Originally published at Notes from the bunker…. You can comment here or there.

Ok, this is fascinating. A blog of day to day existence during a zombie takeover of the world. Yeah its fiction, but many of the scenarios (food,water and ammo shortages, etc) are real-world enough to make it interesting. Regardless its a very entertaining read (go to the “Journal’ section) and one that I’m enjoying.
=====
Less than a week to the election. Should be interesting.
=====
I really need to pick up a radio scanner. I need something that will pick up cell phones (either by design [older style] or by mods), cordless phones, my intruder alarms (133.5 mHz) and the usual cop/fire traffic (150~ mHz)..needs to be durable, run on AA batteries, be adaptable to a larger antanae, be portable, have a backlit display and be reasonably priced. Anyone?

Ok, this is fascinating. A blog of day to day existence during a zombie takeover of the world. Yeah its fiction, but many of the scenarios (food,water and ammo shortages, etc) are real-world enough to make it interesting. Regardless its a very entertaining read (go to the “Journal’ section) and one that I’m enjoying.
=====
Less than a week to the election. Should be interesting.
=====
I really need to pick up a radio scanner. I need something that will pick up cell phones (either by design [older style] or by mods), cordless phones, my intruder alarms (133.5 mHz) and the usual cop/fire traffic (150~ mHz)..needs to be durable, run on AA batteries, be adaptable to a larger antanae, be portable, have a backlit display and be reasonably priced. Anyone?

Originally published at Notes from the bunker…. You can comment here or there.

Drudge is reporting that theres a videotape from Al Qaeda saying that ‘the big one’ is planned for some time in the next couple weeks.

Ive heard this tune before.

On the other hand, I still think Something is going to happen in time for the election. Im not terribly worried about danger from the act itself, my neck of the woods isnt anything close to a target…my concern would be from the fallout, so to speak, in terms of actions the government takes in the name of security.

Nonetheless, its always good to be prepared so, of course, I’ll be making strides in that direction. Some extra cash on hand incase the electronic banking system gets fubared. (Which is easy enough if you knock out the right satellite relay station, etc.) Everything else Im pretty well covered on.
=====
Watched ‘Dawn of The Dead (2004)’ last night. Tactics, tactics, tactics! These people….no fallback positions, no bugout bags, no Plan B, and the only halfway decent idea they had was fortifying a couple of shuttle buses like they were the A-Team.
=====
From a pure survivalist standpoint I genuinely think that either candidate is just as likely to be unable to reduce the threats we face as the other guy. If we get Bush, we get more terrorist attacks because we’re aggressively stomping on bad guys, if we get Kerry we get more terrorist attacks because we appear weak and indecisive. So, from a terrorist standpoint I see no difference. There are, of course, differences on other issues but from the backpack-nuke-in-NYC standpoint I think it wont make a difference.
=====
Weather here has definitely gotten colder, so its time to break out the cold-weather gear. Sportsmans Guide has my absolute favorite German flectar parka and liner on sale for $20 again. I plan on getting at least two mroe this time.

Drudge is reporting that theres a videotape from Al Qaeda saying that ‘the big one’ is planned for some time in the next couple weeks.

Ive heard this tune before.

On the other hand, I still think Something is going to happen in time for the election. Im not terribly worried about danger from the act itself, my neck of the woods isnt anything close to a target…my concern would be from the fallout, so to speak, in terms of actions the government takes in the name of security.

Nonetheless, its always good to be prepared so, of course, I’ll be making strides in that direction. Some extra cash on hand incase the electronic banking system gets fubared. (Which is easy enough if you knock out the right satellite relay station, etc.) Everything else Im pretty well covered on.
=====
Watched ‘Dawn of The Dead (2004)’ last night. Tactics, tactics, tactics! These people….no fallback positions, no bugout bags, no Plan B, and the only halfway decent idea they had was fortifying a couple of shuttle buses like they were the A-Team.
=====
From a pure survivalist standpoint I genuinely think that either candidate is just as likely to be unable to reduce the threats we face as the other guy. If we get Bush, we get more terrorist attacks because we’re aggressively stomping on bad guys, if we get Kerry we get more terrorist attacks because we appear weak and indecisive. So, from a terrorist standpoint I see no difference. There are, of course, differences on other issues but from the backpack-nuke-in-NYC standpoint I think it wont make a difference.
=====
Weather here has definitely gotten colder, so its time to break out the cold-weather gear. Sportsmans Guide has my absolute favorite German flectar parka and liner on sale for $20 again. I plan on getting at least two mroe this time.

