« Letter Re: Short Term Survival or Long Term Self-Sufficiency? |Main

Friday November 20 2009

Note from JWR:

The special sale on the "Rawles Gets You Ready" family preparedness course is in full swing. There are just a handful of copies of the bonus book still available. (A free copy of my latest nonfiction book, "How to Survive the End of the World as We Know It".) Today (Friday) is the last day to order to get your bonus book. By the time Saturday's blog goes up this evening, the free books will no longer be available.

« Lessons Leaned from a Wildfire Evacuation, by Daniel in Montana |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday November 17 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 25 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 25 ends on November 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Over-Planning: Get Thine Act Together! |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Monday November 16 2009

Notes from JWR:

Update: There have been a large volume of orders received for the 33%-off sale for the "Rawles Gets You Ready" family preparedness course. I just heard from Jake Stafford of Arbogast Publishing, that they've already used up about half of their available supply of copies of "How to Survive the End of the World as We Know It". So order your course soon, if you want to get one of the free bonus books!

---

I noticed that we've surpassed 12 million unique visits, and we're about to reach the milestone of 8,000 archived articles, letters, and quotes for SurvivalBlog. Please let your friends know about SurvivalBlog, especially that all of the archives are available free of charge. We don't charge any fees, or have any "special member access areas". Our Ten Cent Challenge subscriptions are entirely voluntary! A link to SurvivalBlog in your e-mail footer or in your web page would be greatly appreciated! Oh, and please mention that you read SurvivalBlog when you write your obligatory annual Christmas letter. Many Thanks!

« Letter Re: Legality of "Law Enforcement Only" Marked Full-Capacity Magazines? |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday November 15 2009

Note from JWR:

A special two-week 25% off sale on canned Mountain House foods began this morning (Sunday, November 15th) at Ready Made Resources. (One of our most loyal advertisers.) For even greater savings, they are offering free shipping on full (unbroken) cases lots. But because of the higher handling costs, if you "mix and match" cans within cases, shipping will be charged.

« Fire Suppression for the Present, and for Post-TEOTWAWKI, by Keith H. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday November 14 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 25 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 25 ends on November 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Solar Electric Vehicles for TEOTWAWKI, by Pete Montgomery |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday November 11 2009

Notes from JWR:

Today, 11/11, is Veteran's Day in the US (aka Remembrance Day or Poppy Day in Canada), when we honor the hundreds of thousands of men that have selflessly served, and often bled and died, in the defense of our Republic. If you have a relative that served, please send them a thank you note or e-mail, or give them a call , to thank them for their service.

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In response to my recent comment about the Federal Tax credit available for some electric vehicles, where I mentioned Eco E ATVs and Bad Boy Buggies, I received this contributed article. Although it is essentially promotional, it includes some very useful information. Please note that I have not made an endorsement of any particular brand. Do your own research on the specifications, reliability, and relative merits of electric ATVs from different makers! Take note of the Dec. 31st deadline to make a purchase and take delivery, and get verification in writing that the model you choose has been certified as eligible for the tax credit!

« Two Letters Re: Food Grade HDPE Storage Buckets |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Monday November 9 2009

Note from JWR:

The special sale price on the "Rawles Gets You Ready" family preparedness course from Arbogast Publishing began Friday night, and will run until November 30th. Just the first folks that order will also get a free copy of my book "How to Survive the End of the World as We Know It", so order soon! The course is designed to get a family's food storage squared away in a hurry, by stocking up on bulks foods, most efficiently a "big box" store such as a COSTCO. Oh, and speaking of COSTCO, my new book is now being sold there (for around $12), and is featured in their latest "COSTCO Connection" member newsletter. The sale ends on November 30th. But again, the free copies of my book "How to Survive the End of the World as We Know It" won't last nearly that long.

« Survival Preparation on Low or Fixed Incomes, by Shawna M. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday November 7 2009

Notes from JWR:

I just heard that Brent S. (the author of the recently-posted letter "Preps and Minimizing My Debts Paid Off When Unemployed"), has been awarded a free "Rawles Gets You Ready" family preparedness course binder and audio CD. The special "Inspiration Award" was made by Jake Stafford, of Arbogast Publishing.

Speaking of the course, a special 33% off sale began Friday evening. The first few hundred people that order will also receive a complimentary copy of my new bestseller nonfiction book, "How to Survive the End of the World as We Know It", so order soon. Because of the heavy demand, you can expect an up to two week delay before receiving your copy of the course. Thanks for your patience. The sale ends on November 30th.

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Today we present another entry for Round 25 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 25 ends on November 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« How to Capitalize on Urine, Car Batteries, Wood Ashes, Bones and Bird Schumer, by Jeff M. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday November 4 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 25 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 25 ends on November 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Reader Poll Results: Your Favorite Movies with Survival Themes |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday November 3 2009

Note from JWR:

I just got word from James Talmage Stevens, the author of the book Making the Best of Basics - Family Preparedness Handbook (just greatly expanded and revised, for the 11th Edition), that he is extending the special sale price on the book, just for SurvivalBlog readers. If you wait another day, the price will go up by $5, so order your copy before midnight, tonight. (Tuesday.)

« The Flash to Bang Count: Observations on the October Indonesian Asteroid Airburst |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Monday November 2 2009

Note from JWR:

I just heard that the unabridged audiobook of my novel "Patriots" read by award-winning narrator Dick Hill is scheduled for release in late December. It will be available on CD from Brilliance Audiobooks, and it can already be pre-ordered.

« Letter Re: Retreat Security: I Am Your Worst Nightmare |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday November 1 2009

Note from JWR:

I'm pleased to report that another retreat listed on SurvivalRealty.com property has just sold. (The "Turn-key" retreat near Sandpoint, Idaho.) Be sure to check out the many new SurvivalRealty.com listings, including properties in Montana, Wyoming, New Mexico, Oregon, Washington, and Idaho. Also, be advised that the seller of a unique underground home in Colorado has re-listed the property, at a reduced price. We are very pleased that our "spin-off" web site has been so successful in connecting retreat property buyers and sellers. If you have a property for sale that has retreat potential, then please consider advertising it on SurvivalRealty. Full description listings with photos cost just $30 per month, and we charge NO sales commissions! You keep 100% of the proceeds.

« The Dumpster List, by InfoRodeo |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday October 31 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 25 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 25 ends on November 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Retreat Security: I Am Your Worst Nightmare, by Jeff T. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday October 30 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 25 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 25 ends on November 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Precious Metals in Context: Prudence, Moderation and Balance, by Gentleman Jim from Colorado |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday October 28 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 25 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 25 ends on November 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Letter Re: A Geographically Isolated Retreat Locale: Republic, Washington |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday October 27 2009

Note from JWR:

My sincere thanks to the dozens of SurvivalBlog readers that have donated more than $9,000 to the Linda Rawles Memorial Fund, that benefits The Anchor Institute Orphanage and School, in rural Zambia. With just a bit more, they'll be able to buy a modest photovoltaic power system. Thanks again for supporting this very worthy charity, in my late wife's name. Your donations are fully tax deductible.

« Survival Novels as Useful Preparedness Parables, by W.E. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday October 25 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 25 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 25 ends on November 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Noise, Light, and Litter Discipline, by Survival Ranger |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday October 24 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 25 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The author is an active duty US Army infantry NCO who is a graduate of the US Army Ranger School.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 25 ends on November 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Selecting and Caring for a Provider, Defender, and Companion, by Survival Ranger |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday October 23 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 25 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The author is an active duty US Army infantry NCO who is a graduate of the US Army Ranger School.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 25 ends on November 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Lessons Learned from Hurricanes Ike, Rita, and Katrina, by TiredTubes |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Thursday October 22 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present an entry for Round 25 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. You may recognize the author's pen name, as he has recently contributed several informative letters on vacuum tube generation radios to SurvivalBlog

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 25 ends on November 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Wood Stove Selection, Operation, and Safety, by Kevin K. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday October 20 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 25 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 25 ends on November 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Prepping for the Worst Case: Becoming a Refugee, by Dr. L.D. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday October 18 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 25 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 25 ends on November 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Square Foot Gardening, by N.C. Gardener |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday October 17 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 25 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 25 ends on November 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Getting Prepared for EMP or a Solar Storm, by David in Israel |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday October 16 2009

Note from JWR:

Today's first post comes from SurvivalBlog's volunteer correspondent in Israel, an American expatriate.

« Perspectives on Roughing It and Covert Car Camping, by Jolly |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Thursday October 15 2009

Notes from JWR:

I'm pleased to report that there have been more than $7,000 in donations received for the Linda Rawles Memorial Fund, that supports an orphanage and school in rural Zambia. Thusfar, donations have come from 36 of the 50 states, Australia, and Canada. Those that have made donations will soon receive a confirmation letter, with certification that can be used for tax purposes. (Your donations are fully tax deductible.) Many thanks for your generous donations. As per Linda's request before her death, they have been earmarked for self-sufficiency projects for the orphanage including a grain mill, a new banana grove (more than 300 banana trees have just recently been planted), and new crop cultivation. (For instance, a new bean field was just planted.) Photovoltaic power for the orphanage and school is also planned, and you can help make it happen. OBTW, any doctors, PAs, dentists, and nurses that have time available are welcome to volunteer for the planned medical assistance rotation to the Anchor School. Please e-mail Anchor of Hope's founder Judy Kendall, for details.

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Today we present another entry for Round 25 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 25 ends on November 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Water, Water Everywhere?, by David in Israel |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday October 14 2009

Note from JWR:

Today's first post comes from SurvivalBlog's volunteer correspondent in Israel, an American expatriate with a varied background as an outdoorsman, firefighter, food inspector, and most recently, a Torah scholar.

« Food Storage--A Necessary Preparation, by Melanie G. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday October 13 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 25 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 25 ends on November 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« What Recovery? Find Yourself a Recoveryless Job |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Monday October 12 2009

Notes from JWR:

I've added The SurvivalBlog Gold World Coin Melt Value Calculator (Excel Spreadsheet) to our Investing page, courtesy of reader Eric C. (He also developed the The SurvivalBlog Silver World Coin Melt Value Calculator.) Thanks, Eric!
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Today's blog posts include one from SurvivalBlog's volunteer correspondent in Israel, an American expatriate.

« Heating With Wood, by SGT B. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday October 11 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 25 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 25 ends on November 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Where You Live Matters: How to Assess Your Location and Develop Scenarios, by Brendan S. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday October 9 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 25 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 25 ends on November 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Hard Love Preparedness Upbringing, by FBP |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Thursday October 8 2009

Notes from JWR:

Wow! We recently set two new records: 31,898 unique visits in one day, and a whopping 46.2 Gigabytes of traffic. My sincere thanks for spreading the word about SurvivalBlog. Please continue to do so, by adding a link to your web site, blog, or e-mail footer. Thanks!

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Today we present another entry for Round 25 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 25 ends on November 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Poll Results: SurvivalBlog Reader's Favorite Survivalist Fiction |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday October 7 2009

Note from JWR:

Sorry about the delay, but here are the result's of last month's poll. Today, I'm starting a new poll: What are your favorite movies with survival themes? Please e-mail me a list of your top five picks. Thanks! I'll post the results sometime early in November.

« Is Prepping an Insurmountable Task?--The Beginner's Primer, by Gary T. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday October 6 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 25 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 25 ends on November 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Travel Security, by CapnRick in Argentina (Part 2 of 2) |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday October 4 2009

Notes from JWR:

I'm scheduled to be guest on the Laura Ingraham syndicated talk radio show tomorrow (Monday, October 5th), to discuss preparedness topics, from 11:15 AM to 11:45 AM Eastern Time (8:15 AM to 8:45 AM Pacific Time.) She is heard on more than 300 radio stations, on XM Radio, and on the Internet in both live streaming and podcasts.

--- 

Today we present Part 2 of a lengthy entry for Round 25 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 25 ends on November 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Travel Security, by CapnRick in Argentina (Part 1 of 2) |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday October 3 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present Part 1 of a lengthy entry for Round 25 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. Part 2 will be posted tomorrow.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 25 ends on November 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Applying For a Non-Resident Concealed Carry Weapons Permit/License, by Sgt. Survival |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday October 2 2009

Notes from JWR:

The demand for my new nonfiction book has been so strong that Penguin Books has increased their printing orders twice in the past 48 hours. They now expect to have a total of 50,000 copies in print by the middle of October. Amazon.com has ordered so many copies that they've been able to drop their retail price to just $9.35 each.

---

Today we present the first entry for Round 25 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 25 ends on November 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Writing Contest Winners - Round 24 |Main| #1 Son's Quote of the Day: »

Thursday October 1 2009

Notes from JWR:

My sincere thanks for making the Book Bomb Day a great success! When I last checked, my new book was ranked at #4 in Amazon.com's overall book rankings. Only the new Dan Brown novel, the upcoming Sarah Palin book, and Glenn Beck's book are ranked higher. How to Survive the End of the World as We Know It is also ranked #1 in the Survival Skills category, #1 in the Technology & Society category, #1 in the General & Reference category, and #2 in nonfiction books. Thanks again! At this rate, the publisher will soon have to order a second printing. (The first printing was 20,000 copies.)

OBTW, so that Amazon doesn't get all the business, be advised that there are many other outlets for How to Survive the End of the World as We Know It. These sources include:

Barnes & Noble

Books-A-Million

Borders

Indie Bound - This is a coalition of independent booksellers. While they don’t sell directly from the web site, they direct customers to their nearest independent bookstore. The customer enters a zip code to find the nearest independent bookseller, then the customer can order through that specific seller’s site, or go pick it up at the store. Support you local book store!

My book should also soon be available soon as a regularly-stocked item at "bricks and mortar" bookstores.

Once again, thank you!

« C&R FFL, Milsurp Firearms and Your Survival Battery, by The Alchemist |Main| #1 Son's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday September 30 2009

Notes from JWR:

Today is "Book Bomb" Day for my new book, "How to Survive the End of the World as We Know It: Tactics, Techniques, and Technologies for Uncertain Times". My goal for the Book Bomb is a surge of orders is that will drive the book's Amazon sales rank into the top 50, overall. (When I last checked, it was at #160.) Many thanks for waiting to order until today!!

---

My scheduled guest appearance on the Laura Ingraham talk radio show has been postponed to Monday, October 5th. Sorry about the late notice.

---

Today we present the final entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.)A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail your entry for Round 25. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Hypothermia Prevention and Treatment Part 1--Staying Warm, by Lumberjack |Main| #1 Son's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday September 29 2009

Notes from JWR:

Tomorrow is "Book Bomb" Day! For maximum effect, please place your Amazon book order on Wednesday, September 30th. Many thanks!

---

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.)A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your article for Round 25. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Five Preparedness Lessons Learned, by Allen C. |Main| #1 Son's Quote of the Day: »

Monday September 28 2009

Notes from JWR:

Just two days to "Book Bomb" day for my new book, "How to Survive the End of the World as We Know It: Tactics, Techniques, and Technologies for Uncertain Times". My goal for the day is to create a surge of orders to drive the book's Amazon sales rank into the Top 100, overall. So please wait until September 30th to order. Thanks!

