes – Candy is great but MRE cakes will provide a smile when it seems impossible. Shelf Life: up to 7 years.

    It would be recommended to store all of these foods – even the MRE desserts –  in a vacuum sealed bag via a Foodsaver to extend life as far as possible.

    While there is not a food in existence that can fix property destruction and heal wounds – the mental anguish often associated with disasters may be lessened just a bit – with morale boosting foods.

    What’s your favorite?

    Rourke

     

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    Recommended reading for every Patriot? 

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  • Survival & Preparedness Books, Guides, & Manuals

    Survival & Preparedness Books, Guides, & Manuals

    NOTE: The following is a duplicate of a page found HERE on this website. Thinking many may have missed it, it is being provided below……

     

    Here is a collection of survival & preparedness books, magazines, guides, manuals, and other documents.

    These are available as a FREE download, however, there is no guarantee how long any will be available.

     

    American Survival Guide – Mar 1988

    American Survival Guide – Apr 1988

    American Survival Guide – Jun 1988

    American Survival Guide – Jul 1988

    American Survival Guide – Aug 1988

    American Survival Guide – Sept 1988

    American Survival Guide – Oct 1988

    American Survival Guide – Nov 1988

    American Survival Guide – Dec 1988

    American Survival Guide – Jan 1989

    American Survival Guide – Mar 1989

    American Survival Guide – Apr 1989

    American Survival Guide – Jun 1989

    American Survival Guide – Jul 1989

    American Survival Guide – Aug 1989

    American Survival Guide – Sept 1989

    American Survival Guide – Dec 1989

    American Survival Guide – Jan 1990

    American Survival Guide – Mar 1990

    American Survival Guide – Apr 1990

    American Survival Guide – May 1990

    American Survival Guide – Aug 1990

    American Survival Guide – Oct 1990

    American Survival Guide – Nov 1990

    American Survival Guide – Dec 1990

    American Survival Guide – Jul 1991

    American Survival Guide – Aug 1991

    American Survival Guide – Oct 1991

    American Survival Guide – Jan 1992

    American Survival Guide – Feb 1992

    American Survival Guide – Apr 1992

    American Survival Guide – DOOMSDAY Spring 2015

    American Survival Guide – GEAR GUIDE Fall 2015

    American Survival Guide – Jan 2015

    American Survival Guide – Feb 2015

    American Survival Guide – Mar 2015

    American Survival Guide – Apr 2015

    American Survival Guide – May 2015

    American Survival Guide – June 2015

    American Survival Guide – July 2015

    American Survival Guide – Aug 2015

    American Survival Guide – Sept/Oct 2015

    American Survival Guide – Nov 2015

    American Survival Guide – Dec 2015

     

    Modern Survival Magazine

    Modern Survival – Oct/Nov 2001

     

     

    Recoil Magazine

    RECOIL – Jan/Feb 2015

    RECOIL – Mar/Apr 2015

    RECOIL – May/Jun 2015

    RECOIL – Jul/Aug 2015

    RECOIL – Sept/Oct 2015

    RECOIL – Nov/Dec 2015

    RECOIL – Jan/Feb 2016

    RECOIL – Mar/Apr 2016

     

    Self Reliance Illustrated

    Issue #1

    Issue #2

    Issue #3

    Issue #4

    Issue #5

    BOOKS/GUIDES

    1881 Household Cyclopedia

    American Handgunner Magazine – SURVIVE SPECIAL ED – Fall/Winter 2014

    American Warrior Magazine

    America’s Survival Guide

    Are You Ready?

