In 1982 the movie “First Blood” was released. It was a movie about a Viet Nam veteran, John Rambo, who is an ex-green beret. He is chased by a small town Sherriff who drew first blood. It was an action movie but by today’s standards would be tame. Rambo had a knife. A big knife. This knife was patterned after the Viet Nam era survival knife that was issued to flyers. It had a hollow handle with a survival kit in it. My Viet Nam era knife is a little different. It is much smaller than Rambos. His was huge. It had a 9 inch blade and was almost 14 inches long! Mine is a Camillus 5 inch blade. Anyway, between the two I would choose the smaller of the two. The Rambo blade was made of lesser steel and because of the hollow handle, had horrible balance and a limited tang.
Anatomy of a fixed blade.
Point
Spine
Edge
Cheek
Fuller
Guard
Handle
Pommel/Butt
The Tip or Point of a blade is simple; it’s the pointy end of the blade. You should know that by now, but I won’t blame you. Tip and point can be used interchangeably but may be used separately to describe two different aspects of the anatomy. The “point” being literally the point where the spine and edge meet and the “tip” referring to a small section at the front of the blade that leads up to the point.
The Cheek or Face of a blade refers to each side of the blade, often used to refer to the section separate from the grind but can be used to refer to each side of the blade, including the grind.
The Spine of a blade refers to the dull, unsharpened back of a blade, the opposite side of the edge. Double edged blades (daggers) do not have a spine but most knives found in the home or for outdoor use will have a spine.
A Fuller or Blood Groove is a decorative feature that runs the length or a partial length of the blade. A fuller may be used to reduce the weight of the blade but often is used purely for decoration.
The Edge is the cutting surface of a blade that extends from point to heel. It’s the sharp part!
The Tang is the stock material portion of the blade steel that extends from the blade for the purpose of attaching the handle and hardware. Tangs are an important factor when constructing a blade; they will help determine overall weight, balance and usage of the knife.
I like full tang knives. This gives the knife some weight, but also lots of strength. Rambo’s knife tended to be weak at the hidden tang handle, between the handle and the blade.
After the tang I would say that the next consideration should be weight. I live by the philosophy of SWB (size, weight, bulk). I want to keep the SWB down. In the military we had a saying, Ounces equal pounds, pounds equal pain.
I would also consider the size (bulk) of the knife. Bigger knives have more weight but are harder to conceal, and sometimes harder to use. I like about 6 to 10 inches overall. Closer to 10 for me is ideal.
The edge would be my best consideration. Serrated edges are good, and the look good, but they’re not so practical. They are a pain to sharpen and they are more for specified work. A straight edge is better for survival and combat.
Many will ask if a folding blade is better for survival than a fixed blade. Folding knives are not the best for survival. With a full tang fixed blade you will have a tool you can use to skin a deer, baton firewood, or cooking dinner. Folding knives are not as strong as fixed blades but I do carry one.
Another thing you need to be aware of is what the knife is made of. Make sure it is a high grade of steel. Usually you can guess the steel quality by the price (you get what you pay for). There are many different steels out there. I would choose D2, CPM 20CV, or M 390. These will be high end price knives. Many over $100 so be prepared for sticker shock!
Last but not least is the sheath. Make sure you can wear it or mount it in many different configurations. My military sheath is made for a belt. I’ve had to modify it to work for me. Also make sure it’s made well and doesn’t fall apart. It should have some sort of retention to it too but not something difficult to get the knife out.
It’s your choice whether you have any type of lanyard or not. Sometimes it’s good to have the option of a lanyard.
Choosing a survival knife is not too difficult. But you should have some guidelines that your knife will meet before you shell out the big bucks for gear like that. Stay sharp!
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Thursday, April 7, 2016
Reverence For Our Flag
June 14, 2016 will be Flag Day. I think it’s an important day that should be remembered with great honor. Many people in this country don’t think much about Old Glory. To me it is a great symbol of this country that should be treated with reverence. There are also some who don’t feel they need to pledge allegiance to that symbol. Our pledge of allegiance is not just about our flag it is allegiance “to the Republic for which it stands.” If someone doesn’t want to say that pledge that is their choice. But don’t try and say that it is not important. The words we say mean a lot. Our word should mean something.
Our flag is not just a piece of cloth. It is a banner which we rally under. It is something that reminds us what we are fighting for. Some in this country do not think that we need to fight for our freedom. Ronald Reagan said:
“Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.”
I believe this to be true. I also believe that you are not really a true patriot of this country if you have no reverence for our flag. I believe you have the freedom to feel any way you want about it, that’s what freedom is. But I would expect you to understand who have fought and died for the flag some are ambivalent about.
Learn the true history of this country. Learn the history of our flag. Learn the importance of fighting for liberty.
An ancient military leader and man of God said it this way:
“And it came to pass that he rent his coat; and he took a piece thereof, and wrote upon it—In memory of our God, our religion, and freedom, and our peace, our wives, and our children—and he fastened it upon the end of a pole.” Alma 46:12
This is what our flag should mean to us. Moroni then had that flag (title of liberty) put on every tower in the city. I would bet that was a lot. So that the reminder of it would always be before their eyes. Our flag is similar. It reminds me of those who fought for our liberty. Some citizens don’t care. I don’t understand that, but OK. My opinion is that to ignore this symbol is ignoring those who fought and died so that we could live as we do. It also represents those who defend this country currently. Not only our military, but I believe our first responders are part of what keeps this country free. My son is an EMT. He is willing to help someone who has been in an accident or even if someone is just having chest pains in their living room. He is there.
I think that being a citizen of this country carries a burden. To stay free we must meet certain responsibilities. One is to support our military. They go where ordered and usually don’t want to be there. Another responsibility I think is to vote. I know sometimes it doesn’t seem to make a difference or you’re just not happy with any candidates (after looong campaigns I understand). But we do matter in this process. Let’s not get into a discussion about the electoral college here… as much as I’d like to. When you vote you take a public stand. It gives you complaining rights.
Do’s and Don’ts for Displaying a Flag:
• The American Flag should never be used as part of a drapery or a table cover. Always position your flag in an appropriate, prominent place of honor. Use decorative buntings or other specifically designed red, white and blue décor items for all your more general decorative purposes.
• Hang your American Flag so that it does not touch the ground, and make sure the flag is never hung upside down.
• When hanging a flag from a pole, window or balcony, make sure that the union (the blue field with the stars) is at the highest point of the staff. This rule holds true unless the flag is purposefully being displayed at half-mast. (Flying a flag at half-mast is sometimes done during times of national mourning.)
• If you are displaying another flag along with the American flag, (such as a state or community flag) be sure that the American flag is hung in the top position.