---

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.)A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th. Get busy writing an article for Round 25. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Amateur Radio for the Rest of Us, by Jim in Illinois |Main| #1 Son's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday September 27 2009

Note from JWR:

Please wait until "Book Bomb" Day-- September 30th -- to place your order for my new book, "How to Survive the End of the World as We Know It: Tactics, Techniques, and Technologies for Uncertain Times". They won't be able to ship until then, anyway. Thanks!

---

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.)A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Small Breed Dogs--Nature's Leatherman Tool, by B.C. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday September 26 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.)A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Preparedness Information for Diabetics, by Chuck Fenwick |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday September 25 2009

Note from JWR:

Please wait until "Book Bomb" Day-- Wednesday, September 30th -- to place your order for my new book, "How to Survive the End of the World as We Know It: Tactics, Techniques, and Technologies for Uncertain Times". They won't be able to ship until then, anyway. Thanks!

« Tactical River Crossings--An Emergency Alternative to Bridges, by Jacob R. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Thursday September 24 2009

Notes from JWR:

I was recently quoted briefly in a Dallas newspaper article about Radius Engineering: Explosive ingenuity; Walton McCarthy designs modern-day underground shelters to protect clients from long-term effects of disasters.

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.)A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Letter Re: Think of Preparedness as Insurance |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday September 23 2009

Note from JWR:

My #1 Son has created a static memorial page for my late wife, Linda ("The Memsahib"). This new page includes a link to the newly-established Linda Rawles Memorial Fund for her favorite charity, Anchor of Hope Charities. They are the main sponsor of the Anchor Institute, a Christian school and orphanage in rural Zambia. It is a very deserving charity, with hardly any overhead expenses. You can make a tax-deductible donation via PayPal or by check. My thanks to the more than 100 SurvivalBlog readers that have already sent contributions totaling nearly $4,825 to this worthy charity! May God Bless You.

« Letter Re: Grub and Gear--Lessons Learned from an Alaskan Trapper |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday September 22 2009

Note from JWR:

My forthcoming nonfiction book "How to Survive the End of the World as We Know It" includes several pages of material that is redundant to my currently published book "SurvivalBlog: The Best of the Blog". So I 've decided to discontinue self-publishing the latter. If you'd like your own copy of "SurvivalBlog: The Best of the Blog" then be sure to order one before September 30th, when it will be dropped from the Clearwater Press products page.

« Squeezing Efficiency Out of Every Second of Your Workday to Provide Quality Relaxation Time, by KAF |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday September 20 2009

Notes from JWR:

In answer to those of you that have asked: Please wait until "Book Bomb" Day -- September 30th -- to place your order for my forthcoming nonfiction book, "How to Survive the End of the World as We Know It: Tactics, Techniques, and Technologies for Uncertain Times". Dealers won't be able to ship it until then, anyway. With the Book Bomb event, I hope to drive the book's sales rank into Amazon's Top 100, overall. Because of the strength of the pre-orders (even though I've asked people to delay ordering!) Penguin Books has increased the size of the first press run order to 20,000 copies. Even the though the book is still more than a week from release, its Amazon Sales Rank is already below #400, overall, out of four million cataloged titles.

---

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.)A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Economics and Investing: |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday September 19 2009

Note from JWR:

Today's entry is brief, as we prepare for a small family memorial gathering to honor the life of my late wife Linda ("The Memsahib") who passed away last weekend. My sincere thanks to the 40+ readers that have made Linda Rawles Memorial Fund contributions to benefit the Anchor Orphanage and School in Zambia. (Linda's favorite charity.) God bless you!

« Bug Out and Refugee Considerations, by Brad T. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Thursday September 17 2009

Note from JWR:

Thanks for all of your prayers, in our family's time of profound grief. I'm presently doing my best to cope, but I'm still in the "bouts of sobbing" stage. If it were not for the certain knowledge that Linda (my late wife) is in heaven, and awaits reunion with all of Christ's elect, then I'd be totally distraught.

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. It was written by a US Border Patrol agent.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.)A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Influenza Pandemic Update: |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday September 16 2009

Notes from JWR:

Most of today's blog content again comes courtesy of Cheryl. Thanks, Cheryl!

---

Don't miss my note about Michael Yon's blog, down in the Odds 'n Sods section.

« Economics and Investing: |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday September 15 2009

Note from JWR:

Many thanks for your prayers in this difficult time for our family. I'm still in shock and getting my bearings. Special thanks to Cheryl (aka "The Economatrix") who is taking up the slack on most of the editing while our family is mourning the loss of The Memsahib.

« A Sad Announcement: May The Memsahib Rest in Peace |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Monday September 14 2009

An Apology, In Advance

My apologies if my blog postings the next few weeks are irregular and not up to snuff during our time of grief. It will be some time before my life, and the lives of my children get back to some semblance of normalcy. During this lull, I encourage you to delve into the nearly 7,500 searchable archived SurvivalBlog posts. Thanks for your patience.

« Linda's Favorite Hymn |Main| An Apology, In Advance »

Sunday September 13 2009

A Sad Announcement: May The Memsahib Rest in Peace

After more than a year of struggle, my wife Linda (aka The Memsahib) has passed away.

My heart is utterly broken, but I take solace knowing that she had a firm and saving faith in God, through his Grace to His Elect, and by the merit of Christ's shed blood. We'll meet again, in heaven.

« Note from JWR: |Main| Linda's Favorite Hymn »

Memorial Services and Condolences

We are not planning a public memorial service. Please do not send cards or e-mails of condolence. Linda told me that she would much prefer that that you spend that time and effort in sharing the Gospel of Christ with those that are unsaved.

If you feel convicted to do anything in memory of Linda, then please support our favorite charity, the Anchor orphanage and school in Zambia. They are setting up a Linda Rawles Memorial Fund. I will post details on donations, in the next few days. Thanks for your prayers.

With sincerity, - James Wesley, Rawles

The posts below the following divider were posted before Linda's death.

« How to be a Civilian Operator--Training Just 8 Hours Per Week, by Cody H. |Main| Memorial Services and Condolences »

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.)A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« The Disaster Garden--What's Not in the Can, by C. the Old Farmer |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday September 12 2009

Notes from JWR:

Your prayers for The Memsahib would be greatly appreciated. Her remaining life in this mortal world will probably be just a few days. She is secure in her faith in Christ Jesus. I pray that you share our steadfast faith.

---

I heard that our friend Jeff created a real tempest in a teapot, with his edits to the Wikipedia page on the Mayors Against Illegal Guns Coalition. Be sure to copy and paste it before the Politically Correct crowd eviscerates it.

---

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.)A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« One Woman's View of Budget Preparedness, by Lisa L. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday September 11 2009

Notes from JWR:

This is the day we remember the 2,975 Americans that died as a result of the September 11, 2001 Islamist terrorist attacks (2,751 of them at the World Trade Center). We must remain vigilant and well-prepared, both individually, and as a nation. If you don't yet have your logistics together, and haven't yet got the requisite training, then you're way behind he power curve.

---

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.)A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Prepare to Garden Like Your Life Depends on It, by Prepared in Maine |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday September 9 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.)A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Preparing for Uncertain Times--A Simple Guide to Getting Ready, by Mr. and Mrs. Joe Patriot |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday September 8 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.)A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $350 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« You're Not (Yet) Prepared, by Ted B. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday September 5 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $345 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Letter Re: Thoughts on Shedding Bad Habits, and Developing Good Ones |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Thursday September 3 2009

Note from JWR:

After the large response to SurvivalBlog's July survey on non-fiction books, I'm starting a new one: What are Your Favorite Survivalist Fiction Books? Please e-mail us a list of your top 5-to-10 favorites, with the e-mail title "Books Survey Input". If you'd like. you can also include another list of your favorite Survivalist Fiction Books for children and young adults. I'll post the results in about three weeks. Thanks!

« Developing Our Family's Survival Strategy, by FBP |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday September 1 2009

Notes from JWR:

Courtesy of SurvivalBlog reader M.E., I have posted a new downloadable Excel spreadsheet: Silver World Coin Melt Value Calculator. You might find this a helpful shortcut, especially since circulating coin weights are expressed in grams, while silver is typically sold (and quoted daily) by the troy ounce. In assembling the table, M.E. used the oft-quoted coin weight data available in books like the Standard Catalog of World Coins 1901-2000, and in the Charlton's Standard Catalogue of Canadian Coins. This spreadsheet will be kept available at my Investing static page, indefinitely. Thanks, M.E., I owe you a favor! Thanks also to reader Eric C. who kindly expanded the spreadsheet to include US Mint silver coins.

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Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $345 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Forest Fires and TEOTWAWKI, by J.B. in Florida |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday August 30 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $345 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Real-Life Inspiration for Preparedness, by K.P. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday August 29 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $345 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Know Thy Neighbor, by "The Old Salt" in Virginia |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday August 28 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $345 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Basic Survival Skills for Children, by M.L. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday August 26 2009

Notes from JWR:

Today I got an e-mail from my old friend "Jeff Trasel", who mentioned that he had just spent several gleeful hours updating Wikipedia's page on the Mayors Against Illegal Guns Coalition. He said: "Take a look at the new section on Indicted, convicted, and scandalized members. The utter hypocrisy of these scoundrels is fantabulous! They outta to re-name the organization: 'Mayors (Only a Few of Whom are Thieves, Bribe-Takers, Civil Rights Violators, Money-Launderers, Influence-Peddlers, Defrauders, Philanderers, NFA Violators, Extortionists, Perjurers, Commie Sympathizers, and Pedophiles) Against Illegal Guns (Except of Course Our Own) Coalition.' Oh, I gotta mention: The incarceration rate in the United States is approximately 509 per 100,000, but if all of the currently-charged members of the Mayors Against Illegal Guns Coalition are convicted, their conviction rate would equate to 2,500 per 100,000, five times the national average for us lowly proles. It is hard to believe that such Ayyarun could be elected to positions of trust and confidence."

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Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $345 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Inventory Control for Retreat Logistics, by Rob C. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday August 25 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $345 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Surviving an Expedient Ambush Roadblock While Traveling by Vehicle, by M.W. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday August 22 2009

Notes from JWR:

Do you have any favorite quotations that relate to preparedness, survival, or individual liberty? Please send them via e-mail, and if they haven't been run in the blog before, I will likely post them as Quotes of the Day. Thanks!

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $345 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Camouflage: The Art of the "Liar", by T.W.P. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday August 21 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $345 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Barter Goods -- A Woman's Perspective, by "Wry Catcher" |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday August 18 2009

Notes from JWR:

The big 25% off sale on sleeping bags at Wiggy's ends in less than two weeks. Take advantage of it! OBTW, with sunspot numbers at record lows, there may be some exceptionally cold winters coming. We must never forget the lessons of the winter of 1887-1888!

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Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $345 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Inexpensive Hand Reloading Tools--Part of Budget Preparedness, by D.A.S. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Monday August 17 2009

Notes from JWR:

I was recently featured in a slightly tongue-in-cheek article in La Razon, a major newspaper in Spain: Survivalistas: preparados para lo peor.

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Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $345 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Letter Re: Viability of a Well-Stocked Suburban Retreat? |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday August 16 2009

Note from JWR:

My wife ("The Memsahib") asked me to send her thanks for your many prayers. She has felt greatly uplifted by prayer, and a great sense of peace, in anticipation of being united with the Lord. May God Bless You!

« A Primer on Gold, by Javaman |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday August 15 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $345 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Construction Without Electricity, by Curtis M. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday August 14 2009

Notes from JWR:

Your prayers would be appreciated, as The Memsahib's strength is now failing rapidly.

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $345 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Preparedness Beginnings, by "Two Dogs" |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday August 12 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $345 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Letter Re: Surviving 90 Miles from the US -- A Cuban-American Exile's View |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday August 11 2009

Note from JWR:

Don't miss out on Safecastle's current "Before the Fall" sale. At the core of the sale is a Mountain House three-case kit (18 of the big #10 size cans) that is a quick way to add a variety of high-quality freeze-dried foods to a food storage program. These cans have a shelf life of 30+ years. With a qualifying purchase of at least one of these kits, Safecastle offers four add-on packages at 33% off. As always, everything ships free to the lower 48 States. This offer is good for both Safecastle Royal buyer's club members and non-members.

« Terminal Ballistics for Big Game, by Old Dog |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Monday August 10 2009

Notes from JWR:

We've reached the milestone of 10 million unique visits for SurvivalBlog. When I first set up the blog visits counter in 2005, I thought that it would take a decade or two before we'd ever fill up all the places in an eight digit counter. My, was I wrong! Thanks for making this the world's most popular blog on survival and preparedness topics. We get more traffic than all the smaller survival and preparedness blogs, combined. Please keep spreading the word. A link to SurvivalBlog in your blog or web page would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $345 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

This article might at first glance appear to be of no interest to non-hunters or even a bit off-topic for the blog. But consider this: The same mammalian physiology principles apply to both four-legged and two-legged lead recipients. And remember: The two-legged ones shoot back, so you'll want to incapacitate your target as quickly as possible.

« Delay and Pray: Why the FDIC is Broke, by Dr. Gary North |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday August 9 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present a guest article from my mentor, Dr. Gary North. It was Gary that first inspired me to launch SurvivalBlog. I highly recommend subscribing to his free e-newsletter, Reality Check.

« Underground Survival Shelter Construction and Security--Learn from My Mistakes, by B.B. |Main| Two Letters Re: Advice on Storing Precious Metals »

Saturday August 8 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $345 value.)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Preparedness on a Very Tight Budget, by Shane M. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday August 7 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $345 value)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Incubating and Hatching Eggs for Self Reliance, by Jason C. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday August 5 2009

Notes from JWR:

I just heard that JRM, the author of the recent article "A Prepper Husband and a Stubborn Wife," has been tapped for a special "Publisher's Award" by Jake Stafford, the Publisher at Arbogast Publishing. JRM will receive a complimentary copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course. Congrats!

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Today we present another entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze dried assorted entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.) and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $345 value)

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« A Prepper Husband and a Stubborn Wife, by JRM |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday August 4 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we welcome our newest advertiser, SurvivalistSeeds.com. Be sure to visit their site.

« Yak to the Future, by Judy T. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday August 2 2009

Notes from JWR:

The first post today is a guest article about Tibetan Yaks. The Memsahib and I raised ultra-wooly black yaks, back in the mid-to-late 1990s. We found them quite easy to manage. Our first yak bull ("Yukon Yak") bred our Jersey cow, but unfortunately, she threw a bull calf. (We were hoping for a heifer.) Our senior yak cow ("Yetta") originated from a Canadian zoo, and was far from tame! But all of her offspring including our first bull calf ("Black Yak Pershing") were very gentle. I'll never forget their distinctive "Uggh, uggh" yak grunts, and the strange sight of their purple tongues!

We sold our little herd of nine yaks in 1998, since I had accepted a job with Oracle Corporation in the San Francisco Bay Area, and could not afford to buy or even rent a house with sufficient pasture land there. We really wish that we had been able to keep them. Yaks are well worth the investment, and quite easy to fence and handle. But, as with any other bovine, never turn your back on a bull!

This is the first entry for Round 24 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The winners will receive even more prizes than in previous rounds. For example, we've added a HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources., and C.) A HAZARiD Decontamination Kit from Safecastle.com. (A $345 value).

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 24 ends on September 30th, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« City Data as a Retreat Locale Search Tool |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday August 1 2009

Notes from JWR:

We've completed the judging!