    A Long Term Survival Guide

    Blackout Survival Guide

    Boston’s Gun Bible

    Effect’s of Nuclear Weapons

    FEMA Nuclear Survival

    FM 21-11 First Aid For Soldiers

    FM 21-150 COMBATIVES

    FM 21-75 Combat Skills of The Soldier

    FM 21-76 US Army Survival Manual

    FM 21-76-1 Survival, Evasion, and Recovery

    FM 3-4 Tactics, Techniques, Procedures for NBC Warfare

    FM 3-5 NBC Contamination

    FM 90-10-1 Combined Arms Operations in Urban Terrain

    Foxfire Vol. 1

    Foxfire Vol. 2

    Foxfire Vol. 3

    Foxfire Vol. 4

    Foxfire Vol. 5

    Hand Dug Wells

    How To Prepare For Any Disaster

    How to Survive the Collapse of Civilization

    Improvised Lock Picks

    Infinite Dangers

    Last Minute Survival Secrets

    LDS Preparedness Manual

    Living Ready Magazine – Summer 2013

    Military Hand to hand Combat Guide

    Military Operations On Urbanized Terrain

    Modern Survival Retreat

    Nuclear War Survival Skills

    Nuclear Weapons Effects

    Off The Grid

    Prepper & Shooter Magazine #2

    Prepping For Pennies

    Ranger Handbook

    Ready for Anything: The Ultimate No B.S. Survival Manual

    Successful Home Defense

    Survival Cabins

    Survival Guns

    Survival Medicine

    Survival Shotgun

    Survival TACFIT

    Survive Any Disaster

    Survive the Collapse

    Survive The End of Days

    The 5 Most Crucial Components of Any Serious Survival Plan

    The Medical NBC Battlebook

    The Preppers Playbook

    The Scoundrels Guide to Survival

    The Survival Handbook

    The Urban Prepper

    The Zombie Survival Guide

    Total Resistance

    Ultimate Survival Skills

    Wilderness Survival Skills

    You Will Survival Doomsday

    Your Basement Fallout Shelter

     

  • Retreat Arrival Checklist

    Retreat Arrival Checklist

     

    I’ve been asked several times about when something happens and people first arrive at a retreat location. Questions usually come up regarding who does what and when. Granted situation details will dictate quite a bit but having some form of checklist will help remember things, decrease stress, and allow people to use their brains for thinking.

    Here is one example that is broken up into days for the first week or so.

    Day 1 Checklist – first 24 hours upon arrival:

    • Injuries? Check and treat.
    • Gather facts from all group members
      • What has been seen and where?
      • What has been heard? Source?
      • Make sure everyone is informed and educated on all information.
      • Notes should be taken to reference later rather than relying on memory.
    • Determine potential threats if any? If so set up security watch right away.
    • Get someone on commo to gain intelligence/information. This includes internet/radio/TV/social media/Ham/CB
    • Inventory all supplies brought to retreat by members to add to inventory lists
    • How much combined cash/silver/gold is on hand?
    • If safe – formulate a supply run(s) to purchase additional supplies while the ability still exists(see “Supply Run Checklist” – coming soon)
    • Get an inventory of all fuel.
      • How much is in each vehicle in gallons?
      • How much is currently stored?
      • Is it safe to go out for more? If so go get some. Get back quickly.
      • How much propane?
      • How much charcoal?
    • If electricity is still on get all rechargeable batteries into a charger.
    • Water running? If so fill all available containers.
    • Set up sleeping arrangements at a minimum on a temporary basis.
    • Cook a large, filling dinner – important for moral

     

    Day 2-3 Checklist:

    • House rules – all determined by property owner
    • Get pet’s situated that were brought to the retreat
    • Everyone has communication methods on their body if they venture away from retreat more than “normal voice distance”
    • Set up Security/Patrol schedules
    • Get solar systems set up and running
    • Set up potable water dispenser
    • Based on current condition install light and sound discipline
    • Set up water filtration methods
    • Set up alternative bathroom facilities
    • Set up bathroom/sanitation schedule
    • Camouflage driveway entrance  
    • Set up medical station for self-treatment of minor cuts, burns, and scrapes
    • Determine any specific projects that need attention and seek volunteers/assign duties
    • Reach out to family and friends  – OPSEC!!!!

     

    Day 3-7 Checklist:

    • Determine outward patrol location and schedule
    • Set up LPOP areas
    • Set up defensive position and assign members to areas
    • Review communication protocols between members in defensive situations
    • Determine procedure for dealing with strangers/approaching people
    • Gather and set up rain gear/clothing
    • Doublecheck food inventory to determine how many days available for group

     

    Any other suggestions? Thoughts?

    Rourke

  • Prepare

    Prepare

    So – you’re a prepper?

    First off you will be pleased to know that you are not a nut case. Feel better?

    Although preparedness is becoming more widespread mainstream preppers are still often looked at strangely by those that are non-believers. The vast majority of people today go through life with little concern with what the future holds.

    If you are reading this then your opinion is likely similar to mine – those folks are wrong…..dead wrong. Bad stuff happens to good people every single day. Since we are good people and live in this world it seems pretty logical to take precautions in case something were to happen to disrupt our lives. No one thinks it’s crazy to buy car insurance.

    One of the statements I have heard from family members and friends that find out I am a prepper is…..”You are just paranoid because nothing’s ever going to happen.” If you haven’t heard it yet get ready because it’s coming.

    If you are preparing now or looking into it no doubt there is something on your mind that lead you here. So – why prepare? Maybe the better question is “What might happen?”

    Here is a list:

    power outage

    severe winter storm

    hurricane

    tornado

    severe drought

    tsunami

    grid failure

    crime wave

    terrorism

    food shortage

    pandemic

    flood

    fire

    unemployment

    EMP attack

    solar flare

    inflation

    hyperinflation

    economic collapse

    nuclear war

    terrorism

    earthquake

    nuclear power plant meltdown

    gas/fuel shortage

    overpopulation

    martial law

    hurricanepreparedness

    Granted some of these are MUCH more likely to happen than others but the fact remains that the world is a dangerous place. It is not insanity to prepare for what might happen – it is a responsibility.