• When displayed indoors, the American flag should be hung on the right-hand side. If the flag is on a pole, position it to the right of the speaker or the stage.
• When the flag is displayed on a wall, the flag must be hung with the blue union to the observer’s left, or to the flag’s own right.
• When an American flag is carried in a parade or procession, it must be carried on the right side of the marchers.
• When acknowledging the National Anthem or reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, you should always face toward the American flag. It is also considered appropriate to salute the flag by placing your right hand over your heart.
Toby Keith said it pretty well:
"Courtesy Of The Red, White, And Blue (The Angry American)"
“American Girls and American Guys
We’ll always stand up and salute
We’ll always recognize
When we see Old Glory Flying
There’s a lot of men dead
So we can sleep in peace at night
When we lay down our head
Brought to you Courtesy of the Red White and Blue”
I would hope that your feeling about this country would be shown in your reverence for our flag. It is April right now. This gives you ample time to get a flag pole and be ready to display it on Flag Day, June 14th. Make this a goal. There are many ways to display a flag but the most common I think is the bracket that attaches to a wall or post. You can buy a kit with the flag, pole, and bracket. I encourage you to display Old Glory this year. Let’s show our support of this great country.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Our flag is not just a piece of cloth. It is a banner which we rally under. It is something that reminds us what we are fighting for. Some in this country do not think that we need to fight for our freedom. Ronald Reagan said:
“Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.”
I believe this to be true. I also believe that you are not really a true patriot of this country if you have no reverence for our flag. I believe you have the freedom to feel any way you want about it, that’s what freedom is. But I would expect you to understand who have fought and died for the flag some are ambivalent about.
Learn the true history of this country. Learn the history of our flag. Learn the importance of fighting for liberty.
An ancient military leader and man of God said it this way:
“And it came to pass that he rent his coat; and he took a piece thereof, and wrote upon it—In memory of our God, our religion, and freedom, and our peace, our wives, and our children—and he fastened it upon the end of a pole.” Alma 46:12
This is what our flag should mean to us. Moroni then had that flag (title of liberty) put on every tower in the city. I would bet that was a lot. So that the reminder of it would always be before their eyes. Our flag is similar. It reminds me of those who fought for our liberty. Some citizens don’t care. I don’t understand that, but OK. My opinion is that to ignore this symbol is ignoring those who fought and died so that we could live as we do. It also represents those who defend this country currently. Not only our military, but I believe our first responders are part of what keeps this country free. My son is an EMT. He is willing to help someone who has been in an accident or even if someone is just having chest pains in their living room. He is there.
I think that being a citizen of this country carries a burden. To stay free we must meet certain responsibilities. One is to support our military. They go where ordered and usually don’t want to be there. Another responsibility I think is to vote. I know sometimes it doesn’t seem to make a difference or you’re just not happy with any candidates (after looong campaigns I understand). But we do matter in this process. Let’s not get into a discussion about the electoral college here… as much as I’d like to. When you vote you take a public stand. It gives you complaining rights.
Do’s and Don’ts for Displaying a Flag:
• The American Flag should never be used as part of a drapery or a table cover. Always position your flag in an appropriate, prominent place of honor. Use decorative buntings or other specifically designed red, white and blue décor items for all your more general decorative purposes.
• Hang your American Flag so that it does not touch the ground, and make sure the flag is never hung upside down.
• When hanging a flag from a pole, window or balcony, make sure that the union (the blue field with the stars) is at the highest point of the staff. This rule holds true unless the flag is purposefully being displayed at half-mast. (Flying a flag at half-mast is sometimes done during times of national mourning.)
• If you are displaying another flag along with the American flag, (such as a state or community flag) be sure that the American flag is hung in the top position.
• When displayed indoors, the American flag should be hung on the right-hand side. If the flag is on a pole, position it to the right of the speaker or the stage.
• When the flag is displayed on a wall, the flag must be hung with the blue union to the observer’s left, or to the flag’s own right.
• When an American flag is carried in a parade or procession, it must be carried on the right side of the marchers.
• When acknowledging the National Anthem or reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, you should always face toward the American flag. It is also considered appropriate to salute the flag by placing your right hand over your heart.
Toby Keith said it pretty well:
"Courtesy Of The Red, White, And Blue (The Angry American)"
“American Girls and American Guys
We’ll always stand up and salute
We’ll always recognize
When we see Old Glory Flying
There’s a lot of men dead
So we can sleep in peace at night
When we lay down our head
Brought to you Courtesy of the Red White and Blue”
I would hope that your feeling about this country would be shown in your reverence for our flag. It is April right now. This gives you ample time to get a flag pole and be ready to display it on Flag Day, June 14th. Make this a goal. There are many ways to display a flag but the most common I think is the bracket that attaches to a wall or post. You can buy a kit with the flag, pole, and bracket. I encourage you to display Old Glory this year. Let’s show our support of this great country.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Wednesday, April 6, 2016
Suspicious Or Vigilant
Should we be suspicious or trusting? As members of the LDS Church we are Christians like other religions. We normally shy away from thinking the worst of people. But be careful. There is nothing wrong with being vigilant and being aware of what is going on around you. The problem is judgement. Maybe this will help as you watch around you and are not sure what is wrong or what is right.
Remember, people are not suspicious, behavior is. You cannot go by looks. I know that is somewhat “non reality” because we have to profile, so to speak. Just remember that the guy with tattoos and long hair is a person too. Don’t be extreme is this type of judgement. I know that it’s hard, but if you look close enough you will see that person’s behavior. Here are some signs:
Person running
Does this behavior indicate someone being in a hurry or does it have a heightened sense of urgency or tension about it? It would be suspicious if he were looking about furtively, as if he were being observed or pursued. Possible significance - he may be fleeing the scene of a crime.
Stranger carrying property
If this occurs at an unusual hour or location, and especially if the items are stereo equipment, office machinery, laboratory equipment, carrying a locked bicycle, does this person appear to be carrying something inside their clothing? This behavior is suspect. Possible significance - the subject is leaving the scene of a robbery, burglary, or theft.
Person going door-to-door in an office building or in a residential area
Thieves often look like they belong here, but if they wander in and out of building, or are seen trying doors, they may be looking for an opportunity to steal. If you see a person, or persons, going from house to house and then if one or more goes into a back or side yard, you may be witnessing a crime in progress. It becomes especially suspicious if one or more persons remains in the front while this occurs. Possible significance - they are 'casing' a house to burglarize or are burglarizing a house.
Property in vehicles
This is not suspicious unless the property is of an unusual nature: television sets, computers, stereo equipment, un-mounted car stereos, or auto parts. Possible significance - stolen property.