The first prize winner for Round 23 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest is Mike S., for his article GPS for Day-to-Day Use and Survival. He will receive: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried entrees, in #10 cans, courtesy of Ready Made Resources. (A $392 value.)

The second prize winner is Extraman, for his article Going the Extra Mile in Amateur Communications. He will receive a "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

The third prize winner is Carla, for her article Savings and Self-Sufficiency with Homemade Laundry Detergent. She will receive a copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Runner-up prizes go to four writers:

Chris M., for It Will Be Skills, Not Gear That Will Count in TEOTWAWKI

Skyrat, for The Jump Kit

Bill in Chicagoland, for Escape From (Fill in Your City Here), 2009

Tall Sally, for Three Rules for Persuading the Sheeple

They will each receive a $30 Amazon.com gift certificate.

Note to prize winners: Please e-mail me your snail mail addresses (both UPS and US mail), and I'll get your prizes out, right away.

Today we begin Round 24 of the writing contest. Round 24 will end on September 30th, and will feature even more prizes! Get busy writing, and e-mail us your entry.

« Here Comes Winter!, by Peter H. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Thursday July 30 2009

Notes from JWR:

We have received more than 120 kind e-mails in the past 24 hours, in response to The Memsahib's "Bucket List" post on Wednesday. Thank you so much for your prayers and words of encouragement. This verse sums up the sentiment: "Let the righteous rejoice in the LORD and take refuge in him; let all the upright in heart praise Him!" - Psalm 64:10

We feel tremendously uplifted by your prayers. And for those that have asked: We are not seeking any funds for medical expenses. Instead, please send gifts to our favorite charity: Compassion International.

« From The Memsahib: On My Bucket List--Looking for a Wife |Main| Odds 'n Sods: »

Wednesday July 29 2009

Notes from JWR:

I was recently contacted by a producer for The History Channel who is making a documentary about survivalism. It is an unusual project that will include a subtext docudrama about a family that is fleeing Los Angeles in the midst of a megapandemic. He will be interviewing survivalists in Los Angeles and New York in mid-August. If you live in or near those cities and are willing to do an on-camera interview, please contact Nick Leader, via e-mail.

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Last Day! Ready Made Resources is continuing their special 25% off sale on case lots of Mountain House freeze dried foods in #10 cans, with free shipping to the Continental United States. Please don't miss out on this sale, as they don't happen very often. Stock up! The sale ends at midnight eastern time tonight. (Wednesday, July 29th.)

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Today's first post is from my wife. Many thanks for your prayers.

« Community Disaster Recovery--Asking the Right People the Right Questions |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Monday July 27 2009

Note from JWR:

Just two days left! Ready Made Resources is continuing their special 25% off sale on case lots of Mountain House freeze dried foods in #10 cans, with free shipping to the Continental United States. Please don't miss out on this sale, as they don't happen very often. Stock up! The sale ends Wednesday, July 29th.

« Distance Traveling by Waterways, by Jason C. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday July 26 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 23 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 23 ends on July 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Controlling Pain Where There is No Doctor, by Bill R. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday July 25 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 23 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 23 ends on July 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Shoot or Don't Shoot--Moral Implications of the Split-Second Decision to Take a Life, by Jeff R. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday July 24 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 23 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 23 ends on July 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Three Letters Re: The Simple Reality of EMP -- Different Than You Might Expect |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Thursday July 23 2009

Notes from JWR:

Thanks to the efforts of my agent, both Ulysses Press and Penguin books have reached separate agreements to make audio books of my novel "Patriots: A Novel of Survival in the Coming Collapse" and my upcoming nonfiction book "How to Survive the End of the World As We Know It: Tactics, Techniques, and Technologies for Uncertain Times." These will be produced by Brilliance Audio, the nation's largest audio book company. The CDs and downloadable MP3 files should be available sometime in 2010. I will post details as soon as they become available.

In other publishing news, Amazon.com now has the final cover illustration for my upcoming book "How to Survive the End of the World As We Know It" on their web site. This 336-page non-fiction book is scheduled for release on September 29th. Be advised that Amazon is already taking pre-orders, but I'd greatly appreciate it if you'd wait to order until the "Book Bomb" Day, September 29th. By massing our orders on that day, I hope to make the book a best-seller, just as we did for "Patriots" , back in April. That drove the book up to #6 in Amazon's overall rankings, and attracted lots of media attention. That was also the impetus for the contract from Simon & Schuster for two "Patriots" sequels that will be released in 2010 and 2011. Many Thanks!

« Often-Overlooked Readiness: Preparing for Joy, by Carla |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday July 22 2009

Notes from JWR:

A segment on the Today US network television show on Tuesday morning featured SurvivalBlog regular Kathy Harrison (the author of the excellent preparedness primer Just in Case), and briefly showed the SurvivalBlog web page. Another three seconds of fame. Huzzah!

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Just one week left! Ready Made Resources is continuing their special 25% off sale on case lots of Mountain House freeze dried foods in #10 cans, with free shipping to the Continental United States. Please don't miss out on this sale, as they don't happen very often. Place your order soon, since the sale ends next Wednesday.

« The Simple Reality of EMP -- Different Than You Might Expect, by Andru |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday July 21 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 23 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 23 ends on July 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Savings and Self-Sufficiency with Homemade Laundry Detergent, by Carla |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday July 18 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 23 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 23 ends on July 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Three Rules for Living Through the Second Depression, by Chaz Valenza |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday July 17 2009

Notes from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 23 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 23 ends on July 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

An Introductory Note: The writer of this article has politics that differ from my own (and probably the majority of SurvivalBlog readers). He is an eastern liberal populist, while I am a western conservative libertarian. You might wonder why I'm providing him a soapbox. I'm doing so in part to show where we have some common ground, but just as importantly because Mr. Valenza's viewpoint might become prevalent in the next few years, and protests may be coming to a neighborhood near you. Hence, if you are a mortgage holder, you might view this with alarm, while those of you that are under threat of foreclosure and eviction might see Valenza's stance as positive in some ways. If nothing else, this article illustrates a political aspect of the "we/they paradigm" that might lead to some public protests and fisticuffs in the near future. It all comes down to where you put yourself on the continuums of scale of government, access to (and resort to) force, individual liberty, and the right to own property. Where things gets fuzzy--at least for some--are the concepts of private ownership, the integrity of binding legal contracts, and the often misapplied concept of "social justice." I predict that the next decade will be tumultuous. Choose your locale well, fully consider your affiliations, prepare prudently, pick your fights carefully and deliberately, and don't get caught on the receiving end of either a billy club or a pitchfork. That is, unless you know in your heart that you truly are in the right, and engaged in a struggle worth dying for.

« Medical Insurance for Prepared American Families, by Pat C. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday July 15 2009

Notes from JWR:

For the next two weeks, starting today (Wednesday July 15), Ready Made Resources is having a special 25% off sale on case lots of Mountain House Freeze dried foods in #10 cans, with free shipping to the Continental United States. Please don't miss out on this sale, as they don't happen very often. Stock up!

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Today we present another entry for Round 23 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 23 ends on July 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

This article might at first glance seem "off topic" for SurvivalBlog. But as I can attest personally, health insurance is a vitally important preparedness measure. If it were not for our insurance, I would be presently be bankrupt and would have been forced to sell my ranch. (My wife is presently in very precarious health and has had more than $1 million in medical expenses in the past year. Thankfully, the insurance has paid for most of it.)

« GPS for Day-to-Day Use and Survival, by Mike S. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday July 14 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 23 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 23 ends on July 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Disaster Procedures: A Survival Field Guide, by A.V. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday July 11 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 23 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from onPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day onPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 23 ends on July 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« How to Build a Deeper Supply of Prescription Medications, by Pat C. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday July 10 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 23 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day OnPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 23 ends on July 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Survey Results: Your Favorite Books on Preparedness, Self-Sufficiency, and Practical Skills |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Thursday July 9 2009

Note from JWR:

Please refrain from trying to have me join you Twitter, Facebook, or any of the other social networks. Getting more than 150 e-mails per day is overwhelming, but an extra 20 to 30 e-mails proclaiming that "John Smith is following you on Twitter" is distracting to to point of annoyance. I don't respond to any of these requests. I simply don't have twime to tweet. Thwanks!

« Net Producer-Net Consumer Equations for Self-Sufficiency: Getting Out of the Pit |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday July 8 2009

Note from JWR:

Several readers have asked why I chose the Battle of Bennington Flag as the low key "OPSEC" identifier for SurvivalBlog readers. This was merely because that flag pattern is uncommon enough to stand out, yet it is nothing too controversial. (Versus, for example, a "Don't Tread On Me" rattlesnake flag!) The Bennington flag does not have any particular historic significance vis-a-vis preparedness. But the flag looks cool, and after all, at Bennington, part of Burgoyne's army got trounced.

By popular demand, I've just added Bennington Flag window/bumper stickers to my CafePress Stores. (They are also available by the 10 pack or 50 pack, at near my cost.)

« Letter Re: Some Thought on Dual-Fuel LPG Vehicles |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday July 7 2009

Note from JWR:

I was a disgusted to see the large number of U.S. flags being waved at Fourth of July celebrations that were marked "Made in China." The bitter irony of this is almost indescribable, especially when you consider that a good portion of Chinese merchandise for the American consumer market comes from laogai ("Reform Through Labor") prison factories. Do America a favor, and buy yourself an American-made flag. OBTW, I've chosen the "76" Battle of Bennington flag as the official "OPSEC-conscious" flag for SurvivalBlog readers, to identify themselves to fellow readers. And, also BTW, I just had one of my kids create Battle of Bennington Flag logo T-shirts, hats, mugs, and tote bags to add to my CafePress store, for the same purpose. (For those readers that consider it too "high profile" to wear a "SurvivalBlog" hat or T-shirt.) By wearing either a SurvivalBlog logo, or the Bennington Flag, you may providentially meet folks in your town that are fellow SurvivalBlog readers.

« Three Rules for Persuading the Sheeple, by Tall Sally |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday July 5 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 23 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day OnPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 23 ends on July 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Preparedness Through Joining the National Guard, by Christopher D. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday July 4 2009

Notes from JWR:

To my readers in the US: Happy Fourth of July. Long may our flag wave over a land of liberty!

Today we present another entry for Round 23 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day OnPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 23 ends on July 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« From Mike Williamson: Some Useful DIY Home Power Technology Web Links |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday July 3 2009

Note from JWR:

I heard that JRH Enterprises is having an Independence Day Sale on medical kits, PVS-14 night vision units, and NBC gear. Be sure to check it out!

« Practical Survival Trapping, by Jason C. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Thursday July 2 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 23 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day OnPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 23 ends on July 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Reader Survey: What Are Your Favorite Preparedness and Self-Sufficiency Books? |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday July 1 2009

Note from JWR:

The new "Best Defense: Survival" television series starts on The Outdoor Channel on July 1st. The series is hosted by Michael Bane and features Michael Z. Williamson (SurvivalBlog's Editor at Large) in short segments of each of the 10 episodes, covering disaster preparedness. The details that Mike Williamson will cover are water, food, economic preparation and communication--before a disaster, while evacuating from a disaster area, and during long-term crises. Be sure to watch this very informative and useful show!

« Letter Re: An Outward Bound Prepper's Perspective |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday June 30 2009

Note from JWR:

Some great news! Because book sales have remained strong, Amazon.com placed a huge-re-order for thousands of copies of my novel "Patriots: A Novel of Survival in the Coming Collapse". The economies of scale allowed them to drop their price to just $6.96. (They had previously sold it for more than $10, and its official cover price is still $14.95.) If you are planning to buy a few copies for birthday and Christmas gifts, then this is now your chance to get some for under $7 each!

« Ug-99 and The Ugly Times Ahead--There'll Be Fungus Among Us |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Monday June 29 2009

Note from JWR:

The folks at Ready Made Resources mentioned that they have reduced their prices on many items, and now offer free shipping on most items. I also noticed that they've re-designed their web site. In the nearly four years that they've been advertising on SurvivalBlog, I've heard nothing but good things about the customer service provided by Ready Made Resources. Whenever there has been a glitch--and that has been rare--they've always gone the extra mile to make things right. In one instance, back during the severe shortage of Mountain House foods in 2008, a large storage food order was delayed, and an angry customer cancelled the order, stopping payment on his check. But the staff of Ready Made Resources shipped out his order anyway, even after knowing that they wouldn't be paid for it. That sort of "returning kindness for wrath" is indicative of the integrity of the people that run the company. They've earned my trust, and they deserve your patronage.

« Security at Places of Worship: More Than a Matter of Faith, by Scott Stewart and Fred Burton |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday June 28 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present a guest article by two Stratfor editors. You may recall that Fred Burton is one of my contemporaries. (He was workig in the CI/HUMINT world when I was in the SIGINT world.)

« The Survivalist's Guide to Martial Arts, by "Brick" |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday June 27 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 23 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day OnPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 23 ends on July 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Avoiding Bugging Out, by Steve M. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Thursday June 25 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 23 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day OnPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 23 ends on July 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Cost Comparison: Factory Loads and Reloaded Ammunition, by Grandpappy |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday June 24 2009

Note from JWR:

Today's first item is an article that was kindly contributed by Grandpappy--a past winner of SurvivalBlog's ongoing nonfiction writing contest.

« The Jump Kit, by Skyrat |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday June 23 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 23 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. I think that you'll find this one both informative and quite entertaining.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day OnPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 23 ends on July 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Going the Extra Mile in Amateur Communications, by Extraman |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Monday June 22 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 23 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day OnPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 23 ends on July 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Seven Letters Re: Advice on Deep Water Wells in a Grid-Down Era |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday June 21 2009

Note from JWR:

Please let your friends and relatives know that SurvivalBlog is available as an RSS feed. (Just click on the "RSS" button in the top bar.) Also, be sure to mention that the entirety of the SurvivalBlog Archives (almost 7,000 articles and letters, thusfar) are available free of charge.

« U.S. Dollar: the Good, the Bad and the Ugly, by Axel Merk |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday June 20 2009

Notes from JWR:

Several readers mentioned the video clip available of Sean Hannity's recent special report: Urban Survivalists. OBTW, you will note that just over three minutes into the YouTube clip that Neil Strauss (the author of the poplar book "Emergency" ) displays his survival bookshelf a copy of "Patriots".

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Today we present a guest article by Axel Merk. Be sure to check out his new blog.

« It Will Be Skills, Not Gear That Will Count in TEOTWAWKI, by Chris M. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday June 16 2009

Notes from JWR:

I've heard just three complaints about bookbinding errors, in copies of my novel "Patriots: A Novel of Survival in the Coming Collapse" . In all three cases, there were dozens of repeated pages, where the corresponding correct pages were missing. Yikes! (In the book publishing world, this is called a "folio sequencing error".) I suppose that this small number of reported errors is not bad for a book with more than 30,000 copies in print, but it is still troubling. If you have purchased a copy of "Patriots" with a binding error, then please call, e-mail or write the publisher and let them know which pages were repeated, and they'll provide a free replacement copy:

Phone: 1-800-377-2542
E-mail: ulysses@ulyssespress.com
Snail Mail: Ulysses Press, P.O. Box 3440, Berkeley, California 94703

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Today we present another entry for Round 23 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day OnPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of at least $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 23 ends on July 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« A Derivatives Market Meltdown: "We Apologize for the Inconvenience" |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Monday June 15 2009

Note from JWR:

I'm pleased to report that we will soon surpass nine million unique visits. There are SurvivalBlog readers on every continent except Antarctica. Thanks for helping SurvivalBlog become such a great success. Please keep spreading the word to relatives, friends, neighbors, and co-workers. Thanks!