Originally published at Notes from the bunker…. You can comment here or there.

One of the things I need to do is pick up an extra kerosene heater. Obviously, it comes in handy if, for whatever reason, the primary one isnt functioning, but I’ve become fascinated with this little propane number. I can run it off the 1# bottles (which I keep a few dozen on hand for powering lamps and stoves) or you can hook it up to a 20# barbecue bomb. My main reason for a secondary heater, other than redundancy, is to keep in the basement to keep the pipes from freezing. In that regard it doesnt have to keep the basement warm, it simply has to keep it above freezing…a task I think it should be up to.
=====
Picked up something ive been eyeing for the last couple months. Adventure Medical Kits Thermo-Lite Bivvy Sack..basically a space-blanket sleeping bag…but a bit more durable and with some nice features. Its twenty bucks but could prove quite useful. Other than its intended use it would seem to be ideal for adding another few degrees to the rating of a sleeping bag when used as a liner or sleeping bag cover (its cut generously enough to do so.) Like every other person out in the sticks, I carry the usual space blanket but let me tell you those things are a major pain in the ass. They are flimsy, never fold up again into as small a package, and are tough to use in windy situations. Anyway, I picked this thing up and will be testing it out at a later date. I will be packing it in my Tactical Tailor bag when Im out hunting this year. Ive never been forced to spend the night out on a trip due to unforseen circumstances (ie. getting lost) but Ive come really, really close a few times. Just from inspecting this thing, laying it out and climbing in, etc, I can say that its definitely an improvemtn over the cheap space blankets…would probably be great when used in conjunction with one.
=====
Kel-Tec has an updated version of their SU-16 folding .223 carbine…the SU-16B is shorter and features better sights. Still uses an AK-style gas system and takes AR mags. A serious contender for a Travelling Gun. Would like to shoot one though. Still want the KelTec carbine in 9mm to go with my Glocks.

One of the things I need to do is pick up an extra kerosene heater. Obviously, it comes in handy if, for whatever reason, the primary one isnt functioning, but I’ve become fascinated with this little propane number. I can run it off the 1# bottles (which I keep a few dozen on hand for powering lamps and stoves) or you can hook it up to a 20# barbecue bomb. My main reason for a secondary heater, other than redundancy, is to keep in the basement to keep the pipes from freezing. In that regard it doesnt have to keep the basement warm, it simply has to keep it above freezing…a task I think it should be up to.
=====
Picked up something ive been eyeing for the last couple months. Adventure Medical Kits Thermo-Lite Bivvy Sack..basically a space-blanket sleeping bag…but a bit more durable and with some nice features. Its twenty bucks but could prove quite useful. Other than its intended use it would seem to be ideal for adding another few degrees to the rating of a sleeping bag when used as a liner or sleeping bag cover (its cut generously enough to do so.) Like every other person out in the sticks, I carry the usual space blanket but let me tell you those things are a major pain in the ass. They are flimsy, never fold up again into as small a package, and are tough to use in windy situations. Anyway, I picked this thing up and will be testing it out at a later date. I will be packing it in my Tactical Tailor bag when Im out hunting this year. Ive never been forced to spend the night out on a trip due to unforseen circumstances (ie. getting lost) but Ive come really, really close a few times. Just from inspecting this thing, laying it out and climbing in, etc, I can say that its definitely an improvemtn over the cheap space blankets…would probably be great when used in conjunction with one.
=====
Kel-Tec has an updated version of their SU-16 folding .223 carbine…the SU-16B is shorter and features better sights. Still uses an AK-style gas system and takes AR mags. A serious contender for a Travelling Gun. Would like to shoot one though. Still want the KelTec carbine in 9mm to go with my Glocks.

Originally published at Notes from the bunker…. You can comment here or there.