Unusual activity involving vehicles
Any person forcibly entering a locked vehicle, especially at night is highly suspect.
If you observe one or more persons sitting in a parked car closely scanning the area around them, you may be observing lookouts for a burglary, robbery in progress, a crime being planned, or surveillance for a terrorist event.
If you see someone being forcibly taken into a vehicle, you may be watching a kidnapping. A complete description of the vehicle and occupant(s) is crucial and must be relayed to a law enforcement agency immediately.
Certain moving vehicles
Suspicious if it is moving slowly and running without lights, or if its course appears aimless or repetitive. Possible significance - 'casing' buildings to burglarize, kidnapping, or surveillance for a future terrorist event.
Exhibiting unusual mental or physical symptoms
A person seen in an environment where he/she doesn't belong or "fit in" may seem suspicious. Non appropriate attire, unable to hold meaningful conversation, or focus on a particular subject. Possible significance - the person may have been injured in an accident, is under the influence of drugs or medications, or otherwise needs medical or psychiatric assistance.
Unusual noises
If you hear gunshots, screaming, sounds of combat, an explosion, abnormally barking dogs, or anything suggesting foul play, danger, or illegal activity, this may be suspicious.
Describing a suspicious person or vehicle
A good description of a suspicious person or vehicle play a major role in the ability of responding officers to identify the right person to stop or the right vehicle to investigate.
Look at unusual features such as dyed hair color or an unusual cut, unusual clothing. Remember colors and whether clothing can be removed easily. With vehicles any unusual missing parts, uncommon colors, uncommon shape, damage, window or bumper stickers.
Maintain dignity and description integrity
Do not verbalize your personal conclusion of the suspicious person/behavior to others. The behavior may be a result of mental illness, an accident, stroke, drug interaction, missed medication, Alzheimer's, cultural differences (differences in social norms), variations in communication (i.e. sign language), etc. The possibilities are endless and not always the fault of the person displaying the behavior. Don't start a panic or impede on an investigation by allowing yourself to get caught up in the moment. Leave investigations and diagnosis to the professionals in that field. Never become complacent, but continue to be aware and report any suspicious person's behavior. Always maintain your professional demure and the dignity of all involved.
Mail and packages
If a suspicious item is received through the mail, DO NOT OPEN IT! Even though a package bomb received through the mail is designed to explode upon being opened, there is always the chance of an accidental premature explosion. The package should not be handled or moved any more than necessary. Attempt to verify the contents with the addressee.
A bomb can be enclosed in either a parcel or an envelope. Its outward appearance is limited only by the imagination of the sender. However, mail bombs have some unique characteristics, which may assist in identifying suspicious mailings:
Unprofessionally wrapped packages
Distorted or foreign handwriting
Homemade address labels
Cut-and-paste lettering from newspapers or magazines
Irregularly shaped containers
No return address
Peculiar odor
Buzzing, ticking, or sloshing sound
Excessive postage
Unusual or unevenly distributed weight
Name or title of addressee may be incorrect or misspelled
Endorsements such as "personal", "private", "rush", "do not delay", etc
Foreign mail, air mail and special delivery
Misspelling of common words
Incorrect titles
Excessive weight
Lopsided or uneven envelope
Protruding wires or tinfoil
Excessive securing materiel (tape, string)
If you have reason to believe a letter or parcels is suspicious, do not take chances or worry about possible embarrassment if the item turns out to be innocent.
These techniques can be used at home or work and school. Be vigilant. Be aware.
Be prepared, not paranoid.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Remember, people are not suspicious, behavior is. You cannot go by looks. I know that is somewhat “non reality” because we have to profile, so to speak. Just remember that the guy with tattoos and long hair is a person too. Don’t be extreme is this type of judgement. I know that it’s hard, but if you look close enough you will see that person’s behavior. Here are some signs:
Person running
Does this behavior indicate someone being in a hurry or does it have a heightened sense of urgency or tension about it? It would be suspicious if he were looking about furtively, as if he were being observed or pursued. Possible significance - he may be fleeing the scene of a crime.
Stranger carrying property
If this occurs at an unusual hour or location, and especially if the items are stereo equipment, office machinery, laboratory equipment, carrying a locked bicycle, does this person appear to be carrying something inside their clothing? This behavior is suspect. Possible significance - the subject is leaving the scene of a robbery, burglary, or theft.
Person going door-to-door in an office building or in a residential area
Thieves often look like they belong here, but if they wander in and out of building, or are seen trying doors, they may be looking for an opportunity to steal. If you see a person, or persons, going from house to house and then if one or more goes into a back or side yard, you may be witnessing a crime in progress. It becomes especially suspicious if one or more persons remains in the front while this occurs. Possible significance - they are 'casing' a house to burglarize or are burglarizing a house.
Property in vehicles
This is not suspicious unless the property is of an unusual nature: television sets, computers, stereo equipment, un-mounted car stereos, or auto parts. Possible significance - stolen property.
Unusual activity involving vehicles
Any person forcibly entering a locked vehicle, especially at night is highly suspect.
If you observe one or more persons sitting in a parked car closely scanning the area around them, you may be observing lookouts for a burglary, robbery in progress, a crime being planned, or surveillance for a terrorist event.
If you see someone being forcibly taken into a vehicle, you may be watching a kidnapping. A complete description of the vehicle and occupant(s) is crucial and must be relayed to a law enforcement agency immediately.
Certain moving vehicles
Suspicious if it is moving slowly and running without lights, or if its course appears aimless or repetitive. Possible significance - 'casing' buildings to burglarize, kidnapping, or surveillance for a future terrorist event.
Exhibiting unusual mental or physical symptoms
A person seen in an environment where he/she doesn't belong or "fit in" may seem suspicious. Non appropriate attire, unable to hold meaningful conversation, or focus on a particular subject. Possible significance - the person may have been injured in an accident, is under the influence of drugs or medications, or otherwise needs medical or psychiatric assistance.
Unusual noises
If you hear gunshots, screaming, sounds of combat, an explosion, abnormally barking dogs, or anything suggesting foul play, danger, or illegal activity, this may be suspicious.
Describing a suspicious person or vehicle
A good description of a suspicious person or vehicle play a major role in the ability of responding officers to identify the right person to stop or the right vehicle to investigate.
Look at unusual features such as dyed hair color or an unusual cut, unusual clothing. Remember colors and whether clothing can be removed easily. With vehicles any unusual missing parts, uncommon colors, uncommon shape, damage, window or bumper stickers.