    Everyone’s living situation is different. There are geographical differences, climate specifics as well as economic considerations. Someone living in Maine may very well prep for a grid down event in the middle of winter. That would certainly be different than someone else who lives in Arizona in the desert and prepares for an economic collapse and water shortage.

    In summary, the decisions are your own and you should feel proud of yourself for taking responsibility for you and your family. It doesn’t matter if you are a senior citizen or just graduated high school – hopefully, the preparing that you do never pays off and no major life-changing event occurs. But if it does – you will be ready.

    Take care –

    Rourke

  • Top 12 Barter Items To Stock Up On Now

    Top 12 Barter Items To Stock Up On Now

    For those anticipating a complete breakdown of the economy, “bartering” is something that should be planned. Before diving into the list I’ll mention a couple things that generally stir up controversy.

    First – the bartering of firearms and ammunition generally creates a huge argument. Why? The thought behind this is you’ll trade a firearm and/or ammunition and the recipient will turn it around and use it to take all your stuff. Sure – it’s possible. It’s also possible that the trade could be conducted safely and with minimal risk.

    Second – the bartering of food creates almost as much craziness and the previous. Some people scoff at the idea of bartering food as they believe that you’re trading away your very salvation. I totally disagree as you would not and should not conduct the trade unless there were sufficient stores of food which to do so safely.

    Third – discussions on silver and gold as barter items create enemies as opinions from most fall on either end of the YES/NO spectrum. I’m avoiding that here – and would appreciate it if you would as well.

    On to the list:

    Top 12 Barter Items To Stock Up On Now

    1. SPAM – Available in numerous flavorings and packed with valuable protein. There is little doubt it would be highly desired in any kind of a food shortage.  It is pre-packaged in smaller, tradable quantities.

    2. Toilet Paper – explanation not needed.

    3. Candles – Candles provide those in need with light, fire, and warmth. While very inexpensive now the demand and corresponding value in more desperate times will rise dramatically.

    4. Alcohol – While some may find the inclusion of drinkable alcohol morally wrong it remains a fact that a shortage of supply will increase its value.

    5. Flashlight & Batteries – Grid down the night will be…well…very dark. There are very inexpensive LED flashlights that run on a single AA alkaline battery. Perfect for bartering.

    6.  Matches – Matches packed in 32 count boxes will be worth their weight in gold. Small in size these boxes may be a form of currency at some point.

    7. First Aid Supplies – Triple antibiotic ointment, band-aids, antibiotics, etc. will be very valuable. Purchasing multiples of small general purpose first aid kits would be an excellent pre-packaged barter item. Cough/multi-symptom flu medicine during seasonal sickness times extremely valuable.

    8. Cordage – A variety of cordage from twine to rope would be beneficial. If I had to choose one type it would be para-cord due to its cost and strength.

    9. Bar Soap – Bar soap goes a long way and does a great job cleaning the body. Extremely inexpensive combined with a great shelf life soap is a fantastic barter item.

    10. Feminine Hygiene Products – ’nuff said.

    11. Water Filters – Individual water filters such as the LifeStraw and Sawyer Mini Water Filter will be extremely valuable should clean running water cease. Larger family-size filters such as the Big Berkey and the LifeStraw Family.

    12. Hard Candy – Something so simple will have high demand on the barter market. What an incredible treat to have – or get for someone you love – when it is no longer manufactured.

    While this list suggests these 12 items as high-value bartering tools they are not alone. There are countless valuable items that could take the place of any of those listed above.

    What other items would you suggest?

  • The “NEW” First 100 Things To Disappear After The SHTF

    The “NEW” First 100 Things To Disappear After The SHTF

    The original “Top 100 Things To Disappear After a Disaster” list has been passed around the internet for a number of years. It remains a viable list of barter items and accurate in every way. Due to the list being fairly old and times have changed a few prepper friends and I have pulled together and updated it. While many if not most of the original items remain – some changes were necessary.

     

    The “NEW” First 100 Things To Disappear After The SHTF

    1. Generators
    Prices can range from a few hundred dollars to thousands. Lots of fuel must be stored(away from home).

    2. Water Filters/Purifiers
    The Sawyer Mini Water Filter is highly recommended and widely available. For higher usage volume check out the Sawyer Bucket Kit.