« Sprouting is Key to Good Nutrition in TEOTWAWKI |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday June 13 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present a guest article from one of our most loyal advertisers. You will note that I post very few articles from advertisers, but when one like this comes along that provides useful and practical information, I don't hesitate. Also please note that our advertisers are not eligible to participate in the SurvivalBlog Nonfiction Writing Contest.

« Escape From (Fill in Your City Here), 2009, by Bill in Chicagoland |Main| The Memsahib's Quote of the Day: »

Friday June 12 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 23 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day OnPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 23 ends on July 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Letter Re: Advice For Older Preppers With Limited Mobility |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday June 10 2009

Note from JWR:

Several SurvivalBlog readers have written to mention that they'd like to help with The Memsahib's medical expenses. That was very kind, but by God's wonderful providence, we are in no need of contributed funds to pay for her health care costs. (I recently signed a contract with Simon & Schuster to write two novels as sequels to "Patriots"). We covet only your prayers.

« It Matters Not Whether Inflation or Deflation--You Need to Protect Yourself, by Gentleman Jim from Colorado |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday June 9 2009

Note from JWR:

Our SurvivalRealty spin-off site has several new retreat property listings in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Also, a very unusual underground house in Colorado has also been re-posted. Check them out. These properties represent some of the best available to get yourself ready to zurück. Find a good retreat and head for the hills!

« The Anti-Bug Out Bag, by Jason C. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday June 6 2009

Notes from JWR:

Please keep The Memsahib in your prayers. Her health and strength are failing, but her faith in Christ is strong.

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Today we present another entry for Round 23 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day OnPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 23 ends on July 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Two Letters Re: Walking Tractors and Similar Powered Farming Implements |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday June 5 2009

Note from JWR:

Last day! Safecastle's 25% Off Mountain House storage food sale ends at midnight, eastern time (June 5th.). Safecastle Royal members will also get a free copy of the novel One Second After by William R. Forstchen if they purchase four or more cases of Mountain House foods.

« Two Letters Re: Walking Tractors and Similar Powered Farming Implements |Main| The Memsahib's Quote of the Day: »

Thursday June 4 2009

Note from JWR:

I have expanded the SurvivalBlog Bookshelf page. Most notably, I have added some survivalist fiction book lists, and greatly expanded my "Second Tier" list of recommended specialty books. Note that if you buy any items from Amazon.com (even radios, band-aids or Break Free) via our links, SurvivalBlog will earn a small commission. Thanks!

« Survival of the Fittest by Mike Hussle |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday June 3 2009

Notes from JWR:

The producers of NBC's Today television show have already interviewed two SurvivalBlog readers, but they are looking for one more family, for a taped segment. They are looking for a "typical suburban survivalist family" somewhere within 200 miles of New York City, for an interview. E-mail: Josh Weiner of NBC.

---

Today we present the first entry for Round 23 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day OnPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 23 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Letter Re: Many Weeds are Actually Edible Wild Plants |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Monday June 1 2009

Notes from JWR:

It was tough to judge the 24 excellent entries in the most recent round of the SurvivalBlog Non-Fiction Writing Contest. The grand prize winner is: Mike U., for his article "Unconventional Wisdom for CCW Permit Holders", which was posted on May 19th. He will receive a three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for his choice of three-day civilian courses. He will also receive two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

2nd Prize goes to RangerDoc, for "Health, Hygiene, Fitness and Medical Care in a Coming Collapse", posted on May 8th. He will receive a"grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of $350.

3rd Prize goes to Jim B., for "Preparing Your Family for 'Interesting' Times: A Covenantal Christian Perspective", posted on April 8th. He will receive a copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, courtesy of Arbogast Publishing

Honorable mention prizes go to four writers. They will each receive a $30 Amazon.com gift certificate.

Note to the prize winners: Please e-mail me to let me know your snail mail addresses!
Today we begin Round 23 of the writing contest. This round of the contest will end on July 31st.

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Since our readership is still growing rapidly (nearly doubled in the past 10 months!) , I've just increased the SurvivalBlog advertising rates by 10%. (At this point I have almost too many advertisers!)

« Anesthesia for Traumatic Times, by Scott N., EMT |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday May 31 2009

Notes from JWR:

I was overwhelmed by more than 80 responses to my recent Seeking Reader Input for "Patriots" Sequels post. I now have more than enough volunteers! (The only subject area where I still need some more input is Belize.) My apologies if I don't send all of you immediate replies. In many cases, I won't be replying with follow-up questions until I'm actively engaged in writing those particular parts of the manuscript. My sincere thanks for your input, folks!

---

Today we present the final entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. (BTW, I have some others that recently arrived now in the queue, but those will be considered in Round 23.)

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day OnPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Creating a Crisis Decision Matrix, by Steve N. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday May 30 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day OnPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Pest Prevention and Control Measures for Food Storage, by Elk H. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday May 29 2009

Notes from JWR:

If you have any favorite quotes that relate to survival, preparedness, faith, patriotism, Constitutional rights, or perhaps something on economics, then please e-mail it to me, and I'll likely post them as Quotes of the Day. Thanks!

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Today we present another entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day OnPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Letter Re: Advice for Newcomers in a Community--Overcoming the We/They Paradigm |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Thursday May 28 2009

Note from JWR:

Welcome to the thousands of folks that have discovered SurvivalBlog because of the recent AP wire service article on survivalism that was picked up by umpteen news outlets. In the two days since, our number of web site visits has almost doubled. To come up to speed, I recommend that you read the SurvivalBlog About page first, ad then my page on my Precepts. Keep in mind that there are now nearly 7,000 archived articles and letters, all searchable and available free of charge. If there is a topic related to preparedness that interests you, odds are that you can find what you need in our archives, with the "Search Posts on SurvivalBlog:" box at the top of the right-hand bar. Welcome aboard!

« Learning to Cook on a Wood-Fired Stove by Deborah |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday May 27 2009

Notes from JWR:

Would you like to be on NBC's Today television show? A producer of the show contacted me and asked for some background information on the growth of the preparedness movement, and for help in locating a guest for a taped interview. They are looking for a "typical suburban survivalist" somewhere within 200 miles of New York City, for an interview. E-mail: Josh Weiner of NBC.

---

Today we present two more entries for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day OnPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Baking and Simple Cooking After a Disaster, by LCHS |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday May 26 2009

Notes from JWR:

The Associated Press just ran an article on the survivalist movement that briefly quoted me: Crisis spurs spike in 'suburban survivalists'. Meanwhile, ABC news ran a similar article: 'Recession Apocalypse': Preparing for the End of the World" Economic Survivalists Hunker Down for Doomsday; Recession Triggers Movement Toward Self-Sufficiency. Okay, its official: In the eyes of the mainstream media, we're now a "Movement".

---

Today we present another entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day OnPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« The Pressure Cooker: An Overlooked Preparedness Tool, by N.J. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Monday May 25 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day OnPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Five Months Till Armageddon--A Dark View of the Future, by H.I.C. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday May 23 2009

Notes from JWR:

I laughed heartily, reading this Times of London online article about the mainstreaming of survivalism: Swine flu...recession...should we all be reading Neil Strauss to survive? It must be bad: survival manuals are racing up the book charts. Ordinary folks are preparing for the worst. The author started out describing the book "Emergency" by Neil Strauss, but then took a hard right turn and went on to spill copious ink--or should I say bits or pixels--about my novel.) The reviewer has a real gift for comic writing.

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Today we present another entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. A proviso: It is strongly opinionated and overtly political--so not everyone will agree with him--but despite our differences of opinion, I believe that it has some good food for thought.

First Prize: A.) A course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day OnPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600, and B.) Two cases of Mountain House freeze-dried foods, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« The Information Junkie, by Dan H. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday May 22 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. Because I recently dropped Front Sight as an advertiser, the list of contest prizes for this round has been revised:

First Prize: A course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day OnPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Biological Threat Assessment and Containment, by Anon.T |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Thursday May 21 2009

Notes from JWR:

Please keep The Memsahib (and her doctors) in your prayers. Her health is still quite precarious.

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Today we present another entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. Because I recently dropped Front Sight as an advertiser, the list of contest prizes for this round has been revised:

First Prize: A course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day OnPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Unconventional Wisdom for CCW Permit Holders, by Mike U. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday May 19 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. Because I recently dropped Front Sight as an advertiser, the list of contest prizes for this round has been revised:

First Prize: A course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day OnPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Three Letters Re: Stocking Up on Prescription Medicines |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Monday May 18 2009

Note from JWR:

I provided the manuscript to the publisher just a week ago, but Amazon is already taking pre-orders for my new book "How to Survive the End of the World As We Know It". Penguin Books plans to release it in late September or early October. BTW, that is considered a lightning fast turn-around for one of the big New York publishers. I suppose that all the economic and H1N1 flu headlines have them quite anxious to publish a practical preparedness book. OBTW, I am tentatively planning on a "Book Bomblet" Day, so please hold off on ordering. Thanks!

« Diverters and Pre-Filters for Roof Rainwater Catchment, by Dim Tim |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday May 17 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. Because of the recent shake-up at Front Sight, the list of contest prizes for this round has been revised:

First Prize: A course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses. (Excluding those restricted for military or government teams.) Three day OnPoint courses normally cost between $500 and $600.

Second Prize: A "grab bag" of preparedness gear and books from Jim's Amazing Secret Bunker of Redundant Redundancy (JASBORR) with a retail value of $350.

Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing.

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Letter Re: Which Form of Precious Metals? |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday May 16 2009

Note from JWR:

Congrats to M.G., the high bidder in the SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction that ended last night.
I've decided to at least temporarily discontinue the auctions, since a few readers have complained that my mention of the auction bids is too distracting and "too commercial." If you'd like to support the blog in other ways, see our Support page. Thanks!

« Letter Re: Which Form of Precious Metals? |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Thursday May 14 2009

Note from JWR:

The bidding ends at midnight (eastern time) tomorrow night! (May 15th.) The high bid in the SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction. is now at $1,325. This auction is for a large mixed lot, which includes:

1.) A Three-Color Desert Camo Interceptor OTV (Outer Tactical Vest) size XL only, and a spare Woodland camouflage outer shell, kindly donated by BulletProofME.com. These items have a combined retail value of $960!

2.) A vehicle detection system, which includes: one MURS Alert Probe Sensor (MAPS) with 50 foot probe cable and one MURS Alert Hand Held (M538-HT) transceiver. The MAPS unit's probe can be covertly installed under the surface of a driveway or road to detect vehicular traffic and a voice alert is sent to the hand held transceiver when a detection occurs. Donated by MURS Radio. Retails for $303

3.) Two cases of Yoder's Canned Bacon, courtesy of CampingSurvival.com. (12 cans per case.) A $276 retail value.

4.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

5.) Three Garden Security Collections, and two Garden Bean Collections, donated by SeedForSecurity.com. With included free shipping to any US postal address, this is a $100+ retail value.

6.) Two America Stone knife sharpeners (with belt pouches), donated by the manufacturer. (A $60 retail value.)

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $1,800. Bidding ends at midnight (eastern time) tonight! Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

« Letter Re: That Post Die-Off Fragrance |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday May 13 2009

Note from JWR:

Just three days left to bid! The high bid in the SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction. is now at $1,100. This auction is for a large mixed lot, which includes:

1.) A Three-Color Desert Camo Interceptor OTV (Outer Tactical Vest) size XL only, and a spare Woodland camouflage outer shell, kindly donated by BulletProofME.com. These items have a combined retail value of $960!

2.) A vehicle detection system, which includes: one MURS Alert Probe Sensor (MAPS) with 50 foot probe cable and one MURS Alert Hand Held (M538-HT) transceiver. The MAPS unit's probe can be covertly installed under the surface of a driveway or road to detect vehicular traffic and a voice alert is sent to the hand held transceiver when a detection occurs. Donated by MURS Radio. Retails for $303

3.) Two cases of Yoder's Canned Bacon, courtesy of CampingSurvival.com. (12 cans per case.) A $276 retail value.

4.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

5.) Three Garden Security Collections, and two Garden Bean Collections, donated by SeedForSecurity.com. With included free shipping to any US postal address, this is a $100+ retail value.

6.) Two America Stone knife sharpeners (with belt pouches), donated by the manufacturer. (A $60 retail value.)

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $1,800. This auction ends on May15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

« An Update to the Classic: The Hyperinflation Survival Guide, by OSOM |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday May 12 2009

Notes from JWR:

Any SurvivalBloggers with a Kindle Reader may be interested to know that there is now a Kindle edition of my novel "Patriots: A Novel of Survival in the Coming Collapse" available.

Today's first article comes from frequent SurvivalBlog content contributor "OSOM.". His moniker, by the way, is an acronym for "Out of sight, out of mind."

« Letter Re: An Expedient Manual Clothes Washer |Main| Odds 'n Sods: »

Monday May 11 2009

Notes from JWR:

For SurvivalBlog readers that are conversant auf Deutsch, there was a review of my novel in the widely-read Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ) newspaper: Amerikanischer Bestseller: „Patriots“ Wie das Ende unserer Welt zu überleben ist.

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The high bid in the SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction. is now at $1,100. This auction ends in just four days. It is for a large mixed lot, which includes:

1.) A Three-Color Desert Camo Interceptor OTV (Outer Tactical Vest) size XL only, and a spare Woodland camouflage outer shell, kindly donated by BulletProofME.com. These items have a combined retail value of $960!

2.) A vehicle detection system, which includes: one MURS Alert Probe Sensor (MAPS) with 50 foot probe cable and one MURS Alert Hand Held (M538-HT) transceiver. The MAPS unit's probe can be covertly installed under the surface of a driveway or road to detect vehicular traffic and a voice alert is sent to the hand held transceiver when a detection occurs. Donated by MURS Radio. Retails for $303

3.) Two cases of Yoder's Canned Bacon, courtesy of CampingSurvival.com. (12 cans per case.) A $276 retail value.

4.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

5.) Three Garden Security Collections, and two Garden Bean Collections, donated by SeedForSecurity.com. With included free shipping to any US postal address, this is a $100+ retail value.

6.) Two America Stone knife sharpeners (with belt pouches), donated by the manufacturer. (A $60 retail value.)

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $1,800. This auction ends on May15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

« Snippets From the SurvivalBlog Archives: Communications and Monitoring Advice |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday May 9 2009

Note from JWR:

The high bid in the SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction. is now at $1,010. This auction is for a large mixed lot, which includes:

1.) A Three-Color Desert Camo Interceptor OTV (Outer Tactical Vest) size XL only, and a spare Woodland camouflage outer shell, kindly donated by BulletProofME.com. These items have a combined retail value of $960!