Maintain dignity and description integrity
Do not verbalize your personal conclusion of the suspicious person/behavior to others. The behavior may be a result of mental illness, an accident, stroke, drug interaction, missed medication, Alzheimer's, cultural differences (differences in social norms), variations in communication (i.e. sign language), etc. The possibilities are endless and not always the fault of the person displaying the behavior. Don't start a panic or impede on an investigation by allowing yourself to get caught up in the moment. Leave investigations and diagnosis to the professionals in that field. Never become complacent, but continue to be aware and report any suspicious person's behavior. Always maintain your professional demure and the dignity of all involved.
Mail and packages
If a suspicious item is received through the mail, DO NOT OPEN IT! Even though a package bomb received through the mail is designed to explode upon being opened, there is always the chance of an accidental premature explosion. The package should not be handled or moved any more than necessary. Attempt to verify the contents with the addressee.
A bomb can be enclosed in either a parcel or an envelope. Its outward appearance is limited only by the imagination of the sender. However, mail bombs have some unique characteristics, which may assist in identifying suspicious mailings:
Unprofessionally wrapped packages
Distorted or foreign handwriting
Homemade address labels
Cut-and-paste lettering from newspapers or magazines
Irregularly shaped containers
No return address
Peculiar odor
Buzzing, ticking, or sloshing sound
Excessive postage
Unusual or unevenly distributed weight
Name or title of addressee may be incorrect or misspelled
Endorsements such as "personal", "private", "rush", "do not delay", etc
Foreign mail, air mail and special delivery
Misspelling of common words
Incorrect titles
Excessive weight
Lopsided or uneven envelope
Protruding wires or tinfoil
Excessive securing materiel (tape, string)
If you have reason to believe a letter or parcels is suspicious, do not take chances or worry about possible embarrassment if the item turns out to be innocent.
These techniques can be used at home or work and school. Be vigilant. Be aware.
Be prepared, not paranoid.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Tuesday, April 5, 2016
Why Mormon Men Should Be Rambo
If I were starting a family I would organize my time, life, thinking. When I started a family, I was in the military. My thinking was not quite as I wished it to be. I was too “gung ho”, which is to say, too excited and ready to fight. I had just got off my mission 2 years prior and was married with a son. I wish I had been a little less "gung ho" and more organized in my life. I was whisked away into training, and I suppose that’s where my mind was. I went through basic training, tech school, jump school, survival school, and aircrew training, and weapons instructor school in a matter of the first 2 years. Then after I got settled into a job and permanent assignment, I was off training again. If I had it to do over again, I think I’d do it a little different. I don’t have any major regrets, I just wish I would have put some thought into my preparation.
It wasn’t until I was older and a little wiser that I realized that I had a responsibility in what I now call the 3 P’s. Preside, Provide, and Protect. I’d like to think that I put God first in my life and then my family. I think I was not a perfect Dad, but I did alright. There are some things I would have prioritized differently.
Violence is something that seems to be wrong, and in most situations, is wrong. But the difference between what we as LDS members should learn, godly defense, and what is wrong, ungodly violence, are two different things.
Alma 48:14-16
“Now the Nephites were taught to defend themselves against their enemies, even to the shedding of blood if it were necessary; yea, and they were also taught never to give an offense, yea, and never to raise the sword except it were against an enemy, except it were to preserve their lives. And this was their faith, that by so doing God would prosper them in the land, or in other words, if they were faithful in keeping the commandments of God that he would prosper them in the land; yea, warn them to flee, or to prepare for war, according to their danger; And also, that God would make it known unto them whither they should go to defend themselves against their enemies, and by so doing, the Lord would deliver them; and this was the faith of Moroni, and his heart did glory in it; not in the shedding of blood but in doing good, in preserving his people, yea, in keeping the commandments of God, yea, and resisting iniquity.”
By following this law of non-aggression, Moroni and his brethren were worthy of the blessings the Lord promised to those who would follow. They gloried in this. The Lord would warn them to flee or to prepare for war and where to go to defend themselves. He would deliver them. What great faith they had in our Savior. The Nephites had ample rationale to start a war at this point. But they knew that reasoning to be flawed. Amalickiah had just failed in his usurpation of the Nephite nation and was propagandizing the Lamanites to war. Moroni won the information war by raising the Title of Liberty. The truth prevailed. Peace ensued for four years.
Fathers and Husbands as one who is “one of you” I would give these suggestions.
First, come to grips with the reality and “awake to a sense of your awful situation…” (Ether 8:24) and understand that there is evil out there that will not go away. It may get worse in these, the last days. Come to grips with the fact that you may have to learn some violence to be effective to your family, your country, and maybe your Church.
Second, find a discipline that will work for you. It would be wise to have more than one skill. You don’t ever know, you may enjoy one of these disciplines.
Hand to hand combat. There are many forms of this.
Weapons. There are many lethal and not so lethal weapons out there.
Learn from good instruction. You must learn to do these things properly.
Here is a non-comprehensive list:
Karate, Taekwondo, Jiu Jitsu, many others. I like the philosophy of Tim Larkin and Target Focus Training (targetfocustraining.com)
Firearms, handguns in particular.
Pepper spray, stun guns, defensive wand. These are considered non-lethal but some have dies from all of them. Especially if they are used wrong.
Knives.
Many of these are up close and personal self-defense options. Obviously, I prefer a gun for self-defense. I’d rather reach out and touch someone than be up close and personal. But I also enjoy shooting and have had lots of training and experience. There are some other options that I’ve been trained on but some I’d like to be better trained on.
It is good to be well-rounded in defense. I like to be familiar with many options.
Third, you should have plans concerning your self-defense. Involve your family. I have a friend who has been involved and taught several forms of fighting for years. I usually have him set up mats in the cultural hall of our Chapel building and he teaches my family in a private lesson. Take advantage of community classes. There may be self-defense training available at little or no cost. The same goes for preparedness training such as first-aid and CPR, CERT (community emergency response teams) often give free training. The Red Cross, Fire and Police Departments, local churches, even the Boy Scouts may be good sources for preparedness training.
Fourth is practice, practice, practice! Most of these skills are perishable.
Fifth is most important. Moroni and his army had their priorities in order. Choose righteousness, prepare, and then let God take care of you. Being righteous and then trusting God to take care of you is skipping an important step. Preparation. Give God something to work with.
Some may say, “We should trust in God to help us. The Lord will provide.” Well that is true, the scriptures have many examples of miracles of protection. But I also feel that often that is the exception, not the rule. The scriptures also talk about action on our part. Faith without works is dead.
2 Nephi 25:23
23 For we labor diligently to write, to persuade our children, and also our brethren, to believe in Christ, and to be reconciled to God; for we know that it is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do.