    3. Zippo Lighters, butane, Bic lighters

    4. Seasoned Firewood
    (About $100 per cord; wood takes 6 – 12 mos. to become dried, for home uses.)

    5. Lamp Oil, Wicks, Lamps
    (First choice: Buy CLEAR oil. If scarce, stockpile ANY!)

    6. Tents

    7. Guns, Ammunition, Pepper Spray, Knives, Clubs, Bats and Slingshots
    Any means of defense will be highly sought after.

    8. Manual Can Openers
    These can be picked up for as little as $1.00 each.

    9. Sweeteners such as sugar and honey.

    10. Rice – Beans – Wheat
    (White rice is now around $20.oo – 50# bag @ Sam’s Club, pack in Mylar with oxygen absorbers)

    11. Vegetable oil (for cooking)
    (Without it food burns/must be boiled, etc.)

    12. Charcoal and Lighter fluid
    These will disappear QUICKLY post-event.

    13. Water containers
    Any container that can hold water. Water will need to be stored AND transported.

    14. Propane Heaters
    This includes the larger Mr. Heater models and smaller versions.

    15. Grain Grinder (Non-electric)

    16. Propane Cylinders

    17. Silver/Gold

    18. Buckets

    19. Baby Supplies: Diapers/formula/ointments/aspirin, etc

    20. Laundry Supplies for Manual Use
    Washboards, plungers, and also compact washer machines

    21. Cookstoves
    (Propane, Coleman, and Kerosene)

    22. Vitamins
    Important due to changed diets.

    23. Cough drops

    24. Feminine Hygiene/Haircare/Skin products

    25. Thermal underwear
    (Tops and bottoms)

    26. Bow saws, axes and hatchets and Wedges (also, honing oil)

    27. Aluminum foil Reg. and Heavy. Duty
    (Great Cooking and Barter Item – available at Dollar Store)

    28. Gasoline containers
    (Plastic or Metal)

    29. Garbage bags
    Emphasize 13 gallon and larger 30+ gallon sizes. Impossible to have too many.

    30. Toilet Paper, Kleenex, paper towel

    31. Milk – Powdered and Condensed
    (Shake liquid every 3 to 4 months.)

    32. Garden seeds
    Heirloom seeds only. Seed banks can be purchased for under $20.

    33. Clothes pins/line/hangers

    34. Pet food

    35. Clothes – underwear, socks, pants, shirts, jackets, hats

    36. Fire extinguishers – such as this one

    37. First aid kits

    38. Batteries (all sizes…buy furthest-out for Expiration Dates)
    Prioritize AA/AAA and CR123 types

    39. Garlic, spices and vinegar, baking supplies

    40. women’s makeup

    41. Flour, yeast, and salt

    42. Matches
    (“Strike Anywhere” preferred. Boxed, wooden matches will go first.)

    43. Writing paper/pads/notebook/pencils/solar calculators

    44. Insulated ice chests
    (good for keeping items from freezing in Wintertime)

    45. Work boots, belts, Levis and durable shirts

    46. Flashlights/Light Sticks and torches, “No.76 Dietz” Lanterns

    47. Prescription medications/insulin/syringes

    48. Plastic Garbage Cans
    (great for storage, water, transporting – if with wheels)

    49. Shampoo, Toothbrush/toothpaste, Mouthwash/floss, nail clippers, etc

    50. Cast iron cookware (sturdy, efficient)

    51. Fishing supplies/tools

    52. Mosquito repellent

    53. Duct tape

    54. Tarps/stakes/twine/nails/rope/spikes

    55. Candles

    56. Laundry detergent (Liquid)

    57. Backpacks and Duffle bags

    58. Garden tools and supplies – manual

    59. Scissors, fabrics and sewing supplies

    60. Canned Fruits, Veggies, Soups, stews, etc.

    61. Bleach
    (plain, NOT scented: 4 to 6% sodium hypochlorite)

    62. Canning supplies (Jars/lids/wax)

    63. Knives and Sharpening tools: files, stones, steel

    64. Bicycles…Tires/tubes/pumps/chains, etc.

    65. Sleeping bags and blankets/pillows/mats

    66. Saline solution for contacts

    67. Board Games Cards, Dice, cards

    68. d-Con Rat poison, MOUSE PRUFE II, Roach Killer

    69. Mousetraps, Ant traps and cockroach magnets

    70. Paper plates/cups/utensils (stock up, folks…)

    71. Baby Wipes, oils, waterless and Anti-bacterial soap
    (saves a lot of water)

    72. Rain gear, rubberized boots, emergency rain poncho’s, etc.

    73. Shaving supplies
    (razors and creams, talc, after shave)

    74. Hand pumps and siphons
    (for water and for fuels)

    75. Soy sauce, vinegar, bouillons/gravy/soup base

    76. Reading glasses

    77. Chocolate/Cocoa/Tang/Punch (water enhancers)

    78. Rain barrel kits(valve assembly)

    79. Woolen clothing, scarves/ear-muffs/mittens

    80. US Army Survival Manual FM 21-76

    81. Plastic sheeting for insulating windows and shelter creation

