A man made EMP attack could have the same effect that a natural one would have. The event it self would kill no one. The lack of water and food likely will. Depending on the severity of the attack it could take a long time to get things up and running.
Gold would make a pretty good shotgun pellet in a pinch. At least then it would be worth something.
Gold may not be worth anything for the first couple of months after a Schumer-hits-the-fan event, but it will soon after, assuming humanity survives.
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You know the problem with bad cops? They make the other 5% look bad.
So here is the thing layout, you are over in San Diego, just waiting to unload and all hell breaks loose ... no phone ... hard to get fuel ... all of that. Will you have access to that ammo and weapons?
If you want to think that, great but you may not get much closer to home than you think.
Sorry layout but part of the problem you will face will be caused by talking about what you have. It has nothing to do with the "what if" machine but pretty much common sense. Those who prepare, seriously prepare don't talk about anything and you know why.
But ... No good with being in a mobile job when everything is somewhere else.
It does not matter what we think, talking about it in an open forum is where I was going.
I would not worry about Obama or what ever, it is the others I would worry about.
Having problems with what? Headlights lamps? Seriously? Just get some from any autoparts store, you don't have HID lights.
The Benelli Super Nova 12gauge pump at Big 5 runs under $400.00 and makes a great home protection weapon. You can add an extension for 7 rounds and with a mix on 00 buck shot and slugs you can take care of your family in close quarters. Way too many choices in longer range weapons.
Dave Ramsey says instead of buying gold by lead. The people with the best weapons will own the gold.
Lastly, if you like the way the country is being run and the direction we are headed, you don't have to change what you are doing now. If you are worried and do not like where we are going, do what is best for you and your family. Don't worry if everyone thinks you are bat crazy, your responsibility is to take the best care of those you love. Maybe it's best to prepare what you can, a little at a time. Start with a garden in the back yard and can some veggies to make sure you like the experience.