We are saved in many ways, after all we can do. We must act for the Lord to step in. Why is it we use seat belts, air bags, fire extinguishers, and bike helmets? We want to be prepared for if something happens. Self-defense is the exact same thing, preparation for if something happens.
Fathers and men of the Church, don’t shun your duty. Do whatever it takes to protect your family.
If I was a just starting out with my family that is what I would do. Plan, Train, and practice.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
It wasn’t until I was older and a little wiser that I realized that I had a responsibility in what I now call the 3 P’s. Preside, Provide, and Protect. I’d like to think that I put God first in my life and then my family. I think I was not a perfect Dad, but I did alright. There are some things I would have prioritized differently.
Violence is something that seems to be wrong, and in most situations, is wrong. But the difference between what we as LDS members should learn, godly defense, and what is wrong, ungodly violence, are two different things.
Alma 48:14-16
“Now the Nephites were taught to defend themselves against their enemies, even to the shedding of blood if it were necessary; yea, and they were also taught never to give an offense, yea, and never to raise the sword except it were against an enemy, except it were to preserve their lives. And this was their faith, that by so doing God would prosper them in the land, or in other words, if they were faithful in keeping the commandments of God that he would prosper them in the land; yea, warn them to flee, or to prepare for war, according to their danger; And also, that God would make it known unto them whither they should go to defend themselves against their enemies, and by so doing, the Lord would deliver them; and this was the faith of Moroni, and his heart did glory in it; not in the shedding of blood but in doing good, in preserving his people, yea, in keeping the commandments of God, yea, and resisting iniquity.”
By following this law of non-aggression, Moroni and his brethren were worthy of the blessings the Lord promised to those who would follow. They gloried in this. The Lord would warn them to flee or to prepare for war and where to go to defend themselves. He would deliver them. What great faith they had in our Savior. The Nephites had ample rationale to start a war at this point. But they knew that reasoning to be flawed. Amalickiah had just failed in his usurpation of the Nephite nation and was propagandizing the Lamanites to war. Moroni won the information war by raising the Title of Liberty. The truth prevailed. Peace ensued for four years.
Fathers and Husbands as one who is “one of you” I would give these suggestions.
First, come to grips with the reality and “awake to a sense of your awful situation…” (Ether 8:24) and understand that there is evil out there that will not go away. It may get worse in these, the last days. Come to grips with the fact that you may have to learn some violence to be effective to your family, your country, and maybe your Church.
Second, find a discipline that will work for you. It would be wise to have more than one skill. You don’t ever know, you may enjoy one of these disciplines.
Hand to hand combat. There are many forms of this.
Weapons. There are many lethal and not so lethal weapons out there.
Learn from good instruction. You must learn to do these things properly.
Here is a non-comprehensive list:
Karate, Taekwondo, Jiu Jitsu, many others. I like the philosophy of Tim Larkin and Target Focus Training (targetfocustraining.com)
Firearms, handguns in particular.
Pepper spray, stun guns, defensive wand. These are considered non-lethal but some have dies from all of them. Especially if they are used wrong.
Knives.
Many of these are up close and personal self-defense options. Obviously, I prefer a gun for self-defense. I’d rather reach out and touch someone than be up close and personal. But I also enjoy shooting and have had lots of training and experience. There are some other options that I’ve been trained on but some I’d like to be better trained on.
It is good to be well-rounded in defense. I like to be familiar with many options.
Third, you should have plans concerning your self-defense. Involve your family. I have a friend who has been involved and taught several forms of fighting for years. I usually have him set up mats in the cultural hall of our Chapel building and he teaches my family in a private lesson. Take advantage of community classes. There may be self-defense training available at little or no cost. The same goes for preparedness training such as first-aid and CPR, CERT (community emergency response teams) often give free training. The Red Cross, Fire and Police Departments, local churches, even the Boy Scouts may be good sources for preparedness training.
Fourth is practice, practice, practice! Most of these skills are perishable.
Fifth is most important. Moroni and his army had their priorities in order. Choose righteousness, prepare, and then let God take care of you. Being righteous and then trusting God to take care of you is skipping an important step. Preparation. Give God something to work with.
Some may say, “We should trust in God to help us. The Lord will provide.” Well that is true, the scriptures have many examples of miracles of protection. But I also feel that often that is the exception, not the rule. The scriptures also talk about action on our part. Faith without works is dead.
2 Nephi 25:23
23 For we labor diligently to write, to persuade our children, and also our brethren, to believe in Christ, and to be reconciled to God; for we know that it is by grace that we are saved, after all we can do.
We are saved in many ways, after all we can do. We must act for the Lord to step in. Why is it we use seat belts, air bags, fire extinguishers, and bike helmets? We want to be prepared for if something happens. Self-defense is the exact same thing, preparation for if something happens.
Fathers and men of the Church, don’t shun your duty. Do whatever it takes to protect your family.
If I was a just starting out with my family that is what I would do. Plan, Train, and practice.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Monday, April 4, 2016
Cyrus Wheelock and Self-defense
Many people, including members of the church, don’t know that Joseph and Hyrum were armed when they were attacked in Carthage. Detractors to the Church say that Joseph was not a martyr because he was armed. That really has nothing to do with the definition of a martyr.
It was raining that morning, so Cyrus Wheelock put on his overcoat. He slipped an Ethan Allen dragoon-style pepperbox pistol into his pocket. The pistol belonged to John Taylor, who was in jail at Carthage, Illinois, with Joseph Smith, Hyrum Smith, and Dr. Willard Richards. The pistol was a six-shooter, the kind of weapon later used so frequently by the ’49ers in California.
Cyrus had been at the jail the evening before, and he needed to return in the morning for more legal business, so at 8:00 a.m., he went to Illinois Governor Thomas Ford to request a pass. Ford provided two passes: one for entry into the prison and one for safe travel between Carthage and Nauvoo. This what the passes said:
Suffer Mr. C. H. Wheelock to pass in to visit General Joseph Smith and friends in Carthage jail unmolested.
Thomas Ford,
Governor and Commander-in-Chief.
June, 27th, 1844.
Protect Mr. C. H. Wheelock in passing to and from Carthage and Nauvoo.
Thomas Ford,
Governor and Commander-in-Chief.
June, 27th, 1844.
Cyrus had heard credible death threats against Joseph Smith from a man named John Hicks, and he repeated the threats to the governor, but Governor Ford refused to do anything.
Cyrus entered the prison, his pistol unnoticed. He spent an hour or two there, collecting a letter from Joseph to Emma Smith, gathering a list of witnesses for the upcoming trial, taking verbal messages from the four men to their families, and receiving instructions to tell the Nauvoo Legion to avoid any show of force. The messages were so numerous that Willard Richards suggested writing them down in case Cyrus forgot them, but Hyrum Smith looked Cyrus in the eye and said, “Brother Wheelock will remember all that we tell him, and he will never forget the occurrences of this day.”