    82. Food storage products such as freeze dried food/buckets/pouches

    83. Walkie-Talkies/ham radios/CB radio

    84. Socks, Underwear, T-shirts, etc. (extras)

    85. Lumber (all types)

    86. Wagons and carts
    (for transport to and from open Flea markets)

    87. Cots and Inflatable Mattresses (for extra guests)

    88. Gloves: Work/warming/gardening, etc.

    89. Solar panel kits – small for charging batteries and devices

    90. Screen Patches, glue, nails, screws, nuts, and bolts

    91. Teas

    92. Coffee

    93. Cigarettes

    94. Wine/Liquors (for bribes, medicinal, etc.)

    95. Paraffin wax

    96. Glue, nails, nuts, bolts, screws, etc.

    97. Chewing gum/candies

    98. Air guns and bb’s/pellets/CO2 cartridges

    99. Hats and cotton neckerchiefs

    100. Goats/chickens

    SHTF, prepper, preparedness, barter, SHTF, top 100 things to disappear,

     

  • Rourke’s Recommendations

    Rourke’s Recommendations

     

    Every Thursday I recommend a few things such as movies, books, and an assortment of gear – all kinds of stuff. Some of these are related to survival & preparedness – while others are just stuff I like. Most are on Amazon but not all.

    So – for this week……here is my list:

    Books:

    Lights Out – David Crawford

    How to Make Money Homesteading

    The Survival Group Blueprint

    How To make Money Homesteading

    The Ultimate Prepper’s Guide

     

    Movies/TV:

    Field of Dreams

    The Sandlot

    Mrs. Doubtfire

    Uncle Buck

    Fletch

     

    Gear:

    Fiocchi 9mm 115-gr FMJ Ammo/box – $10.71

    Federal Lake City 5.56 Ammo – 20/box – $5.91

    Ka-Bar BK-22 Becker Outdoorsman Knife

    Molon Labe T-Shirt – $6.98

    Nagoya NA-771 15.6″ Antenna for Baofeng Radios

    *     *     *     *     *     *     *

    SHTF, Fight Like a Girl, prepper fiction, book, kindle, paperback

  • Top 10 Prepper Fiction Books You Must Read

    Top 10 Prepper Fiction Books You Must Read

     

    Post-apocalyptic fiction is extremely popular right now. There are many choices out there and since discovering Audible books I’ve read many.

    Prepper fiction is just that – fiction. With that said all of these books provide a multitude of scenario’s to consider. This can assist in pre-planning and developing contingencies. So, beyond entertainment, these books can be very useful in preparing for whatever may await us in the future.

    Top 10 Must Read Post Apocalyptic Books:

    1. 299 Days by Glen Tate – 299 Days: The Preparation, the first book in the 299 Days series, depicts the inner struggles Grant must face as he exists in a social system he recognizes as unsustainable and on the verge of collapse, but one in which he has built his life around. What begins as a return to his roots, self-sufficiency, and independence, becomes a full-blown move to prepare for what may come.

    2. Going Home: A Novel(The Survivalist Series Book 1) – When Morgan Carter’s car breaks down 250 miles from his home, he figures his weekend plans are ruined. But things are about to get much, much worse: the country’s power grid has collapsed. There is no electricity, no running water, no Internet, and no way to know when normalcy will be restored—if it ever will be. An avid survivalist, Morgan takes to the road with his prepper pack on his back.

    3. The Survivalist: Frontier Justice Book 1 – The Superpox-99 virus has wiped out nearly the entire human race. To stay alive, U.S. Deputy Marshal Mason Raines must forage for food, water, and gasoline while outgunning those who seek to take advantage of the apocalyptic anarchy. Together with his giant Irish wolfhound, Bowie, he aligns with survivors of the town of Boone in a life and death struggle against a gang of violent criminals. With each deadly encounter, Mason is forced to accept his place as one of the nation’s few remaining lawmen. In a world now populated by escaped convicts, paranoid mutants, and government hit squads, his only hope to save the townspeople is to enforce his own brand of frontier justice.

    4. What’s Left of My World: A Story of a Family’s Survival – Lauren Russell often wondered why her father had been so adamant about teaching her skills that most other fathers wouldn’t even consider teaching their daughters. Ever since she was little, she had been taught how to live and survive outdoors, and how to use firearms to protect herself and those around her. Some of the training had been a bit extreme. Or had it been?