2.) A vehicle detection system, which includes: one MURS Alert Probe Sensor (MAPS) with 50 foot probe cable and one MURS Alert Hand Held (M538-HT) transceiver. The MAPS unit's probe can be covertly installed under the surface of a driveway or road to detect vehicular traffic and a voice alert is sent to the hand held transceiver when a detection occurs. Donated by MURS Radio. Retails for $303

3.) Two cases of Yoder's Canned Bacon, courtesy of CampingSurvival.com. (12 cans per case.) A $276 retail value.

4.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

5.) Three Garden Security Collections, and two Garden Bean Collections, donated by SeedForSecurity.com. With included free shipping to any US postal address, this is a $100+ retail value.mat

6.) Two America Stone knife sharpeners (with belt pouches), donated by the manufacturer. (A $60 retail value.)

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $1,800. This auction ends on May15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

« Health, Hygiene, Fitness and Medical Care in a Coming Collapse, by RangerDoc |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday May 8 2009

Notes from JWR:

My Inner Nerd is itching to see the new Star Trek prequel movie, which is scheduled for release tonight (May 8th). But until my latest book manuscript is submitted to Penguin Books, I can't go see it with a clear conscience. The May 11th manuscript deadline is looming! The new book will be non-fiction, titled How to Survive the End of the World As We Know It. This non-fiction book is scheduled for released in early October.

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Today we present a brief but very practical entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Maximizing Use of a Backyard Greenhouse, by Kathy Harrison |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Thursday May 7 2009

Notes from JWR:

The high bid in the SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction. is now at $1,010. This auction is for a large mixed lot, which includes:

1.) A Three-Color Desert Camo Interceptor OTV (Outer Tactical Vest) size XL only, and a spare Woodland camouflage outer shell, kindly donated by BulletProofME.com. These items have a combined retail value of $960!

2.) A vehicle detection system, which includes: one MURS Alert Probe Sensor (MAPS) with 50 foot probe cable and one MURS Alert Hand Held (M538-HT) transceiver. The MAPS unit's probe can be covertly installed under the surface of a driveway or road to detect vehicular traffic and a voice alert is sent to the hand held transceiver when a detection occurs. Donated by MURS Radio. Retails for $303

3.) Two cases of Yoder's Canned Bacon, courtesy of CampingSurvival.com. (12 cans per case.) A $276 retail value.

4.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

5.) Three Garden Security Collections, and two Garden Bean Collections, donated by SeedForSecurity.com. With included free shipping to any US postal address, this is a $100+ retail value.

6.) Two America Stone knife sharpeners (with belt pouches), donated by the manufacturer. (A $60 retail value.)

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $1,800. This auction ends on May15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

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Today we present a guest article from Kathy Harrison, the author of the popular mainstream preparedness book Just in Case . I highly recommend getting her book to first read yourself and then pass along to any of your "head in the sand" neighbors and relatives.

« Zero Your Rifle with Just Two Rounds, by Pete C. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday May 6 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present a brief but very practical entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Letter Re: Question on Commercial Parts and Critical Spare Parts for M1A Rifles |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Monday May 4 2009

Note from JWR:

The high bid in the SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction. is now at $1,000. This auction is for a large mixed lot, which includes:

1.) A Three-Color Desert Camo Interceptor OTV (Outer Tactical Vest) size XL only, and a spare Woodland camouflage outer shell, kindly donated by BulletProofME.com. These items have a combined retail value of $960!

2.) A vehicle detection system, which includes: one MURS Alert Probe Sensor (MAPS) with 50 foot probe cable and one MURS Alert Hand Held (M538-HT) transceiver. The MAPS unit's probe can be covertly installed under the surface of a driveway or road to detect vehicular traffic and a voice alert is sent to the hand held transceiver when a detection occurs. Donated by MURS Radio. Retails for $303

3.) Two cases of Yoder's Canned Bacon, courtesy of CampingSurvival.com. (12 cans per case.) A $276 retail value.

4.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

5.) Three Garden Security Collections, and two Garden Bean Collections, donated by SeedForSecurity.com. With included free shipping to any US postal address, this is a $100+ retail value.

6.) Two America Stone knife sharpeners (with belt pouches), donated by the manufacturer. (A $60 retail value.)

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $1,800. This auction ends on May15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

« Responding to a CBRNE Event, by J. Paramedic |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday May 3 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Letter Re: The Rush Has Begun for Flu Prep Logistics |Main| Letter Re Advice for College Students Living Abroad »

Saturday May 2 2009

Note from JWR:

The high bid in the SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction. is now at $760. This auction is for a large mixed lot, which includes:

1.) A Three-Color Desert Camo Interceptor OTV (Outer Tactical Vest) size XL only, and a spare Woodland camouflage outer shell, kindly donated by BulletProofME.com. These items have a combined retail value of $960!

2.) A vehicle detection system, which includes: one MURS Alert Probe Sensor (MAPS) with 50 foot probe cable and one MURS Alert Hand Held (M538-HT) transceiver. The MAPS unit's probe can be covertly installed under the surface of a driveway or road to detect vehicular traffic and a voice alert is sent to the hand held transceiver when a detection occurs. Donated by MURS Radio. Retails for $303

3.) Two cases of Yoder's Canned Bacon, courtesy of CampingSurvival.com. (12 cans per case.) A $276 retail value.

4.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

5.) Three Garden Security Collections, and two Garden Bean Collections, donated by SeedForSecurity.com. With included free shipping to any US postal address, this is a $100+ retail value.

6.) Two America Stone knife sharpeners (with belt pouches), donated by the manufacturer. (A $60 retail value.)

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $1,800. This auction ends on May15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

« Mexican Flu Update |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday May 1 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging. But first, here are the responses to our survey:

« Mexican Flu Update |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday April 29 2009

Notes from JWR:

The Tennessean newspaper (published in Nashville), recently featured an article about my novel: Survivalist author has end in sight

---

Amazon.com is now so backed up on orders for "Patriots" , that they have sent e-mails to customers, asking if they want to cancel their orders or hang on until perhaps mid-June for shipment. (If you do cancel, and then re-order at the new lower cover price ($8.97), be advised that you probably won't get your copies until late June.) My publisher tells me that there are now 40,000 copies in print, but it may take a couple of weeks to get them though the supply chain to customers. Amazon.com has now ordered almost 14,000 copies. Other large orders have recently been placed by Borders, Barnes & Noble, and Costco. Thanks for making the book such a huge success, and thanks also for your patience!

---

Today we present another entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Mexican Flu Update |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Monday April 27 2009

Note from JWR:

Our SurvivalRealty spin-off site is continuing to flourish. There are some amazing retreat properties listed there, including the latest listing, a unique "castle" retreat in southwestern Oregon.

« The Mexican Flu and You |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday April 26 2009

Note from JWR:

I'm posting the Sunday blog early, for the sake of exigency. Please forward This Article Permalink URL to all your family, friends. and co-workers:

« Upgrades to Your Bug Out Vehicle, by Nickey C. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday April 25 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Letter Re: Save Money, Get Prepared, and Eat Healthier with Intermediate Term Food Storage |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday April 24 2009

Notes from JWR:

Thanks to everyone that ordered copies of my novel "Patriots: A Novel of Survival in the Coming Collapse" on "Book Bomb" Day. You placed so many orders that you totally wiped the copies that Amazon.com had on hand by 6 a.m. on April 8th. Amazon currently has 13,000 copies on order from the publisher, 10,000 of which should get to them sometime early next week. So most of you should have your books by late next week, and an unfortunate few of you possibly as late as June 26th, depending on when you placed your order. Again, thanks for your patience! OBTW, please don't cancel your order and re-order for the sake of saving two bucks, or you'll end up way at the back end of a very long queue.

I've been told that my agent has reached final agreement with the Atria and Pocket Books Divisions of Simon & Schuster on a deal for two sequels to "Patriots". Unlike traditional sequels, the storylines of these novels will be contemporaneous with the economic collapse and invasion described in the first novel. There will be some overlap of characters, but most of the action will take place in different locales. My goal is to use these two books to write about a lot of different tactics, techniques, and technologies for survival. I'm excited to be getting back to fiction writing. But of course I'll continue daily posts at SurvivalBlog.

« Save Money, Get Prepared, and Eat Healthier with Intermediate Term Food Storage, by Travis A. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday April 22 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Letter Re: Transmission of Odors to Bulk-Packed Storage Foods |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday April 21 2009

Note from JWR:

Please keep The Memsahib in your prayers. Her health is still in peril, but as Christians we have total faith in God, and we look at things on the eternal time scale--that makes this earthly life just a blink of an eye. We never lose sight of the fact that God's grace is amazing.

« Letter Re: Tidal Waves of Urban Refugees |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday April 19 2009

Notes from JWR:

If you have any favorite quotes that relate to survival, preparedness, faith, patriotism, Constitutional rights, or perhaps something on economics, then please e-mail it to me, and I'll likely post them as Quotes of the Day. Thanks!

---

The high bid in the SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction. is now at $650. This auction is for a large mixed lot, which includes:

1.) A Three-Color Desert Camo Interceptor OTV (Outer Tactical Vest) size XL only, and a spare Woodland camouflage outer shell, kindly donated by BulletProofME.com. These items have a combined retail value of $960!

2.) A vehicle detection system, which includes: one MURS Alert Probe Sensor (MAPS) with 50 foot probe cable and one MURS Alert Hand Held (M538-HT) transceiver. The MAPS unit's probe can be covertly installed under the surface of a driveway or road to detect vehicular traffic and a voice alert is sent to the hand held transceiver when a detection occurs. Donated by MURS Radio. Retails for $303

3.) Two cases of Yoder's Canned Bacon, courtesy of CampingSurvival.com. (12 cans per case.) A $276 retail value.

4.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

5.) Three Garden Security Collections, and two Garden Bean Collections, donated by SeedForSecurity.com. With included free shipping to any US postal address, this is a $100+ retail value.

6.) Two America Stone knife sharpeners (with belt pouches), donated by the manufacturer. (A $60 retail value.)

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $1,800. This auction ends on May15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

« Preparing Your Family for "Interesting" Times: A Covenantal Christian Perspective, by Jim B. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday April 18 2009

Notes from JWR:

Wow! We are approaching eight million unique visits. Not bad for "an obscure niche blog." Please keep spreading the word. Thanks!

---

Today we present another entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Cooper's Color Codes and Bugging Out Before the SHTF, by H.I.C. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday April 17 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Letter Re: Free GPS Topographical Map Software and Adjuncts |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Thursday April 16 2009

Notes from JWR:

This article about my book is causing a bit of a stir: "The Most Dangerous Novel In America". Dangerous? Obviously, my politics and religious background didn't match those of the journalist. OBTW, some of the follow-up comments at Michelle Malkin's Hot Air blog were quite entertaining. I loved the one about casting gold bullets.

---

My #1 Son (Jonathan) was quoted briefly in a recent USAToday newspaper article on the growth of mainstream survivalism: Economic survivalists take root. Speaking of #1 Son, the SurvivalRealty spin-off site is growing rapidly, and becoming known as the best place to buy and sell specialized retreat properties. The site now has listings from as far afield as Mexico, Panama, New Zealand and India.

---

Congrats to C.E., the high bidder in our most recent SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction. Today we are starting a new auction. It is for a large mixed lot, which includes:

1.) A Three-Color Desert Camo Interceptor OTV (Outer Tactical Vest) size XL only, and a spare Woodland camouflage outer shell, kindly donated by BulletProofME.com. These items have a combined retail value of $960!

2.) A vehicle detection system, which includes: one MURS Alert Probe Sensor (MAPS) with 50 foot probe cable and one MURS Alert Hand Held (M538-HT) transceiver. The MAPS unit's probe can be covertly installed under the surface of a driveway or road to detect vehicular traffic and a voice alert is sent to the hand held transceiver when a detection occurs. Donated by MURS Radio. Retails for $303

3.) Two cases of Yoder's Canned Bacon, courtesy of CampingSurvival.com. (12 cans per case.) A $276 retail value.

4.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

5.) Three Garden Security Collections, and two Garden Bean Collections, donated by SeedForSecurity.com. With included free shipping to any US postal address, this is a $100+ retail value.

6.) Two America Stone knife sharpeners (with belt pouches), donated by the manufacturer. (A $60 retail value.)

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $1,800. This auction ends on May15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

« Letter Re: The Importance of Spare Parts and Maintenance for Preparedness |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday April 15 2009

Note from JWR:

This is the last day to bid in the SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction.The high bid is now at $2,510. This auction ends at midnight (eastern time) tonight, April 15th. It is for a large mixed lot, which includes::

1.) A Warrior Aid and Litter Kit, donated by Ready Made Resources. This is an advanced medic kit package that includes a Talon II 90C folding-handle collapsible litter, which normally retails for $560, just by itself. This truly a "full up" tactical trauma kit! This sophisticated medic kit normally retails for $1,500.

2.) A "be ready to barter" box of 26 full-capacity firearms magazines, from my personal collection in JASBORR. This box includes: 4 - Brand new "smoke gray" polymer original Bulgarian 40 rd. AK-47 magazines, 10 - brand new AR-15/M16 USGI black Teflon coated alloy 30 round magazines with stainless steel springs and the latest gray anti-tilt followers, 6 - new condition original USGI M14/M1A 20 round parkerized steel magazines, from CMI (the current military prime contractor) 6 - new condition original Glock Model 20 (10mm) 15 round pistol magazines--the latest production type with "SF" front magazine catch notch . All of these magazines are of recent manufacture (and hence are NOT legal to possess in New York.) These magazines have a combined value of approximately $750, in today's market. Note: If you live in a state where full capacity magazines are banned, then you must choose to: refrain from bidding, or designate a recipient in an unrestricted state, or re-donate the magazines for a subsequent auction.

3.) A large Bury 'Em Tube (# 6L, 43" x 6" with a 5.1 gallon capacity), donated by Safecastle. (a $199.95 retail value)

4.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

5.) An OPTIMUS Terra Cookset for backpacking, tent camping or even WTSHTF, donated by Safecastle. It includes the ultra-compact Crux stove, plus a special small cookset--all very portable and lightweight. (Fuel canister not included.) (a $95 retail value)

6.) A fresh, sealed case of full mil-spec MRE rations with ration heaters, courtesy of CampingSurvival.com. (a $94.95 value)

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $2,800. Again, this auction ends at midnight on April 15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

« From The Werewolf: New Flex Fuel Ethanol Motorcycle Now Available in Brazil |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday April 14 2009

Note from JWR:

Just one day left to bid! The high bid in the SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction is now at 1,860. This auction ends on April 15th. It is for a large mixed lot, which includes::

1.) A Warrior Aid and Litter Kit, donated by Ready Made Resources. This is an advanced medic kit package that includes a Talon II 90C folding handle collapsible litter, which normally retails for $560, just by itself. This truly a "full up" tactical trauma kit! This sophisticated medic kit normally retails for $1,500.

2.) A "be ready to barter" box of 26 full-capacity firearms magazines, from my personal collection in JASBORR. This box includes: 4 - Brand new "smoke gray" polymer original Bulgarian 40 rd. AK-47 magazines, 10 - brand new AR-15/M16 USGI black Teflon coated alloy 30 round magazines with stainless steel springs and the latest gray anti-tilt followers, 6 - new condition original USGI M14/M1A 20 round parkerized steel magazines, from CMI (the current military prime contractor) 6 - new condition original Glock Model 20 (10mm) 15 round pistol magazines--the latest production type with "SF" front magazine catch notch . All of these magazines are of recent manufacture (and hence are NOT legal to possess in New York.) These magazines have a combined value of approximately $750, in today's market. Note: If you live in a state where full capacity magazines are banned, then you must choose to: refrain from bidding, or designate a recipient in an unrestricted state, or re-donate the magazines for a subsequent auction.