As Cyrus got ready to leave, he took the pepperbox pistol out of his overcoat pocket and gave it to Joseph Smith, then walked down the stairs and out of the jail.
Handing the single shot pistol to Hyrum Joseph said, “You may have use for this.” Brother Hyrum observed, “I hate to use such things, or to see them used.” “So do I,” said Joseph, “but we may have to, to defend ourselves;” upon this Hyrum took the pistol.
Some have said the Church has tried to hide these facts. It’s clear in two places in the History Of The Church where this is described. Also, the two pistols are on display in the Church History Museum on Temple Square.
Cyrus Wheelock was a faithful member of the Church. He served missions and was one of the rescuers of the Willie and Martin handcarts companies. He also wrote the words to the hymn “Ye Elders Of Israel.”
He was a loyal member throughout his life and knew the importance of self-defense.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
It was raining that morning, so Cyrus Wheelock put on his overcoat. He slipped an Ethan Allen dragoon-style pepperbox pistol into his pocket. The pistol belonged to John Taylor, who was in jail at Carthage, Illinois, with Joseph Smith, Hyrum Smith, and Dr. Willard Richards. The pistol was a six-shooter, the kind of weapon later used so frequently by the ’49ers in California.
Cyrus had been at the jail the evening before, and he needed to return in the morning for more legal business, so at 8:00 a.m., he went to Illinois Governor Thomas Ford to request a pass. Ford provided two passes: one for entry into the prison and one for safe travel between Carthage and Nauvoo. This what the passes said:
Suffer Mr. C. H. Wheelock to pass in to visit General Joseph Smith and friends in Carthage jail unmolested.
Thomas Ford,
Governor and Commander-in-Chief.
June, 27th, 1844.
Protect Mr. C. H. Wheelock in passing to and from Carthage and Nauvoo.
Thomas Ford,
Governor and Commander-in-Chief.
June, 27th, 1844.
Cyrus had heard credible death threats against Joseph Smith from a man named John Hicks, and he repeated the threats to the governor, but Governor Ford refused to do anything.
Cyrus entered the prison, his pistol unnoticed. He spent an hour or two there, collecting a letter from Joseph to Emma Smith, gathering a list of witnesses for the upcoming trial, taking verbal messages from the four men to their families, and receiving instructions to tell the Nauvoo Legion to avoid any show of force. The messages were so numerous that Willard Richards suggested writing them down in case Cyrus forgot them, but Hyrum Smith looked Cyrus in the eye and said, “Brother Wheelock will remember all that we tell him, and he will never forget the occurrences of this day.”
As Cyrus got ready to leave, he took the pepperbox pistol out of his overcoat pocket and gave it to Joseph Smith, then walked down the stairs and out of the jail.
Handing the single shot pistol to Hyrum Joseph said, “You may have use for this.” Brother Hyrum observed, “I hate to use such things, or to see them used.” “So do I,” said Joseph, “but we may have to, to defend ourselves;” upon this Hyrum took the pistol.
Some have said the Church has tried to hide these facts. It’s clear in two places in the History Of The Church where this is described. Also, the two pistols are on display in the Church History Museum on Temple Square.
Cyrus Wheelock was a faithful member of the Church. He served missions and was one of the rescuers of the Willie and Martin handcarts companies. He also wrote the words to the hymn “Ye Elders Of Israel.”
He was a loyal member throughout his life and knew the importance of self-defense.
Semper Paratus
Check 6
Burn
Friday, April 1, 2016
Rate Yourself
When preparing for emergencies I will always advocate a realistic plan. Sometimes to this you must have a place to start. Self-evaluation in an honest way is extremely important to prepare better. The following is a place to start. Rate your preparedness.
When I looked at this I rated myself a 5. But looking at again I would say I was a 4.5.
LEVEL 0
How a Friend Would Describe Me
• No thought or effort put toward preparedness. Every emergency situation is a potential disaster.
Supplies I Have on Hand
• Less than one week of food in my house.
• No self-defense plan or equipment.
• No water stored or way to purify it.
• No extra medicines/prescriptions.
• No grid-independent energy/heat capacity. Example of Supplies at This Level
• Condiments in the fridge, Pop-Tarts in the cabinet.
Steps I Have Taken
• None. I see articles online and government alerts about being prepared for emergencies, but haven’t put any energy toward it yet.
Scenarios I’m ready for:
• Situation, such as power outage for one day or less due to rainstorm.
***In trouble after 1 day of emergency***
LEVEL 1
How a Friend Would Describe Me
• You have awareness that one should have some stuff on hand for emergencies, and some effort put toward that. Note: This is how most Americans actually live their lives. Supplies I Have on Hand
• About two weeks worth of food and water (or way to purify water), somewhat informally, mostly extra canned goods.
• Basic first aid and OTC medicines on hand because you buy value-sized to make sure you always have a little extra. Example of Supplies at This Level
• Flashlight and batteries.
• Non-perishable foods: canned goods, cereal, pasta/rice, etc.
• “Bathroom” first aid items (Band-Aids, Ibuprophen, thermometer, Vasoline, etc).
• Bottled water, a gallon of bleach. Steps I Have Taken
• Physical copies of key documents: birth certificates, marriage license, passports, mortgage, car title/registration, etc.
• I’ve talked to the adults/older children in my household about “what we’d do if” scenarios, such as a fire, flood, power outage, etc. Scenarios I’m ready for:
• Small regional issue, minor disruption of services, such as power out for three+ days due to earthquake, ice storm, etc. ***In trouble after a few days of emergency or if forced to leave home*** LEVEL 2 How a Friend Would Describe Me
• You’re a “Boy Scout.” You probably wear a belt even if you have suspenders on. You feel consciously responsible for being prepared. Regular, organized effort put toward being prepared physically, if not mentally and spiritually. You’re someone friends/family think of as “prepared” and would probably turn to in an emergency. Supplies I Have on Hand
• At least one month of food and water stored (or way to purify water).
• Prescriptions on hand sufficient for at least a month.
• Capacity to generate off-grid heat/power on site (e.g. generator, basic solar).
• An “emergency kit” on hand so you can grab it and leave home if necessary.
• Something on hand you can use for self-defense, could be a firearm, could be a baseball bat. Example of Supplies at This Level
• Non-perishable foods specifically stored for emergencies, sufficient for two meals per day per person: rice, beans, dry pasta, canned goods, oats, salt, etc.
• Actual portable first-aid kit sufficient for the household/family.