Refilled the kerosene heaters and lamps the other day…this was a task that was on my perpetual “To Do” list that I had been ignoring. It occurred to me that I need to get a second kero heater for the basement to keep the pipes from freezing in the event of a lengthy power outage. A good heater, with a couple extra wicks, is going to be about $150 but thats a whole lot cheaper than frozen busted pipes. And, of course, having spare gear is always nice to have in case anything happens to your primary gear.
=====
The election is drawing closer and Im still expecting to hear “We interrupt this broadcast for a special report…” at any moment. One thing that I love about living where I am is that if someone nuked NY, or L.A., or even Seattle the immediate effect on me is fairly small. Im remote enough from most of those locations that the only effect to me would be in what government response is (i.e. martial law, new laws, etc). I suppose if Seattle got nuked or something thered be a stream of refugees headed in this direction but even then I’d have about a nine-hour headsup until they got here. On the other hand I do know people who live in what could be called ‘target rich areas’ who would be driving on the roads with the other panicked populace trying to pull their kids out of school and their spouses out of work so they could hunker down together…a scenario I would not want to have to deal with. (Although I *could* if I had to.)
=====
Which reminds me, I need to pick up some 5-gallon fuel cans, load em up with treated gas and stick ‘em away somewhere (with the usual rotation schedule). If anything big did happen, gasoline will be highly prized and if theres a power problem those pumps at the station aint gonna work. Having to leave town in a hurry and only having 1/4 tank of gas is seriously bad mojo for your projected lifespan. Even in a more casual environment, its nice to know you can drive all night if you have to and not worry about gas stations being closed.
=====
My local Albertson’s has a “10 for $10″ sale every week. They mark a a couple dozen items down to a buck each and then promote them. Every week or so it changes to a new group of things. Usually theres at least a few items work for me and my needs. I just noticed they had Chunky soup, in pull-top (very important) cans, $1 ea. Gonna have to pick up a case of that. Toothbrushes also on sale…need a few of those. Canned goods are usually on sale and that gives me an opportunity to stock up. They had 28 oz. cans of pears a while back and I bought a case of them and after chilling them in the fridge they made an outstnding snack. Canned goods…mmmmmmmmmm.

I think one of the hallmarks of ‘maturing’ in your preperations is when you get past the guns-n-camouflage stage (not that there is anything wrong with it) and focus on food even more than you did on guns. Im always touching up and adding a little bit here and there to my stockpile of ammo and guns but for the most part Im 95% done with the gun aspect. I just need to keep buying ammo and pick up another rifle or two. These days Im more interested in energy and food.
=====
Picked up another book offa my Amazon list….its on water storage, treatment, etc, etc, including pond construction, wells and well pumps, plumbing systems, etc, etc. I’ve actually amassed a pretty respectable collection of books on the various topics the savvy survivor needs to know…first aid, food storage, concrete construction, methods of making ID, radio communications, etc, etc, etc. Really, information is the best tool you can have…heck, McGuyver never had more than a stupid Swiss Army Knife but he kicked ass because he knew things.

Refilled the kerosene heaters and lamps the other day…this was a task that was on my perpetual “To Do” list that I had been ignoring. It occurred to me that I need to get a second kero heater for the basement to keep the pipes from freezing in the event of a lengthy power outage. A good heater, with a couple extra wicks, is going to be about $150 but thats a whole lot cheaper than frozen busted pipes. And, of course, having spare gear is always nice to have in case anything happens to your primary gear.
=====
The election is drawing closer and Im still expecting to hear “We interrupt this broadcast for a special report…” at any moment. One thing that I love about living where I am is that if someone nuked NY, or L.A., or even Seattle the immediate effect on me is fairly small. Im remote enough from most of those locations that the only effect to me would be in what government response is (i.e. martial law, new laws, etc). I suppose if Seattle got nuked or something thered be a stream of refugees headed in this direction but even then I’d have about a nine-hour headsup until they got here. On the other hand I do know people who live in what could be called ‘target rich areas’ who would be driving on the roads with the other panicked populace trying to pull their kids out of school and their spouses out of work so they could hunker down together…a scenario I would not want to have to deal with. (Although I *could* if I had to.)
=====
Which reminds me, I need to pick up some 5-gallon fuel cans, load em up with treated gas and stick ’em away somewhere (with the usual rotation schedule). If anything big did happen, gasoline will be highly prized and if theres a power problem those pumps at the station aint gonna work. Having to leave town in a hurry and only having 1/4 tank of gas is seriously bad mojo for your projected lifespan. Even in a more casual environment, its nice to know you can drive all night if you have to and not worry about gas stations being closed.
=====
My local Albertson’s has a “10 for $10” sale every week. They mark a a couple dozen items down to a buck each and then promote them. Every week or so it changes to a new group of things. Usually theres at least a few items work for me and my needs. I just noticed they had Chunky soup, in pull-top (very important) cans, $1 ea. Gonna have to pick up a case of that. Toothbrushes also on sale…need a few of those. Canned goods are usually on sale and that gives me an opportunity to stock up. They had 28 oz. cans of pears a while back and I bought a case of them and after chilling them in the fridge they made an outstnding snack. Canned goods…mmmmmmmmmm.