    5. Fight Like a Man: A Post-Apocalyptic Thriller(The SHTF Series Book 1) – As a prepper, Grayson Rowan was prepared for almost anything; anything other than being totally alone when the sh*t hits the fan. While he sat back and watched the United States rattle swords with Korea, play chicken with Russia, and strong-arm China, he felt sure if the lights went out, that he and his family would be ready and safe–whether it was due to a natural disaster or a man-made event. They had everything they needed at their homestead. What he wasn’t prepared for, was his family not being home if it ever happened.

    6. Locker Nine: Book One of the Locker Nine Series – Grace’s dad taught her survival, self-defense, and shooting, then sent her away to college hoping she’d never need those skills. All he wanted was to give her a fighting chance if the world fell apart. Then it did. Near the end of Grace’s freshmen year, coordinated terror attacks take place at dozens of locations around the country – including on the campus of Grace’s university.

    7. The Borrowed World – Jim Powell thought he was ready. He was a regular guy who traveled a lot for work and hated every second he was away from his young family. But when ISIS operatives unleashed a coordinated attack on America’s infrastructure, his entire world shattered. The electrical grid collapsed, communication networks were damaged, critical bridges and dams were destroyed, and major fuel refineries have gone up in massive fiery clouds. Now, with an Executive Order halting fuel sales to the public, Jim Powell finds himself in a terrifying predicament. He’s trapped hundreds of miles away from his family, and with thousands of stranded travelers and scarce law enforcement across the country, the miles between Jim and his family become a brutal gauntlet where the rules of a civilized society no longer apply.

    8. Patriots: Surviving the Coming Collapse – America faces a full-scale socioeconomic collapse—the stock market plummets, hyperinflation cripples commerce and the mounting crisis passes the tipping point. Practically overnight, the fragile chains of supply and high-technology infrastructure fall, and wholesale rioting and looting grip every major city. As hordes of refugees and looters pour out of the cities, a small group of friends living in the Midwest desperately tries to make their way to a safe-haven ranch in northern Idaho. The journey requires all their skill and training since communication, commerce, transportation and law enforcement have all disappeared. Once at the ranch, the group fends off vicious attacks from outsiders and then looks to join other groups that are trying to restore true Constitutional law to the country.

    9. EMP: Equipping Modern Patriots – EMP: Equipping Modern Patriots is a harrowing story of survival following the destruction of the electric grid and nearly every electronic device in the country. Can you imagine a world with no phones, no TV, no internet, and no way to access your bank account? Without the electric grid, there would be no lights, no heating or air conditioning in your house, no public water, and the sewer would likely back up into your home. Without modern vehicles or interstate trucking, the supermarkets would quickly run out of food and supplies. Unprepared, the government would be helpless to feed the masses and maintain order. Our humanity is questioned when the survival of the fittest becomes reality.

    10. Lights Out –  Lights Out chronicles the challenges of Mark “Karate Man” Turner when the lights go out over most of the free world. He must find in himself the ability to unite his family, friends, and neighbors if any of them are to survive the harsh reality that everyday life becomes when the veneer of civilization is stripped away.

     

    This is my personal list and there are numerous great books out there that could easily have made it. Having some other suggestions? Leave them in the comments.

  • Rourke’s Recommendations

    Rourke’s Recommendations

     

    Every Thursday I recommend a few things such as movies, books, and an assortment of gear – all kinds of stuff. Some of these are related to survival & preparedness – while others are just stuff I like. Most are on Amazon but not all.

    So – for this week……here is my list:

    Books:

    Strategic Relocation

    Going Home – Book One

    Surviving The Economic Collapse

    Nuclear War Survival Skills

    Urban Emergency Survival Plan

     

    Movies/TV:

    Blade Runner – the original

    Heroes – The Complete Collection

    Surface: The Complete Series

    Under the Dome: The Complete Series

    Fringe: The Complete Series

     

    Gear:

    Vortex StrikeFire II Red Dot Optic

    HoloSun Micro Red Dot Model HS403A

    Ozark Flip up Aluminum Sights

    Wood Burning Camp Stove – nice

    Mini Alcohol Stove

     

    *     *     *     *     *     *     *

    SHTF, Fight Like a Girl, prepper fiction, book, kindle, paperback

  • Rourke’s Recommendations

    Rourke’s Recommendations

     

    Every Thursday I recommend a few things such as movies, books, and an assortment of gear – all kinds of stuff. Some of these are related to survival & preparedness – while others are just stuff I like. Most are on Amazon but not all.