• Candles or lantern, matches.
• Sleeping bags and extra blankets.
• Water stored and water purification supplies. Steps I Have Taken
• A plan. My household has a plan in place that covers a few specific scenarios, such as what we’ll all do in an ice storm/blizzard or if there is a terror attack in our area. The people in my household know what to do and whom to contact if there is an emergency.
Scenarios I’m ready for:
• Regional issue including significant disruption of basic services, such as a power outage of up to 1 month.
***In trouble after 1 month of emergency or if forced to leave home for longer than a couple of days***
LEVEL 3
How a Friend Would Describe Me
• You take pride in being self-sufficient. Whether or not most people around you know it, you think about worst-case scenarios and how to be ready for them, both for yourself and for others. You’re mentally and emotionally ready to respond in emergency situations. Supplies I Have on Hand
• Up to six months of food and water stored or planned for emergencies.
• Trauma-capable first aid capabilities, including lacerations that need stitches/suturing.
• Defensive firearms, plus training and ammunition sufficient to make them useful.
• Cash on hand in case ATMs/Banks aren’t accessible for a short time. Example of Supplies at This Level • Bulk food items that store for longer than two years: beans and rice in bulk and in sealed containers, powdered milk, canned meats/fish, canned and dehydrated vegetables and fruits.
• Cash on hand to cover rent/housing and 1 month of household expenses (e.g. groceries, gas).
• First-aid kit includes trauma bandages and supplies.
• Handgun and/or shotgun for household defense Steps I Have Taken
• I have a plan covering both staying at home for a short-term emergency, but know what I’d do if I had to leave home.
• I’ve started to develop some skills that I can use in an emergency situation where basic/government services aren’t available.
Scenarios I’m ready for:
• A minor national or major regional emergency, such as a dirty-bomb or biological attack/epidemic, long term power outage or major civil disobedience in numerous cities around the country.
***In trouble after three+ months of emergency or if economy collapses***
LEVEL 4 How a Friend Would Describe Me
• You’ve made prepping a “way of life” to an extent and are ready for anything. It’s more than a personal thing; this is a group activity now, within your family circle, and perhaps with friends and neighbors.
Supplies I Have on Hand
• A one-year supply of food/water or more, and the capacity/plan to grow more in a garden.
• Barter items that will be useful in an economic collapse, such as silver/gold, ammunition, building hardware, clothing.
• Major first aid supplies, including antibiotics, basic surgical equipment, etc.
• The capacity to generate energy, heat and potable water off-grid, including fuel as necessary.
• Both handguns and rifles/shotguns on hand, enough ammo that you’re worried about being on an ATF watch list.
Example of Supplies at This Level
• Significant food storage, including a scheduled calories/day diet for all household members: dehydrated and bulk dried foods.
• Major first-aid/trauma and emergency dental kit plus potassium iodate tablets sufficient for 10-15 days.
• A handgun and rifle for all willing adult members of the household, 1000 rounds of ammunition per weapon.
• Propane or other cooking and heating fuel safely stored.
• Gold and silver coins, rounds or bars . Steps I Have Taken
• Serious training both for myself as well as other household members, including survival/medical skills, farming, sewing skills that will be necessary during a prolonged breakdown of services and government control.
• I have a relocation plan that involves my own family and potentially others, including provisions I can use both locally and wherever my retreat location is.
Scenarios I’m ready for:
• A major national emergency, such as a complete economic collapse, a nuclear/biological war or pandemic, or an EMP taking out the US Power grid
***In trouble if there isn’t some semblance of a stable recovery and government after a full year***
LEVEL 5 How a Friend Would Describe Me
• You are a ready to survive a Zombie apocalypse. You absolutely terrify the Liberal Intelligentsia. Supplies I Have on Hand
• Gardening and/or farming equipment.
• Solar bank with deep storage batteries.
• Farm animals.
• Horses or ATVs for travel (with stored feed/fuel).
• 500+ gallons of fuel/diesel stored below ground.
• Battle rifles and carbines, at least 10,000 rounds of ammunition per weapon.
• Copy of the Bible, the U.S. Constitution, the Federalist Papers, Atlas Shrugged and books by Glenn Beck. Example of Supplies at This Level
• Heirloom seeds, fertilizer/compost.
• FAL, M-14 or AR-15 rifles, accessories, extra magazines and equipment.
• Goats, cows, pigs and chickens or other livestock.
• Extra auto parts for ATVs/Vehicles: batteries, starter, alternator, belts, hoses, water pump, etc.
• Kerosene and lantern, wood or coal stove and fuel.
• Surgical kit including scalpels, clamps, sutures/staples, blood transfusion kits. Steps I Have Taken
• I have a fully capable small farm/ranch, with food and supplies for myself, family and visitors.
• I have the plans and capability to defend it all against marauders up to platoon-sized foreign/UN troops.
• I have the ability to generate an income in a scenario either through selling food, equipment or services I am sufficiently skilled to deliver.
• I have the spiritual and philosophical basis to make morally correct decisions for myself, my family and property in a doomsday scenario. Scenarios I’m ready for:
• The End of Days/Rapture/2nd Coming, global thermonuclear war, eruption of the Yellowstone Caldera, election of Hillary Clinton
***In trouble only if I fail to maintain my moral compass during trying times***
When I looked at this I rated myself a 5. But looking at again I would say I was a 4.5.
LEVEL 0
How a Friend Would Describe Me
• No thought or effort put toward preparedness. Every emergency situation is a potential disaster.
Supplies I Have on Hand
• Less than one week of food in my house.
• No self-defense plan or equipment.
• No water stored or way to purify it.
• No extra medicines/prescriptions.
• No grid-independent energy/heat capacity. Example of Supplies at This Level
• Condiments in the fridge, Pop-Tarts in the cabinet.
Steps I Have Taken
• None. I see articles online and government alerts about being prepared for emergencies, but haven’t put any energy toward it yet.
Scenarios I’m ready for:
• Situation, such as power outage for one day or less due to rainstorm.
***In trouble after 1 day of emergency***
LEVEL 1
How a Friend Would Describe Me
• You have awareness that one should have some stuff on hand for emergencies, and some effort put toward that. Note: This is how most Americans actually live their lives. Supplies I Have on Hand
• About two weeks worth of food and water (or way to purify water), somewhat informally, mostly extra canned goods.
• Basic first aid and OTC medicines on hand because you buy value-sized to make sure you always have a little extra. Example of Supplies at This Level
• Flashlight and batteries.
• Non-perishable foods: canned goods, cereal, pasta/rice, etc.
• “Bathroom” first aid items (Band-Aids, Ibuprophen, thermometer, Vasoline, etc).