I think one of the hallmarks of ‘maturing’ in your preperations is when you get past the guns-n-camouflage stage (not that there is anything wrong with it) and focus on food even more than you did on guns. Im always touching up and adding a little bit here and there to my stockpile of ammo and guns but for the most part Im 95% done with the gun aspect. I just need to keep buying ammo and pick up another rifle or two. These days Im more interested in energy and food.
=====
Picked up another book offa my Amazon list….its on water storage, treatment, etc, etc, including pond construction, wells and well pumps, plumbing systems, etc, etc. I’ve actually amassed a pretty respectable collection of books on the various topics the savvy survivor needs to know…first aid, food storage, concrete construction, methods of making ID, radio communications, etc, etc, etc.  Really, information is the best tool you can have…heck, McGuyver never had more than a stupid Swiss Army Knife but he kicked ass because he knew things.

Originally published at Notes from the bunker…. You can comment here or there.

If I dont get my ass moving in regards to being more vigilant in my preparing for [insert apocalyptic event here], theyre gonna demote me to Lt. Commander Zero.
=====
The road to hell is paved with good intentions which means Ive been dropping paving stones like mad. Ive had a bunch of things ive been meaning to do and accomplished none of them. The biggest is that I keep threatening to work on shelving for the bunker and never do it. Then I need to refill the kerosene heater and lamps. And yet when I get back to the house in the evenings Im more likely to plunk my heavily armored ass into a chair and dink around on the computer until bedtime or watch TV. Veddy, veddy bad.
=====
Post-apocalyptic fiction is always entertaining for me. Im currently reading The Rift… a 1,000 page tome about an 8.9 earthquake in the New Madrid area….home of one of the biggest earthquakes the US has ever seen. Very reminiscent of ‘Lucifers Hammer’ with a blatantly obvious retelling of Huckleberry Finn thrown in. Entertaining though. I always like these kinds of books because it makes me think of possible scenarios, situations or problems Im ight not otherwise have thought of. (Much like how ‘Farnahms Freehold’ makes you think ‘hmm…maybe I should get a wheelbarrow’).
=====
Gun show in Kalispell this weekend. Perhaps an opportunity to pick up a few more parachute flares.
=====
A bit less than three weeks to the election. Im doing ok on 10/22 mags, fair on AR mags, not so hot on Glock mags. I am still waiting for ‘the other shoe to drop’ in regards to some sort of high-profile ‘hey, we’re still a viable terrorist organization’ stunt from the usual suspects.

If I dont get my ass moving in regards to being more vigilant in my preparing for [insert apocalyptic event here], theyre gonna demote me to Lt. Commander Zero.
=====
The road to hell is paved with good intentions which means Ive been dropping paving stones like mad. Ive had a bunch of things ive been meaning to do and accomplished none of them. The biggest is that I keep threatening to work on shelving for the bunker and never do it. Then I need to refill the kerosene heater and lamps. And yet when I get back to the house in the evenings Im more likely to plunk my heavily armored ass into a chair and dink around on the computer until bedtime or watch TV. Veddy, veddy bad.
=====
Post-apocalyptic fiction is always entertaining for me. Im currently reading The Rift… a 1,000 page tome about an 8.9 earthquake in the New Madrid area….home of one of the biggest earthquakes the US has ever seen. Very reminiscent of ‘Lucifers Hammer’ with a blatantly obvious retelling of Huckleberry Finn thrown in. Entertaining though. I always like these kinds of books because it makes me think of possible scenarios, situations or problems Im ight not otherwise have thought of. (Much like how ‘Farnahms Freehold’ makes you think ‘hmm…maybe I should get a wheelbarrow’).
=====
Gun show in Kalispell this weekend. Perhaps an opportunity to pick up a few more parachute flares.
=====
A bit less than three weeks to the election. Im doing ok on 10/22 mags, fair on AR mags, not so hot on Glock mags. I am still waiting for ‘the other shoe to drop’ in regards to some sort of high-profile ‘hey, we’re still a viable terrorist organization’ stunt from the usual suspects.