    So – for this week……here is my list:

    Books:

    Fight Like a Man: A Post Apocalyptic Thriller – Book One

    Three Days From Home

    Training for Sudden Violence

    Tools for Survival

    Survival Hacks

     

    Movies/TV:

     

    Terra Nova

    Invasion

    Colony Season One

    Surface: The Complete Series

     

    Gear:

    Bushnell Drop Zone 1-4X AR Optic

    Esbit Stove

    OUTON Portable Woodburning Stove

    Portable EDC Survival Kit

    *     *     *     *     *     *     *

    SHTF, Fight Like a Girl, prepper fiction, book, kindle, paperback

  • 5 Prepper Items To Take On Vacation

    5 Prepper Items To Take On Vacation

     

    How many of us head out to the beach, the mountains – the lake – and wonder the same question: “What if something happens and we’re not at home with all our preps?” Tough situation and the answers vary really depending on the specifics of the vacation.  Flying can really restrict items to be taken. The state traveled to – and all those traveling through getting there can impede certain items from being brought along.

    Firearms are not mentioned as personal security should be a given. Follow all state and local laws. With that said here are 5 prepper items to take on vacation:

    Identification and Contact Information – Print out papers with contact information for friends and family. If there is access to a laminator. cards can be made. Additional information such as home address, car, and medical insurance should be carried. Copies of all drivers licenses, social security cards, and insurance cards can also be made using a simple copying machine.

    Cash – Cash is king and should you vacation location lose power cash will be extremely valuable. How much to take? At least a few hundred dollars with bills running from small to larger denominations.

    Perscription Medications/Spare Glasses – Don’t forget critical prescriptions. The last thing needed when fun is desired is to have a flare up of that Bohemian Devil Rash you contracted a couple years earlier.   If you depend on glasses to see where you are going bring along AT LEAST one extra pair. From personal experience, this has worked out well for me several times.

    Toilet Paper – Yup – a roll or two of toilet paper could provide serious relief should that jaunt out in the middle of nowhere end up being the same time the Mexican buffet the night before decides to reappear. Nature calls…..whenever it wants.

    Flashlight – Vacations tend to involve hotels, cabins, and such that we are just not familiar with. Having a flashlight to navigate the strange hallways and coffee tables may prevent that excruciating shin smack. If the method of travel does not allow a flashlight being taken, one should be purchased locally. They are inexpensive, but oh so useful. Check out these zipper pull lights – very handy.

    The list of items to have while on vacation is nearly endless. So many factors have to be considered. The five above is simply a common sense approach leaning towards most vacation destinations and activities.

    Anything specific you always take along?

  • Rourke’s Recommendations

    Rourke’s Recommendations

     

    Every Thursday I recommend a few things such as movies, books, and an assortment of gear – all kinds of stuff. Some of these are related to survival & preparedness – while others are just stuff I like. Most are on Amazon but not all.

    So – for this week……here is my list:

    Books:

    Survival Theory

    Countdown to Preparedness

    Zombie Preparedness 101

    Survival Hacks

    Guide to Survival Knots

     

    Movies/TV:

    Funny Farm

    Raiders of the Lost Ark – a classic

    Looper

    Spotlight

    The Magnificent Seven

     

    Gear:

    Nite Ize Squeeze Zipper Light

    Olight PL-Mini Weapons Light

    Anker Elite Dual USB Charger

    Bushnell Drop Zone-223 Reticle Riflescope

    Ultimate Rifle Build Scope Mount

    *     *     *     *     *     *     *

    SHTF, Fight Like a Girl, prepper fiction, book, kindle, paperback

  • One Example of the BOB/GHB

    One Example of the BOB/GHB

     

    All of us have some type of bug out bag or get home bag in our vehicle – right? The video below shows one example with a great description as to what is included and why. This is a minimalist version of what many people put together. Often larger kits are upwards of 40-80 pounds. My preference is a medium sized kit no more than 30 pounds give or take.

    There are pros and cons to smaller and larger kits. The most obvious pro’s with smaller kits they are lighter allowing for faster travel on foot and likely attract less attention. Larger kits weigh more thus slowing progress, however, they provide more supplies which could be important.

    Everyone has to build their kit for specifics that only they know. Weather, geography, fitness level – these are but a few criteria that should be considered.

    On with the video from 21st Century Prepper……….

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  • Review: 10,000mAh Solar Power Bank Charger

    Review: 10,000mAh Solar Power Bank Charger

     

    This will be a fairly short and simple review. I’ve been using this 10,000mAh solar power bank since November of 2016. It works and works well. Numerous trips including my jaunt down the Virginia Creeper Trail I’ve used this external battery pack to keep my cell phone topped off. Communications with family, being able to take pictures and videos, as well as keeping in touch with others is important.

    This solar power bank can also charge other batteries for things like flashlights and walkie-talkies.

    With 10,000mAh of capacity, it can charge most modern smartphones at least twice or keep it topped off for hours and hours.