• Bottled water, a gallon of bleach. Steps I Have Taken
• Physical copies of key documents: birth certificates, marriage license, passports, mortgage, car title/registration, etc.
• I’ve talked to the adults/older children in my household about “what we’d do if” scenarios, such as a fire, flood, power outage, etc. Scenarios I’m ready for:
• Small regional issue, minor disruption of services, such as power out for three+ days due to earthquake, ice storm, etc. ***In trouble after a few days of emergency or if forced to leave home*** LEVEL 2 How a Friend Would Describe Me
• You’re a “Boy Scout.” You probably wear a belt even if you have suspenders on. You feel consciously responsible for being prepared. Regular, organized effort put toward being prepared physically, if not mentally and spiritually. You’re someone friends/family think of as “prepared” and would probably turn to in an emergency. Supplies I Have on Hand
• At least one month of food and water stored (or way to purify water).
• Prescriptions on hand sufficient for at least a month.
• Capacity to generate off-grid heat/power on site (e.g. generator, basic solar).
• An “emergency kit” on hand so you can grab it and leave home if necessary.
• Something on hand you can use for self-defense, could be a firearm, could be a baseball bat. Example of Supplies at This Level
• Non-perishable foods specifically stored for emergencies, sufficient for two meals per day per person: rice, beans, dry pasta, canned goods, oats, salt, etc.
• Actual portable first-aid kit sufficient for the household/family.
• Candles or lantern, matches.
• Sleeping bags and extra blankets.
• Water stored and water purification supplies. Steps I Have Taken
• A plan. My household has a plan in place that covers a few specific scenarios, such as what we’ll all do in an ice storm/blizzard or if there is a terror attack in our area. The people in my household know what to do and whom to contact if there is an emergency.
Scenarios I’m ready for:
• Regional issue including significant disruption of basic services, such as a power outage of up to 1 month.
***In trouble after 1 month of emergency or if forced to leave home for longer than a couple of days***
LEVEL 3
How a Friend Would Describe Me
• You take pride in being self-sufficient. Whether or not most people around you know it, you think about worst-case scenarios and how to be ready for them, both for yourself and for others. You’re mentally and emotionally ready to respond in emergency situations. Supplies I Have on Hand
• Up to six months of food and water stored or planned for emergencies.
• Trauma-capable first aid capabilities, including lacerations that need stitches/suturing.
• Defensive firearms, plus training and ammunition sufficient to make them useful.
• Cash on hand in case ATMs/Banks aren’t accessible for a short time. Example of Supplies at This Level • Bulk food items that store for longer than two years: beans and rice in bulk and in sealed containers, powdered milk, canned meats/fish, canned and dehydrated vegetables and fruits.
• Cash on hand to cover rent/housing and 1 month of household expenses (e.g. groceries, gas).
• First-aid kit includes trauma bandages and supplies.
• Handgun and/or shotgun for household defense Steps I Have Taken
• I have a plan covering both staying at home for a short-term emergency, but know what I’d do if I had to leave home.
• I’ve started to develop some skills that I can use in an emergency situation where basic/government services aren’t available.
Scenarios I’m ready for:
• A minor national or major regional emergency, such as a dirty-bomb or biological attack/epidemic, long term power outage or major civil disobedience in numerous cities around the country.
***In trouble after three+ months of emergency or if economy collapses***
LEVEL 4 How a Friend Would Describe Me
• You’ve made prepping a “way of life” to an extent and are ready for anything. It’s more than a personal thing; this is a group activity now, within your family circle, and perhaps with friends and neighbors.
Supplies I Have on Hand
• A one-year supply of food/water or more, and the capacity/plan to grow more in a garden.
• Barter items that will be useful in an economic collapse, such as silver/gold, ammunition, building hardware, clothing.
• Major first aid supplies, including antibiotics, basic surgical equipment, etc.
• The capacity to generate energy, heat and potable water off-grid, including fuel as necessary.
• Both handguns and rifles/shotguns on hand, enough ammo that you’re worried about being on an ATF watch list.
Example of Supplies at This Level
• Significant food storage, including a scheduled calories/day diet for all household members: dehydrated and bulk dried foods.
• Major first-aid/trauma and emergency dental kit plus potassium iodate tablets sufficient for 10-15 days.
• A handgun and rifle for all willing adult members of the household, 1000 rounds of ammunition per weapon.
• Propane or other cooking and heating fuel safely stored.
• Gold and silver coins, rounds or bars . Steps I Have Taken
• Serious training both for myself as well as other household members, including survival/medical skills, farming, sewing skills that will be necessary during a prolonged breakdown of services and government control.
• I have a relocation plan that involves my own family and potentially others, including provisions I can use both locally and wherever my retreat location is.
Scenarios I’m ready for:
• A major national emergency, such as a complete economic collapse, a nuclear/biological war or pandemic, or an EMP taking out the US Power grid
***In trouble if there isn’t some semblance of a stable recovery and government after a full year***
LEVEL 5 How a Friend Would Describe Me
• You are a ready to survive a Zombie apocalypse. You absolutely terrify the Liberal Intelligentsia. Supplies I Have on Hand
• Gardening and/or farming equipment.
• Solar bank with deep storage batteries.
• Farm animals.
• Horses or ATVs for travel (with stored feed/fuel).
• 500+ gallons of fuel/diesel stored below ground.
• Battle rifles and carbines, at least 10,000 rounds of ammunition per weapon.
• Copy of the Bible, the U.S. Constitution, the Federalist Papers, Atlas Shrugged and books by Glenn Beck. Example of Supplies at This Level
• Heirloom seeds, fertilizer/compost.
• FAL, M-14 or AR-15 rifles, accessories, extra magazines and equipment.
• Goats, cows, pigs and chickens or other livestock.
• Extra auto parts for ATVs/Vehicles: batteries, starter, alternator, belts, hoses, water pump, etc.
• Kerosene and lantern, wood or coal stove and fuel.
• Surgical kit including scalpels, clamps, sutures/staples, blood transfusion kits. Steps I Have Taken
• I have a fully capable small farm/ranch, with food and supplies for myself, family and visitors.
• I have the plans and capability to defend it all against marauders up to platoon-sized foreign/UN troops.
• I have the ability to generate an income in a scenario either through selling food, equipment or services I am sufficiently skilled to deliver.
• I have the spiritual and philosophical basis to make morally correct decisions for myself, my family and property in a doomsday scenario. Scenarios I’m ready for:
• The End of Days/Rapture/2nd Coming, global thermonuclear war, eruption of the Yellowstone Caldera, election of Hillary Clinton
***In trouble only if I fail to maintain my moral compass during trying times***
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)