3.) A large Bury 'Em Tube (# 6L, 43" x 6" with a 5.1 gallon capacity), donated by Safecastle. (a $199.95 retail value)

4.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

5.) An OPTIMUS Terra Cookset for backpacking, tent camping or even WTSHTF, donated by Safecastle. It includes the ultra-compact Crux stove, plus a special small cookset--all very portable and lightweight. (Fuel canister not included.) (a $95 retail value)

6.) A fresh, sealed case of full mil-spec MRE rations with ration heaters, courtesy of CampingSurvival.com. (a $94.95 value)

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $2,800. This auction ends on April 15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

« Letter Re: Viability of Central America Retreat Locales? |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Monday April 13 2009

Note from JWR:

I was pleased to see that Amazon.com has dropped their price to just $8.97 on my novel "Patriots: A Novel Survival in the Coming Collapse" . This must be one of those "economies of scale" benefits, derived from the huge re-order that they placed following the "Book Bomb" day last Wednesday. (Amazon sold more than 2,000 copies of "Patriots" in just one day!) Ulysses Press has ordered another 10,000 copy press run, to keep up with demand. Many thanks for your tremendous support of that event!

---

The high bid in the SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction is now at $1,310. This auction ends on April 15th. It is for a large mixed lot, which includes::

1.) A Warrior Aid and Litter Kit, donated by Ready Made Resources. This is an advanced medic kit package that includes a Talon II 90C folding handle collapsible litter, which normally retails for $560, just by itself. This truly a "full up" tactical trauma kit! This sophisticated medic kit normally retails for $1,500.

2.) A "be ready to barter" box of 26 full-capacity firearms magazines, from my personal collection in JASBORR. This box includes: 4 - Brand new "smoke gray" polymer original Bulgarian 40 rd. AK-47 magazines, 10 - brand new AR-15/M16 USGI black Teflon coated alloy 30 round magazines with stainless steel springs and the latest gray anti-tilt followers, 6 - new condition original USGI M14/M1A 20 round parkerized steel magazines from CMI (the current military prime contractor) 6 - new condition original Glock Model 20 (10mm) 15 round pistol magazines--the latest production type with "SF" front magazine catch notch . All of these magazines are of recent manufacture (and hence are NOT legal to possess in New York.) These magazines have a combined value of approximately $750, in today's market. Note: If you live in a state where full capacity magazines are banned, then you must choose to: refrain from bidding, or designate a recipient in an unrestricted state, or re-donate the magazines for a subsequent auction.

3.) A large Bury 'Em Tube (# 6L, 43" x 6" with a 5.1 gallon capacity), donated by Safecastle. (a $199.95 retail value)

4.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

5.) An OPTIMUS Terra Cookset for backpacking, tent camping or even WTSHTF, donated by Safecastle. It includes the ultra-compact Crux stove, plus a special small cookset--all very portable and lightweight. (Fuel canister not included.) (a $95 retail value)

6.) A fresh, sealed case of full mil-spec MRE rations with ration heaters, courtesy of CampingSurvival.com. (a $94.95 value)

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $2,800. This auction ends on April 15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

« Why Survivalists Should Buy Local Organic Food, by Chad L. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday April 12 2009

Notes from JWR:

Have a joyous Easter. Our Savior is risen!

---

The high bid in the SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction is now at $1,260. This auction ends on April 15th. It is for a large mixed lot, which includes::

1.) A Warrior Aid and Litter Kit, donated by Ready Made Resources. This is an advanced medic kit package that includes a Talon II 90C folding handle collapsible litter, which normally retails for $560, just by itself. This truly a "full up" tactical trauma kit! This sophisticated medic kit normally retails for $1,500.

2.) A "be ready to barter" box of 26 full-capacity firearms magazines, from my personal collection in JASBORR. This box includes: 4 - Brand new "smoke gray" polymer original Bulgarian 40 rd. AK-47 magazines, 10 - brand new AR-15/M16 USGI black Teflon coated alloy 30 round magazines with stainless steel springs and the latest gray anti-tilt followers, 6 - new condition original USGI M14/M1A 20 round parkerized steel magazines, from CMI (the current military prime contractor) 6 - new condition original Glock Model 20 (10mm) 15 round pistol magazines--the latest production type with "SF" front magazine catch notch . All of these magazines are of recent manufacture (and hence are NOT legal to possess in New York.) These magazines have a combined value of approximately $750, in today's market. Note: If you live in a state where full capacity magazines are banned, then you must choose to: refrain from bidding, or designate a recipient in an unrestricted state, or re-donate the magazines for a subsequent auction.

3.) A large Bury 'Em Tube (# 6L, 43" x 6" with a 5.1 gallon capacity), donated by Safecastle. (a $199.95 retail value)

4.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

5.) An OPTIMUS Terra Cookset for backpacking, tent camping or even WTSHTF, donated by Safecastle. It includes the ultra-compact Crux stove, plus a special small cookset--all very portable and lightweight. (Fuel canister not included.) (a $95 retail value)

6.) A fresh, sealed case of full mil-spec MRE rations with ration heaters, courtesy of CampingSurvival.com. (a $94.95 value)

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $2,800. This auction ends on April 15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

---

Today we present another entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Good Fences Make Good Neighbors: Reinforcing Your Retreat for Long Term Survival on the Cheap, by Q.T. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday April 11 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Letter Re: Home-Made Super Cat Alcohol Stoves |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday April 10 2009

Notes from JWR:

I've just signed a publishing contract with Penguin Books to complete a manuscript for a non-fiction paperback that will be titled "How to Survive The End of the World as We Know It." Rather than the 12- to 18-month production cycle that is typical for most books from major New York publishing houses, this book will be a "instant book" with a release date possibly as early as August of Aught Nine. There are also now two big New York publishers that have expressed interest in publishing a mass-market edition of "Patriots". I'll post more details as they become available.

The high bid in the SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction is now at $1,160. This auction ends on April 15th. It is for a large mixed lot, which includes::

1.) A Warrior Aid and Litter Kit, donated by Ready Made Resources. This is an advanced medic kit package that includes a Talon II 90C folding handle collapsible litter, which normally retails for $560, just by itself. This truly a "full up" tactical trauma kit! This sophisticated medic kit normally retails for $1,500.

2.) A "be ready to barter" box of 26 full-capacity firearms magazines, from my personal collection in JASBORR. This box includes: 4 - Brand new "smoke gray" polymer original Bulgarian 40 rd. AK-47 magazines, 10 - brand new AR-15/M16 USGI black Teflon coated alloy 30 round magazines with stainless steel springs and the latest gray anti-tilt followers, 6 - new condition original USGI M14/M1A 20 round parkerized steel magazines, from CMI (the current military prime contractor) 6 - new condition original Glock Model 20 (10mm) 15 round pistol magazines--the latest production type with "SF" front magazine catch notch . All of these magazines are of recent manufacture (and hence are NOT legal to possess in New York.) These magazines have a combined value of approximately $750, in today's market. Note: If you live in a state where full capacity magazines are banned, then you must choose to: refrain from bidding, or designate a recipient in an unrestricted state, or re-donate the magazines for a subsequent auction.

3.) A large Bury 'Em Tube (# 6L, 43" x 6" with a 5.1 gallon capacity), donated by Safecastle. (a $199.95 retail value)

4.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

5.) An OPTIMUS Terra Cookset for backpacking, tent camping or even WTSHTF, donated by Safecastle. It includes the ultra-compact Crux stove, plus a special small cookset--all very portable and lightweight. (Fuel canister not included.) (a $95 retail value)

6.) A fresh, sealed case of full mil-spec MRE rations with ration heaters, courtesy of CampingSurvival.com. (a $94.95 value)

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $2,800. This auction ends on April 15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

« Letter Re: Mining Claims as Retreat Locales |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Thursday April 9 2009

Note from JWR:

I am pleased to report that yesterday's Book Bomb Day (April 8th) for "Patriots: A Novel Survival in the Coming Collapse" resulted in more than 2,000 book orders from Amazon.com, and drove the novel's Amazon sales Bestsellers rank up to #6 (overall), #1 in Thrillers, and #1 in Contemporary Fiction. BTW, the #6 rank is respectable, considering that 3 of the 5 books ranked higher than "Patriots" are mega-sellers that are being driven by the very popular Twilight movie. It even edged out Oprah's current touchy-feely favorite. Oh, and speaking of timely books, The Ultimate Depression Survival Guide: Protect Your Savings, Boost Your Income, and Grow Wealthy Even in the Worst of Times by Marty Weiss was also in Amazon's Top Ten on Wednesday. I'd say that this is evidence that people are getting very concerned about the recession turning into a depression.

My sincere thanks for making the Book Bomb day such a great success. Please continue to spread the word about "Patriots". Many Thanks!

« Backpackers of the Apocalypse: Selecting and Ultra-Lighting Your Bug-Out Bag, by John the Midwestern Hiker |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday April 8 2009

Notes from JWR:

Today is the "Patriots" Book Bomb Day!!! If you have a blog, then please mention this one-day event, and if not, then please send a brief e-mail to friends and relatives on your e-mail list, today, to let folks know about "Patriots: A Novel Survival in the Coming Collapse". The new edition features both an index and a glossary. This is the day to place an order. Please consider buying any copies for birthday and Christmas gifts early. This new edition of "Patriots". is priced at just $10.17. UPDATE: When I last checked, it was ranked #7 on Amazon! Many, many thanks!

---

Today we present another entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Letter Re: Preparedness Mindset and Logistics Pay Dividends |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday April 7 2009

Note from JWR:

Tomorrow (Wednesday, April 8th) is Book Bomb Day! This is a reminder to please wait until tomorrow to order your copies of the new edition of my novel "Patriots". The new edition features both an index and a glossary. Many thanks for making the launch of the new edition a success. OBTW, brief positive reviews at various forums and on Amazon.com would also be greatly appreciated.

Coincidentally, I've been told that April 8th of this year is also a special Jewish blessing (mitzvah) day, called Birkat Hachamah, "the sun blessing". This blessing is recited just once every 28 years. I wish our Jewish readers a meaningful Passover. (Christ is my Passover!)

« Old Frontier Forts as Alternative Bug Out Locations?, by R.D. in Wyoming |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Monday April 6 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Letter Re: A Short Term Home Evacuation Taught Some Lessons |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday April 5 2009

Note from JWR:

Just three days to the Book Bomb Day! This is a reminder to please wait until Wednesday, April 8th to order your copy of the new edition of "Patriots". That will be our "Book Bomb" day. By delaying orders until then, we hope to drive the book's Amazon sales rank into the top 100. Many thanks for making the new edition a success.

« Is it Enough?, by Axman |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday April 4 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Disaster Preparedness--Of Lists and Preparation in Depth, by Ed C. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday April 3 2009

Notes from JWR:

Five Days to Book Bomb Day! This is a brief reminder to please wait until April 8th to order your copy of the new edition of "Patriots". That will be our "Book Bomb" day. Many thanks for making the new edition such a success.

Today we present another entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

Today we are also posting a new Profile, that will be added to our permanent Retreat Owner Profiles page.

« Two Letters Re: Livestock for Survival |Main| Bug Out Vehicle Cooling Systems for Extreme Emergencies, by The Oddshot »

Thursday April 2 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present the first entry for Round 22 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 22 ends on May 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« My Initial Experiences with Concealed Carry, by AceHigh |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday April 1 2009

Notes from JWR:

We've completed the judging in the most recent round of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The grand prize winner is: Dr. K., for his two-part article: TEOTWAWKI Medicine and Minor Surgery. He will receive two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!

Second prize goes to Eli, for his article "Real World Observations on Fighting Crime and Criminals". He will receive a three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for his choice of three-day civilian courses.

Third prize: goes to Bobbi A. for her article "Livestock for Survival". She will receive a copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, courtesy of Arbogast Publishing

Runner-up prizes go to three writers: Gertrude, for her article "Bloom Where You're Planted.", Bois d'Arc for "Making the Transition to Country Life", and D.S. for "Preparedness Through Tapping in to the Craig's List Culture: Doing Well by Doing Good". They will each receive a copy of the book The Encyclopedia of Country Living by Carla Emery.

Note to the prize winners: Please e-mail me to let me know your snail mail addresses!

Today we begin Round 22 of the contest. This round of the contest will end on the May 31st. Here is the first entry for Round 22:

« Livestock for Survival, by Bobbi A. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday March 31 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present the final entry for Round 21 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 21 ends on March 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry for Round 22. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« TEOTWAWKI Medical Skills: Thoughts on Becoming a "Woofer" (Wilderness First Responder), by Richard B. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Monday March 30 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 21 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 21 ends on March 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry for Round 22. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« Letter Re: Paying Off Debts with Inflated Dollars? |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday March 29 2009

Note from JWR:

The high bid in the SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction is now at $960. This auction ends on April 15th. It is for a large mixed lot, which includes::

1.) A Warrior Aid and Litter Kit, donated by Ready Made Resources. This is an advanced medic kit package that includes a Talon II 90C folding handle collapsible litter, which normally retails for $560, just by itself. This truly a "full up" tactical trauma kit! This sophisticated medic kit normally retails for $1,500.

2.) A "be ready to barter" box of 26 full-capacity firearms magazines, from my personal collection in JASBORR. This box includes: 4 - Brand new "smoke gray" polymer original Bulgarian 40 rd. AK-47 magazines, 10 - brand new AR-15/M16 USGI black Teflon coated alloy 30 round magazines with stainless steel springs and the latest gray anti-tilt followers, 6 - new condition original USGI M14/M1A 20 round parkerized steel magazines, from CMI (the current military prime contractor) 6 - new condition original Glock Model 20 (10mm) 15 round pistol magazines--the latest production type with "SF" front magazine catch notch . All of these magazines are of recent manufacture (and hence are NOT legal to possess in New York.) These magazines have a combined value of approximately $750, in today's market. Note: If you live in a state where full capacity magazines are banned, then you must choose to: refrain from bidding, or designate a recipient in an unrestricted state, or re-donate the magazines for a subsequent auction.

3.) A large Bury 'Em Tube (# 6L, 43" x 6" with a 5.1 gallon capacity), donated by Safecastle. (a $199.95 retail value)

4.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

5.) An OPTIMUS Terra Cookset for backpacking, tent camping or even WTSHTF, donated by Safecastle. It includes the ultra-compact Crux stove, plus a special small cookset--all very portable and lightweight. (Fuel canister not included.) (a $95 retail value)

6.) A fresh, sealed case of full mil-spec MRE rations with ration heaters, courtesy of CampingSurvival.com. (a $94.95 value)

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $2,800. This auction ends on April 15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

« Letter Re: A Well-Rounded Skillset Requires Both Range-Based and Force-on-Force Training |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday March 28 2009

Note from JWR:

The high bid in the SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction is now at $760. This auction ends on April 15th. It is for a large mixed lot, which includes::

1.) A Warrior Aid and Litter Kit, donated by Ready Made Resources. This is an advanced medic kit package that includes a Talon II 90C folding handle collapsible litter, which normally retails for $560, just by itself. This truly a "full up" tactical trauma kit! This sophisticated medic kit normally retails for $1,500.