    The solar function is primarily for topping off the unit or charging it fully if it is left in the sun and not used. It takes days to charge it via the sun so understand that is not a primary means for charging. The 10,000mAh solar power bank is meant to be charged at home – then taken on the go.

    Recently I ran the power bank almost dead and left it outside for several days. It did eventually charge completely and survived at least two days of downpours and also one night of freezing temperatures. So – after a year of use I can fully endorse and recommend it.

    For more information click HERE.

     

    PICTURES

    [slideshow_deploy id=’9628′]

     

  • 30 Christmas Gifts for Prepper’s

    30 Christmas Gifts for Prepper’s

     

    Have a prepper on your Christmas list? Here are a few ideas within different price ranges on what to get them. Forget the socks and the ties…..get them something they will really like.

    Merry Christmas!!

     

    $50+

    Cold Steel Recon Tanto Knife – exquisite

    Bushnell TRS-25 AR Red Dot Optic – a favorite of mine

    Armasight Spark NV Monocular

    Bushnell Equinox Night Vision

    Maxpedition Condor-II Backpack

     

    $25 – $50

    Baofeng UV-5R Duel Band Two-Way Radio – probably the most common radio used among preppers. Not the best – but good to start with.

    Tecsun PL-360 AM/FM/Shortwave – listen for information locally and around the world.

    Nebo iProTec 190 lumen Weapons Light – budget friendly light providing 190 lumens via LED diode.

    Helotex G2 Flashlight – my favorite light. Uses AA or CR123 batteries.

    North American CAT Tourniquet – this is THE recommended tourniquet.

    326 Piece Hard Case First Aid Kit – nice and very good to have around.

     

     

    $10 – $25

    Mora Companion Outdoor Knife  – super sharp and handy knife, the Mora is legendary for being an incredible value.

    CIMA Survival Knife – excellent survival knife with a full tang blade. A clone of an ESEE costing around $100. Bargain.

    SOG Responder Bag – have it in the trunk….just in case.

    Tac-Mag Gun Magnet – holds up to 25 pounds and allows gun mounting almost anywhere.

    Midland 22 Channel FRS/GMRA Walkie-Talkies Set – great 1-2 mile communications tool.

    Tenergy CR123 Lithium-ion Battery Pack/12 – Great price on these high capacity and powerful batteries.

    Survival Garden 15,000 Heirloom Seed Bank – great pack of seeds for growing food.

    MTM AR/M16 Magazine Case – holds 15 AR magazines – ready to go.

    Sawyer Mini Water Filter – the prepper’s water filter.

    4 Pack Mechanical Yo Yo’s Fishing Reels – automatic fishing. Great tool for gathering food while doing other tasks.

    Spartan AR Wall Mount – pretty cool.

     

    $1 – $10

    VISM Dump Pouch – economical “catch-all” bag

    OD Green Vinyl US Flag Stickers – perfect for mounting on AR just above the magazine.

    Lucas Gun Oil – formulated for high performance in all firearms.

    Sawyer Mini Water Filter Bucket Kit – adapts the Sawyer for bucket use. On Sale – $9.78

    Red Dawn – the classic survival movie

    Classic Pocket Survival Tool – perfect stocking stuffer!

    Folding Camp Grill – super portable and useful.

    Israeli Battle Dressing – should be in every back and vehicle.

     

     

    …….and for those wishing to buy me a Christmas present – here are 10 ideas!!

    Schrade SCHF38 Frontier Knife

    MTM AC4C Ammo Crate

    Streamlight TLR-1 Weapons Light

    Paratus 3 Day Operators Backpack

    ATN Thor Thermal Optic

    Raptor Whisper Air Rifle .177 caliber

    Barnett Recruit Recurve Crossbow

    Condor Modular Chest Rig

    Trijicon ACOG 4×32 Scope

    Vortex Strikefire II Red Dot Optic

    ….gee….I’m not hard to buy for.

     

    Take care all!!

    Rourke

  • Rourke’s Recommendations

    Rourke’s Recommendations

     

    Every Thursday I recommend a few things such as movies, books, and an assortment of gear – all kinds of stuff. Some of these are related to survival & preparedness – while others are just stuff I like. Most are on Amazon but not all.

    So – for this week……here is my list:

    Books:

    Week-by-Week Vegetable Gardener’s Handbook

    EMP-Hardened Radio Communications

    Nuclear War Survival Skills

    Survivalist Family

     

    Movies/TV:

    Goodbye World

    Dragon Day

    Remnants

    Electronic Armageddon

     

    Gear:

    TACT Bivy Emergergeny Sleeping Bag

    Outcast Survival Fishing Kit

    TUFF 1911 5 Magazine Pouch

    GLOCK 10 Magazine Pouch – OEM

    *     *     *     *     *     *     *