What does one keep in a SHTF kit? I had a little bugout bag but took it apart last time I moved and have been thinking about building a serious kit. My Winchester Defender 1300 is stock, but still very comforting to have at hand.
One thing I did learn a couple of years ago when the power grid blew out in the Northeast / Midwest / Ontario. Having drinking water ain't enough when everything stops.
As an old Army type, the primary source I use in compiling and maintaining my personal "SHTF" kit is the U.S. Army Survival Manual FM 21-76. Much of the kit's contents, of course, will depend on the environment in which one is living when "the proverbial dreck comes into contact with the revolving blades." You can find the Army Manual at the following site:
http://www.equipped.com/fm21-76.htmTo the Manual's list, I always include a lighter and magnifying glass (for starting fires), a roll of heavy twine, a pair of binoculars, a knife sharpener, Super Glue (for sealing flesh wounds), a high-end multitool (Leatherman or Gerber), plastic bags (large and small), and a basic gun-cleaning kit.
Chapter 3 of the Manual advises including a weapon or weapons and the required ammunition only if the mission (situation) dictates. In my considered opinion, all "SHTF" situations so dictate. My weapons of choice in those situations are the following five, ranked in the order in which they would probably be used in the event of an Alamo-type stand against "barbarians at the gate":
(1) Winchester 1300 Marine Defender 12-guage;
(2) Israeli Industries/Magnum Research Desert Eagle .50 AE;
(3) Colt 1911 (1991A1) .45 ACP;
(4) Rohrbaugh R9s 9mm Luger;
(5) North American Arms Guardian .380 ACP.
It's a lot to tote around, but I have it all ready to go on five minutes notice.