2.) A "be ready to barter" box of 26 full-capacity firearms magazines, from my personal collection in JASBORR. This box includes: 4 - Brand new "smoke gray" polymer original Bulgarian 40 rd. AK-47 magazines, 10 - brand new AR-15/M16 USGI black Teflon coated alloy 30 round magazines with stainless steel springs and the latest gray anti-tilt followers, 6 - new condition original USGI M14/M1A 20 round parkerized steel magazines, from CMI (the current military prime contractor) 6 - new condition original Glock Model 20 (10mm) 15 round pistol magazines--the latest production type with "SF" front magazine catch notch . All of these magazines are of recent manufacture (and hence are NOT legal to possess in New York.) These magazines have a combined value of approximately $750, in today's market. Note: If you live in a state where full capacity magazines are banned, then you must choose to: refrain from bidding, or designate a recipient in an unrestricted state, or re-donate the magazines for a subsequent auction.

3.) A large Bury 'Em Tube (# 6L, 43" x 6" with a 5.1 gallon capacity), donated by Safecastle. (a $199.95 retail value)

4.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

5.) An OPTIMUS Terra Cookset for backpacking, tent camping or even WTSHTF, donated by Safecastle. It includes the ultra-compact Crux stove, plus a special small cookset--all very portable and lightweight. (Fuel canister not included.) (a $95 retail value)

6.) A fresh, sealed case of full mil-spec MRE rations with ration heaters, courtesy of CampingSurvival.com. (a $94.95 value)

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $2,800. This auction ends on April 15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

« TEOTWAWKI Medicine and Minor Surgery--Part II: Skin Infections, by Dr. K. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Thursday March 26 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 21 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 21 ends on March 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

The author is SurvivalBlog reader Dr. K , an active duty American military physician. (Part I--on treating ingrown toenails--was posted on Tuesday, March 24, 2009.)

« Tantalum Tom's Front Sight Extravaganza |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday March 25 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 21 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 21 ends on March 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

« TEOTWAWKI Medicine and Minor Surgery--Part I: Ingrown Toenails, by Dr. K. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday March 24 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 21 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 21 ends on March 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival have an advantage in the judging.

The author is Dr. K., an active duty American military physician. I plan to post Part 2 on Thursday.

« Letter Re: A SurvivalBlog Reader at Front Sight |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Monday March 23 2009

Note from JWR:

I heard that the official release date for the new edition of my novel "Patriots" . has been moved up to March 25th. In fact, Amazon.com now claims to already have it in stock, and is selling it for just $10.17 per copy. But I'd like to reiterate a special request of SurvivalBlog readers: If you plan to buy any copies, please wait until the "Patriots" Book Bomb day - April 8th. By forestalling orders and having hundreds of them all placed on the same day, we hope to drive the novels's Amazon.com sales rank into the Top Ten. Please mark your calendar for April 8th. Many thanks!

« Walk!, by Snolden |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday March 22 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 21 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 21 ends on March 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival will have an advantage in the judging.

« Emotional Stressors During Societal Collapse by Campcritter |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday March 21 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 21 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 21 ends on March 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival will have an advantage in the judging.

« Letter Re: Storing Peanut Butter |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday March 20 2009

Note from JWR:

The high bid in the SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction is now at $550. This auction ends on April 15th. It is for a large mixed lot, which includes::

1.) A Warrior Aid and Litter Kit, donated by Ready Made Resources. This is an advanced medic kit package that includes a Talon II 90C folding handle collapsible litter, which normally retails for $560, just by itself. This truly a "full up" tactical trauma kit! This sophisticated medic kit normally retails for $1,500.

2.) A "be ready to barter" box of 26 full-capacity firearms magazines, from my personal collection in JASBORR. This box includes: 4 - Brand new "smoke gray" polymer original Bulgarian 40 rd. AK-47 magazines, 10 - brand new AR-15/M16 USGI black Teflon coated alloy 30 round magazines with stainless steel springs and the latest orange anti-tilt followers, 6 - new condition original USGI M14/M1A 20 round parkerized steel magazines, from CMI (the current military prime contractor) 6 - new condition original Glock Model 20 (10mm) 15 round pistol magazines--the latest production type with "SF" front magazine catch notch . All of these magazines are of recent manufacture (and hence are NOT legal to possess in New York.) These magazines have a combined value of approximately $750, in today's market. Note: If you live in a state where full capacity magazines are banned, then you must choose to: refrain from bidding, or designate a recipient in an unrestricted state, or re-donate the magazines for a subsequent auction.

3.) A large Bury 'Em Tube (# 6L, 43" x 6" with a 5.1 gallon capacity), donated by Safecastle. (a $199.95 retail value)

4.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

5.) An OPTIMUS Terra Cookset for backpacking, tent camping or even WTSHTF, donated by Safecastle. It includes the ultra-compact Crux stove, plus a special small cookset--all very portable and lightweight. (Fuel canister not included.) (a $95 retail value)

6.) A fresh, sealed case of full mil-spec MRE rations with ration heaters, courtesy of CampingSurvival.com. (a $94.95 value)

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $2,800. This auction ends on April 15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

« The 19th Century Home Retrofit, by Y. Cornelius |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Thursday March 19 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 21 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 21 ends on March 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival will have an advantage in the judging.

« Life's Lessons and the Foundations of Preparedness, by A.B. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday March 18 2009

Notes from JWR:

The good folks at Ready Made Resources have very generously added a Warrior Aid and Litter Kit (with a retail value of $1,500) to the SurvivalBlog benefit auction that started on Monday. This brings the combined value of the auction lot to $2,800! The benefit auction lot now includes:

1.) A Warrior Aid and Litter Kit, donated by Ready Made Resources. This is an advanced medic kit package that includes a Talon II 90C folding handle collapsible litter, which normally retails for $560, just by itself. This truly a "full up" tactical trauma kit! This sophisticated medic kit normally retails for $1,500.

2.) A "be ready to barter" box of 26 full-capacity firearms magazines, from my personal collection in JASBORR. This box includes: 4 - Brand new "smoke gray" polymer original Bulgarian 40 rd. AK-47 magazines, 10 - brand new AR-15/M16 USGI black Teflon coated alloy 30 round magazines with stainless steel springs and the latest orange anti-tilt followers, 6 - new condition original USGI M14/M1A 20 round parkerized steel magazines, from CMI (the current military prime contractor) 6 - new condition original Glock Model 20 (10mm) 15 round pistol magazines--the latest production type with "SF" front magazine catch notch . All of these magazines are of recent manufacture (and hence are NOT legal to possess in New York.) These magazines have a combined value of approximately $750, in today's market. Note: If you live in a state where full capacity magazines are banned, then you must choose to: refrain from bidding, or designate a recipient in an unrestricted state, or re-donate the magazines for a subsequent auction.

3.) A large Bury 'Em Tube (# 6L, 43" x 6" with a 5.1 gallon capacity), donated by Safecastle. (a $199.95 retail value)

4.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

5.) An OPTIMUS Terra Cookset for backpacking, tent camping or even WTSHTF, donated by Safecastle. It includes the ultra-compact Crux stove, plus a special small cookset--all very portable and lightweight. (Fuel canister not included.) (a $95 retail value)

6.) A fresh, sealed case of full mil-spec MRE rations with ration heaters, courtesy of CampingSurvival.com. (a $94.95 value)

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $2,800. This auction ends on April 15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

---

Today we present another entry for Round 21 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 21 ends on March 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival will have an advantage in the judging.

« Cold and Dark--An Account of an Ice Storm, by Steve S. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Tuesday March 17 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 21 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 21 ends on March 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival will have an advantage in the judging.

« Letter Re: Wealth Destruction--Real Wealth or Just On-Paper Wealth? |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Monday March 16 2009

Notes from JWR:

In addition to books and DVDs, we now sell a wide variety of preparedness gear through Amazon.com. But please patronize our paying advertisers first. If they don't have what you are looking for, you can order using the links at our Amazon Preparedness Gear Page. By using the provided links, you'll help support SurvivalBlog, with sales commissions. Thanks!

---

Congrats to K.B., the high bidder in our most recent benefit auction.

Today we are beginning a new auction. This one is for another large mixed lot that includes

1.) A "be ready to barter" box of 26 full-capacity firearms magazines, from my personal collection in JASBORR. This box includes: 4 - Brand new "smoke gray" polymer original Bulgarian 40 rd. AK-47 magazines, 10 - brand new AR-15/M16 USGI black Teflon coated alloy 30 round magazines with stainless steel springs and the latest orange anti-tilt followers, 6 - new condition original USGI M14/M1A 20 round parkerized steel magazines, from CMI (the current military prime contractor) 6 - new condition original Glock Model 20 (10mm) 15 round pistol magazines--the latest production type with "SF" front magazine catch notch . All of these magazines are of recent manufacture (and hence are NOT legal to possess in New York.) These magazines have a combined value of approximately $750, in today's market. Note: If you live in a state where full capacity magazines are banned, then you must choose to: refrain from bidding, or designate a recipient in an unrestricted state, or re-donate the magazines for a subsequent auction.

2.) A large Bury 'Em Tube (# 6L, 43" x 6" with a 5.1 gallon capacity), donated by Safecastle. (a $199.95 retail value)

4.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

5.) An OPTIMUS Terra Cookset for backpacking, tent camping or even WTSHTF, donated by Safecastle. It includes the ultra-compact Crux stove, plus a special small cookset--all very portable and lightweight. (Fuel canister not included.) (a $95 retail value)

6.) A fresh, sealed case of full mil-spec MRE rations with ration heaters, courtesy of CampingSurvival.com. (a $94.95 value)

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $1,300. This auction ends on April 15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

« My Tale of the Hurricane Rita Evacuation. August, 2005, by Dan G. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday March 15 2009

Notes from JWR:

Today is the last day to bid! The high bid in the SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction is now at $1,485. This auction ends at midnight (Eastern time), tonight, March 15th. It is for a large mixed lot, which includes::

1.) A "be ready to barter" box of 38 full-capacity gun magazines, from my personal collection in JASBORR. This box includes: 4 - Used original East German 30 rd. steel AK-47 magazines in a "raindrop" camouflage pattern belt pouch, 12 - Excellent-to-new condition original Bundeswehr contract HK91 (G3) alloy 20 round magazines, 6 - Well-used but serviceable condition original Austrian FN-FAL steel 20 round magazines with cartridge counter holes, 10 - Used AR-15/M16 USGI (all Colt made!) alloy 20 round magazines, and 6 - Excellent to new condition original (Norwegian contract) Glock Model 17 9mm 17 round pistol magazines (early type, with "U" notch). All of these magazines are of pre-1994 manufacture (and hence legal to possess in New York.) These magazines have a combined value of approximately $700, in today's market. Note: If you live in a state where full capacity magazines are banned, then you must choose to: refrain from bidding, or designate a recipient in an unrestricted state, or re-donate the magazines for a subsequent auction.

2.) A huge lot of DVDs, CD-ROMs and hard copy nuclear survival/self-sufficiency references (a $300+ value) donated by Richard Fleetwood of www.SurvivalCD.com

3.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

4.) Five cases (200 pairs) of AMMEX Heatworks chemical hand warmers (a $182.50 value), courtesy of CampingSurvival.com

5.) A Brunton Solarport 4 (4.4 Watt) compact photovoltaic power panel and 6/12 VDC power adaptor set, including as USB power port. This is a $120 retail value, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

6.) A Pelican Model 1400 waterproof case in olive drab, ideal for pistols, Starlight scopes, or communications gear. This is a $95 retail value, courtesy of Scorpion Survival.

7.) A Non-Hybrid Garden Security Collection, Garden Bean Collection, and your choice of a pint of fertile grains (Hull-less Oats, Spelt, or Winter Rye), a $50 + retail value, courtesy of Seed For Security.

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $1,600. This auction ends on March 15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

---

Today we present another entry for Round 21 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 21 ends on March 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival will have an advantage in the judging.

« How Many Magazines is Enough?, by Cowboy |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday March 13 2009

Notes from JWR:

Just two days left! The high bid in the SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction is now at $1,435. This auction ends at midnight (Eastern time) on March 15th. It is for a large mixed lot, which includes::

1.) A "be ready to barter" box of 38 full-capacity gun magazines, from my personal collection in JASBORR. This box includes: 4 - Used original East German 30 rd. steel AK-47 magazines in a "raindrop" camouflage pattern belt pouch, 12 - Excellent-to-new condition original Bundeswehr contract HK91 (G3) alloy 20 round magazines, 6 - Well-used but serviceable condition original Austrian FN-FAL steel 20 round magazines with cartridge counter holes, 10 - Used AR-15/M16 USGI (all Colt made!) alloy 20 round magazines, and 6 - Excellent to new condition original (Norwegian contract) Glock Model 17 9mm 17 round pistol magazines (early type, with "U" notch). All of these magazines are of pre-1994 manufacture (and hence legal to possess in New York.) These magazines have a combined value of approximately $700, in today's market. Note: If you live in a state where full capacity magazines are banned, then you must choose to: refrain from bidding, or designate a recipient in an unrestricted state, or re-donate the magazines for a subsequent auction.

2.) A huge lot of DVDs, CD-ROMs and hard copy nuclear survival/self-sufficiency references (a $300+ value) donated by Richard Fleetwood of www.SurvivalCD.com

3.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

4.) Five cases (200 pairs) of AMMEX Heatworks chemical hand warmers (a $182.50 value), courtesy of CampingSurvival.com

5.) A Brunton Solarport 4 (4.4 Watt) compact photovoltaic power panel and 6/12 VDC power adaptor set, including as USB power port. This is a $120 retail value, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

6.) A Pelican Model 1400 waterproof case in olive drab, ideal for pistols, Starlight scopes, or communications gear. This is a $95 retail value, courtesy of Scorpion Survival.

7.) A Non-Hybrid Garden Security Collection, Garden Bean Collection, and your choice of a pint of fertile grains (Hull-less Oats, Spelt, or Winter Rye), a $50 + retail value, courtesy of Seed For Security.

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $1,600. This auction ends on March 15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

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Today we present another entry for Round 21 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 21 ends on March 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival will have an advantage in the judging.

« Selecting Retreat Properties--Pros and Cons of Buying Remote and Off Grid |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Thursday March 12 2009

Note from JWR:

The new Ulysses Press edition of my novel "Patriots" .will be released in early April. Amazon will be selling it for just $10.14. I'd like to make a special request of SurvivalBlog readers: If you plan to buy any copies, please wait until our planned "Patriots Book Bomb" day - April 8th. By forestalling orders and having hundreds of them all placed on the same day, we hope to drive the novels's Amazon.com sales rank into the Top Ten. Please mark your calendar for April 8th. Many thanks!

« Some Thoughts on the Survival Vehicle, by OddShot |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday March 11 2009

Note from JWR:

I've just completely revamped The SurvivalBlog Bookshelf page. By shopping using the provided links, with any title that is sold by Amazon.com you'll help support SurvivalBlog, with sales commissions. OBTW, please do not order the new edition of my novel "Patriots" until April 8th--the planned "Book Bomb" day. This event is designed to boost the book's Amazon sales rank. Thanks!

