@alittlebitofme those are all great examples and breakdowns of what I wrote. I recommend the Bear Grylls fire starter. I have made hundreds of cotton balls coated in 100% petroleum jelly. I would also recommend learning the primitive methods of fire making and urge everyone to head on over to youtube and subscribe to Primitive Technologies. The man is amazing and can show you the simple processes for some of the most critical skills we need.

And I can't agree more with you in respects to learning how to use a firearm. For those who think its a movie and that you can just pick one up, fire it and hit all your targets are in for a rude awakening! Find your local gun range and check if they offer a rental program (most do) and go shoot a few rounds. I personally started with a S&W MP Shield 9 and that gun has become my baby! I also own an AR 15 fully modded. Take the time to learn how to take your gun(s) apart, clean them and understand how they work. When SHTF your firearm will be your most precious means of self defense. I would also add a set of good knives both hand to hand and tactical. They never run out of bullets and a sword or hunting knife could mean life or death.

Learning how to start planting is also critical and one must keep in mind that each type of food has its own growing habits and of course, a certain amount of time before harvest. Make sure your seeds vault contains organic corn, organic wheat if possible and hemp. I mention hemp because if bugging out becomes an extended ordeal then hemp provides a plethora of uses. Start studying how to use hemp to its fullest potential. I grow several of my seeds right inside my apartment. Learn how to do the work of the bees and how to pollinate.....

I have three Beofang radios with all the presets programmed which is quite easy.

All in all the information provided by the commenter is invaluable. Food, Water, Fire Arms, Seeds, Radios, Precious Metals...Folks, silver right now sits at $16 an ounce....Experts say it may shoot to $1200 an ounce..Its a no brainer...they will have to correct themselves once the Fiat system crashes....