« Burying a Shipping Container or CONEX, by Danny Papa |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Monday March 9 2009

Note from JWR:

Just six days left! The high bid in the SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction is now at $1,110. This auction ends on March 15th. It is for a large mixed lot, which includes::

1.) A "be ready to barter" box of 38 full-capacity gun magazines, from my personal collection in JASBORR. This box includes: 4 - Used original East German 30 rd. steel AK-47 magazines in a "raindrop" camouflage pattern belt pouch, 12 - Excellent-to-new condition original Bundeswehr contract HK91 (G3) alloy 20 round magazines, 6 - Well-used but serviceable condition original Austrian FN-FAL steel 20 round magazines with cartridge counter holes, 10 - Used AR-15/M16 USGI (all Colt made!) alloy 20 round magazines, and 6 - Excellent to new condition original (Norwegian contract) Glock Model 17 9mm 17 round pistol magazines (early type, with "U" notch). All of these magazines are of pre-1994 manufacture (and hence legal to possess in New York.) These magazines have a combined value of approximately $700, in today's market. Note: If you live in a state where full capacity magazines are banned, then you must choose to: refrain from bidding, or designate a recipient in an unrestricted state, or re-donate the magazines for a subsequent auction.

2.) A huge lot of DVDs, CD-ROMs and hard copy nuclear survival/self-sufficiency references (a $300+ value) donated by Richard Fleetwood of www.SurvivalCD.com

3.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

4.) Five cases (200 pairs) of AMMEX Heatworks chemical hand warmers (a $182.50 value), courtesy of CampingSurvival.com

5.) A Brunton Solarport 4 (4.4 Watt) compact photovoltaic power panel and 6/12 VDC power adaptor set, including as USB power port. This is a $120 retail value, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

6.) A Pelican Model 1400 waterproof case in olive drab, ideal for pistols, Starlight scopes, or communications gear. This is a $95 retail value, courtesy of Scorpion Survival.

7.) A Non-Hybrid Garden Security Collection, Garden Bean Collection, and your choice of a pint of fertile grains (Hull-less Oats, Spelt, or Winter Rye), a $50 + retail value, courtesy of Seed For Security.

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $1,600. This auction ends on March 15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

« Three Letters Re: Hunkering Down or Storing Gear in a Commercial Building |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday March 8 2009

Note from JWR:

There have been several new listings added at our SurvivalRealty.com spin-off site, including this fascinating one in Panama. New listings from all over the world are welcomed. The ads still cost just $30 per month!

« Herbal Cures at Your Doorstep, by Organic Cathy |Main| Quote of the Day: »

Saturday March 7 2009

Note from JWR:

Today we present another entry for Round 21 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 21 ends on March 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival will have an advantage in the judging.

« Letter Re: Best Shotgun Pellet Size for Home Defense? |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday March 6 2009

Note from JWR:

I was just quoted again in The New York Times, by Adam Cohen: Out of Work? Read a Recession Blog. Or, Better Yet, Write One.

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The high bid in the SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction is now at $1,110. This auction is for a large mixed lot, which includes::

1.) Another "be ready to barter" box of 38 full-capacity gun magazines, from my personal collection in JASBORR. This box includes: 4 - Used original East German 30 rd. steel AK-47 magazines in a "raindrop" camouflage pattern belt pouch, 12 - Excellent-to-new condition original Bundeswehr contract HK91 (G3) alloy 20 round magazines, 6 - Well-used but serviceable condition original Austrian FN-FAL steel 20 round magazines with cartridge counter holes, 10 - Used AR-15/M16 USGI (all Colt made!) alloy 20 round magazines, and 6 - Excellent to new condition original (Norwegian contract) Glock Model 17 9mm 17 round pistol magazines (early type, with "U" notch). All of these magazines are of pre-1994 manufacture (and hence legal to possess in New York.) These magazines have a combined value of approximately $700, in today's market. Note: If you live in a state where full capacity magazines are banned, then you must choose to: refrain from bidding, or designate a recipient in an unrestricted state, or re-donate the magazines for a subsequent auction.

2.) A huge lot of DVDs, CD-ROMs and hard copy nuclear survival/self-sufficiency references (a $300+ value) donated by Richard Fleetwood of www.SurvivalCD.com

3.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

4.) Five cases (200 pairs) of AMMEX Heatworks chemical hand warmers (a $182.50 value), courtesy of CampingSurvival.com

5.) A Brunton Solarport 4 (4.4 Watt) compact photovoltaic power panel and 6/12 VDC power adaptor set, including as USB power port. This is a $120 retail value, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

6.) A Pelican Model 1400 waterproof case in olive drab, ideal for pistols, Starlight scopes, or communications gear. This is a $95 retail value, courtesy of Scorpion Survival.

7.) A Non-Hybrid Garden Security Collection, Garden Bean Collection, and your choice of a pint of fertile grains (Hull-less Oats, Spelt, or Winter Rye), a $50 + retail value, courtesy of Seed For Security.

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $1,600. This auction ends on March 15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

---

Don't forget to write your entry for Round 21 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 21 ends on March 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival will have an advantage in the judging.

« Aids to Mapping Your G.O.O.D. Routes |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Thursday March 5 2009

Notes from JWR:

Notes from JWR:

Since SurvivalBlog's readership is growing so quickly, I've been overwhelmed with questions from newbies. To help folks get up to speed quickly, I just created a new static page: SurvivalBlog's Quick-Start Guide for Preparedness Newbies. It can also be accessed by clicking the "Getting Started" button in our top bar.

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A brief reminder that Safecastle's "Ratcheting Rewards" 25% off sale on 30-year shelf life Mountain House canned foods is expiring at midnight (Eastern time) on Friday, March 6th. Get your order in soon!

« The Incredible Disappearing Retreat in the Woods |Main| Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday March 4 2009

Note from JWR:

There have been several new listings added at SurvivalRealty.com in the past few weeks, in Illinois, Nevada, Texas, and even one in Australia. It is rapidly becoming the go-to place for finding survival retreat properties. Some of the property listings make fascinating reading, like the one up in northwestern Montana, near Glacier National Park.

« Self Defense and Christianity, by Tim P. |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Sunday March 1 2009

Note from JWR:

I just heard that Paul Harvey passed away. He was a fine, patriotic American. Appropriately, two of today's blog posts deal with "The Rest of the Story." Someday, we'll meet Paul in heaven. And also Paul, formerly Saul of Tarsus.

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The high bid in the SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction is now at $935. This auction is for a large mixed lot, which includes::

1.) Another "be ready to barter" box of 38 full-capacity gun magazines, from my personal collection in JASBORR. This box includes: 4 - Used original East German 30 rd. steel AK-47 magazines in a "raindrop" camouflage pattern belt pouch, 12 - Excellent-to-new condition original Bundeswehr contract HK91 (G3) alloy 20 round magazines, 6 - Well-used but serviceable condition original Austrian FN-FAL steel 20 round magazines with cartridge counter holes, 10 - Used AR-15/M16 USGI (all Colt made!) alloy 20 round magazines, and 6 - Excellent to new condition original (Norwegian contract) Glock Model 17 9mm 17 round pistol magazines (early type, with "U" notch). All of these magazines are of pre-1994 manufacture (and hence legal to possess in New York.) These magazines have a combined value of approximately $700, in today's market. Note: If you live in a state where full capacity magazines are banned, then you must choose to: refrain from bidding, or designate a recipient in an unrestricted state, or re-donate the magazines for a subsequent auction.

2.) A huge lot of DVDs, CD-ROMs and hard copy nuclear survival/self-sufficiency references (a $300+ value) donated by Richard Fleetwood of www.SurvivalCD.com

3.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

4.) Five cases (200 pairs) of AMMEX Heatworks chemical hand warmers (a $182.50 value), courtesy of CampingSurvival.com

5.) A Brunton Solarport 4 (4.4 Watt) compact photovoltaic power panel and 6/12 VDC power adaptor set, including as USB power port. This is a $120 retail value, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

6.) A Pelican Model 1400 waterproof case in olive drab, ideal for pistols, Starlight scopes, or communications gear. This is a $95 retail value, courtesy of Scorpion Survival.

7.) A Non-Hybrid Garden Security Collection, Garden Bean Collection, and your choice of a pint of fertile grains (Hull-less Oats, Spelt, or Winter Rye), a $50 + retail value, courtesy of Seed For Security.

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $1,600. This auction ends on March 15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

« Did the American Indians Have it Right?, by MMJ |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Saturday February 28 2009

Notes from JWR:

I recently updated the web page for my novel "Patriots", with information on the new edition that will be released in April. The old edition from XLibris just went out of print.

---

Today we present another entry for Round 21 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my "Rawles Gets You Ready" preparedness course, from Arbogast Publishing

Round 21 ends on March 31st, so get busy writing and e-mail us your entry. Remember that articles that relate practical "how to" skills for survival will have an advantage in the judging.

« Depression Proof Jobs for a 20 Year Depression - Part 2: Developing a Home-Based Business |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Friday February 27 2009

Note from JWR:

The high bid in the SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction is now at $710. This auction is for a large mixed lot, which includes::

1.) Another "be ready to barter" box of 38 full-capacity gun magazines, from my personal collection in JASBORR. This box includes: 4 - Used original East German 30 rd. steel AK-47 magazines in a "raindrop" camouflage pattern belt pouch, 12 - Excellent-to-new condition original Bundeswehr contract HK91 (G3) alloy 20 round magazines, 6 - Well-used but serviceable condition original Austrian FN-FAL steel 20 round magazines with cartridge counter holes, 10 - Used AR-15/M16 USGI (all Colt made!) alloy 20 round magazines, and 6 - Excellent to new condition original (Norwegian contract) Glock Model 17 9mm 17 round pistol magazines (early type, with "U" notch). All of these magazines are of pre-1994 manufacture (and hence legal to possess in New York.) These magazines have a combined value of approximately $700, in today's market. Note: If you live in a state where full capacity magazines are banned, then you must choose to: refrain from bidding, or designate a recipient in an unrestricted state, or re-donate the magazines for a subsequent auction.

2.) A huge lot of DVDs, CD-ROMs and hard copy nuclear survival/self-sufficiency references (a $300+ value) donated by Richard Fleetwood of www.SurvivalCD.com

3.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

4.) Five cases (200 pairs) of AMMEX Heatworks chemical hand warmers (a $182.50 value), courtesy of CampingSurvival.com

5.) A Brunton Solarport 4 (4.4 Watt) compact photovoltaic power panel and 6/12 VDC power adaptor set, including as USB power port. This is a $120 retail value, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

6.) A Pelican Model 1400 waterproof case in olive drab, ideal for pistols, Starlight scopes, or communications gear. This is a $95 retail value, courtesy of Scorpion Survival.

7.) A Non-Hybrid Garden Security Collection, Garden Bean Collection, and your choice of a pint of fertile grains (Hull-less Oats, Spelt, or Winter Rye), a $50 + retail value, courtesy of Seed For Security.

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $1,600. This auction ends on March 15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

« Depression Proof Jobs for a 20 Year Depression - Part 1: The Counter-Cyclical Jobs |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Thursday February 26 2009

Notes from JWR:

Here it comes! Despite his campaign promises: "I believe in the Second Amendment. I believe in people's lawful right to bear arms. I will not take your shotgun away. I will not take your rifle away. I won't take your handgun away. ... There are some common-sense gun safety laws that I believe in. But I am not going to take your guns away. .", it comes as no surprise that President Obama is now asking congress to renew the 1994 Federal "assault weapons" and "high capacity" magazine ban. Now, just a few months later he has done an about-face and says he does want to take your guns away. Oh, but its necessary, he says, to save Mexico from the Drug War. If reenacted, unlike its predecessor, the new ban will likely have no sunset clause. Knowing the history of Federal of bans and freezes, the ban will cause the price of many semiautomatic guns to double, and and the price of 11+ round magazines to triple or quadruple. Now is the time to start writing your congresscritters. This unconstitutional legislation must be stopped!

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The high bid in the SurvivalBlog Benefit Auction is now at $520. This auction is for a large mixed lot, which includes::

1.) Another "be ready to barter" box of 38 full-capacity gun magazines, from my personal collection in JASBORR. This box includes: 4 - Used original East German 30 rd. steel AK-47 magazines in a "raindrop" camouflage pattern belt pouch, 12 - Excellent-to-new condition original Bundeswehr contract HK91 (G3) alloy 20 round magazines, 6 - Well-used but serviceable condition original Austrian FN-FAL steel 20 round magazines with cartridge counter holes, 10 - Used AR-15/M16 USGI (all Colt made!) alloy 20 round magazines, and 6 - Excellent to new condition original (Norwegian contract) Glock Model 17 9mm 17 round pistol magazines (early type, with "U" notch). All of these magazines are of pre-1994 manufacture (and hence legal to possess in New York.) These magazines have a combined value of approximately $700, in today's market. Note: If you live in a state where full capacity magazines are banned, then you must choose to: refrain from bidding, or designate a recipient in an unrestricted state, or re-donate the magazines for a subsequent auction.

2.) A huge lot of DVDs, CD-ROMs and hard copy nuclear survival/self-sufficiency references (a $300+ value) donated by Richard Fleetwood of www.SurvivalCD.com

3.) A NukAlert compact radiation detector donated by at KI4U.com (a $160 retail value). 

4.) Five cases (200 pairs) of AMMEX Heatworks chemical hand warmers (a $182.50 value), courtesy of CampingSurvival.com

5.) A Brunton Solarport 4 (4.4 Watt) compact photovoltaic power panel and 6/12 VDC power adaptor set, including as USB power port. This is a $120 retail value, courtesy of Ready Made Resources.

6.) A Pelican Model 1400 waterproof case in olive drab, ideal for pistols, Starlight scopes, or communications gear. This is a $95 retail value, courtesy of Scorpion Survival.

7.) A Non-Hybrid Garden Security Collection, Garden Bean Collection, and your choice of a pint of fertile grains (Hull-less Oats, Spelt, or Winter Rye), a $50 + retail value, courtesy of Seed For Security.

Thus, this auction has a combined value in excess of $1,600. This auction ends on March 15th. Please e-mail us your bid. Your bid will be for the entire mixed lot.

« Making the Transition to Country Life, by Bois d'Arc |Main| Jim's Quote of the Day: »

Wednesday February 25 2009

Note from JWR:

I am pleased to report that we've surpassed the 7 million unique visits threshold, and we now get an average of 128,200 unique visits per week. Thanks for making SurvivalBlog such a huge success. Please keep spreading the word! Keep in mind that you can send links to individual articles and letters posted in SurvivalBlog, simply by clicking on the "Permalink" text below any SurvivalBlog item. Then copy and paste that Permalink URL (from your navigation bar) into an e-mail, a forum post, a web page, or into your own blog. We also have an RSS feed available. (Just click on "Rss" in our top bar.) Many thanks!

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Today we present another entry for Round 21 of the SurvivalBlog non-fiction writing contest. The contest prizes include:

First Prize: Two transferable Front Sight  "Gray" Four Day Training Course Certificates. This is an up to $4,000 value!
Second Prize: A three day course certificate from OnPoint Tactical. This certificate will be for the prize winner's choice of three-day civilian courses.
Third Prize: A copy of my