The Golden Horde after cities collapse

Security Concerns Against The Roving Horde After Cities Collapse

Within the context of SHTF survival. Many years ago, I believe that I may have first come across the phrase “Golden Horde” from a novel written by James Rawles, Patriots: Surviving The Coming Collapse (view on amzn) first published back in 2009. Or maybe it was Once Second After by William R. Forstchen back around the same time. It’s a modern-day play on words referencing the Mongol Horde of the 13th Century. The golden horde in the context of SHTF is basically the notion of desperate people leaving cities after a major collapse of infrastructure (food, water, services…).

The Golden Horde

While the phrase originally came from the ancient Mongols who overran eastern Europe in the 13th Century, the prepper /preparedness community uses the phrase as follows:

“The “Golden Horde” is (are) the anticipated throngs of unorganized and organized individuals, groups, and ‘gangs’ who will be out roaming, searching, and even looting & pillaging for food and supplies following a major widespread societal and infrastructural collapse – without the rule of law.”

There’s a lot of varying opinion regarding the possibilities and probabilities of a Golden Horde, and how far (or not so far) they might get from any given population center. (I’ve written a number of articles on the subject over the years.)

UPDATE: There’s renewed interest in this subject, having recently published the following article. So, I’ve updated and added more content to this article on the Golden Horde for further discussion and comment.

No City Can Feed It’s Own People

Under extreme conditions of desperation without hope of external “help”, some will give up as they weaken, while others will desperately extend outward, roving, on the prowl for food, supplies, and whatever they need. Still others will individually, or by group, take advantage of ‘without rule of law’ because they are who they are. It will be dangerous times indeed.

I don’t want to get into the debate about the likelihood or unlikelihood of the Golden Horde itself, or how far they might get. There are lots of variables that may affect this including population density, regional – geographical and other factors. People are going to do different things. But surely some, if not many, will be able to make it out. And they are going to want, and need…

Security Against The Golden Horde

It seems to me, a high priority should be put upon misdirection and/or redirection to lesson your chances of an encounter, or being overrun or even pillaged.

And let me preface this by saying:
I hope this type of situation never happens!

While a physical confrontation may be a last resort, and perhaps unavoidable under some circumstances, one would think that all efforts should be made to avoid the chance of confrontation to begin with.

Someone on the blog commented,

“SHTF and WROL.” “The Golden Horde may in fact be looting and causing general mayhem. Myself, I am hoping people remain civilized for the most part. Looters and angry mobs can become very ugly in short order if unchecked.”

I agree with the hoping part (although not actionable itself), and I also agree that “angry mobs” can (and likely will) become very ugly – quickly. Desperate people will likely do desperate things. Especially if their very survival is dependent upon it.

If there is any possibility of a Golden Horde in your area, no matter how large or small the groups themselves, one might consider a plan of action (and a backup plan) just in case.

How Big Will The Golden Horde Be?

While talking about the scenario of major city infrastructure collapse, you might consider that most will stay. Some say that a city may typically have about one week of food/supply before it runs out. If the power is out, well, water and other issues will surface quickly too. The thing is, most people truly believe that the government will somehow save them. As though there’s enough FEMA to go around. Those who think that way, will likely perish. What percentage? Probably somewhat depends if it’s a blue or red city. Either way, the majority will fall into this category, in my opinion.

I really have no accurate idea how many may attempt to escape. And further, how many will actually succeed, and how far they’ll go /get. But even if 10% hit the streets, that’s a lot of personnel when you’re talking about city population region numbers. That’s why it’s good to live pretty far away from major urban areas (if you’re concerned about such possibilities).

Varying Group Sizes

Hardly anyone will be organized, especially at first. Most group sizes within the overall numbers of exiting hordes will be small.

Consider security scenarios for each of a number of hypothetical group sizes.

There will be individuals by themselves. There will be small groups of just a few or several. Some groups may be larger. And others, more organized, as in offensively – maybe numbers similar to a ‘squad’ (~12). There may even be larger ‘platoon’ size groups, say equivalent to 3 or 4 squads (power in numbers – though a challenge to manage). And so on. You get the idea. It’s going to be variable. Some will present much more of a threat than others.

Having said that, my own opinion is this:

Initially as people’s supplies run out, there may be individuals and small groups who will rove and forage out in search of supplies for survival. Some will scavenge what they need from what may be naturally available. Some will approach others for help and handouts. Still others will become more desperate, demanding, and forceful. A terrible time indeed where some or many will do whatever they need to do to survive. There will be unimaginable pain and stress if and when the cities collapse.

As time goes on, there will be the ruthless element who will establish their own groups, tribes, gangs. Some of the desperate will join up with the promise of a ‘piece of the pie’. They will be a dangerous force for sure.

Misdirect & Redirect The Golden Horde

Organized groups intent on ‘taking’, will likely and initially prey on what they perceive as the easiest targets. They will be looking first for easy opportunity. Why? Because no one wants to put themselves into undue danger. Even the looters themselves.

Be Invisible

One good deterrent in this context is to be invisible. You do not exist. You, or your place. No one can see it from the road. That’s not to say they won’t stumble across it, but if they can’t see it from their routes of travel, they won’t even know there’s an opportunity.

Being invisible to the Golden Horde might be literal (out of sight) or figurative (eliminating invitation while in plain sight).

Literally out of sight

Ideally your ‘place’ is out of sight from primary and even secondary routes of travel. I’m just pointing out that comparatively it’s probably safer in this regard to be “off the beaten path”. Not to say however that you won’t be found. So don’t convince yourself that you’re safe.

For example, I happen to live at the end of our private dirt/gravel road, completely out of sight from anyone. However common sense indicates that ANY road is a clue that ‘something’ is down there… I’m not fooling myself into thinking that I would not be affected. Fortunately however I live very far away from population density, and in a town less than 1,000 – many of whom are living a lifestyle on the side of self reliance.

Thought:
– If you have a garden, is it in sight?
– If it’s summer or fall, people will be ransacking gardens for sure.

Minimizing or Eliminating Invitation

Many or most people live where there are plenty of neighbors. Suburbia. Even out in rural areas many people still have visible neighbors and can be seen from the street.

While there may be only so much that you can do to deter a large organized horde rummaging systematically through an area, you might be able to misdirect smaller groups or individuals a bit more easily (or at least avoid unintentional invitation).

Again, the individual or small groups will be looking for easy opportunity. So make it harder.

You might approach this from two different viewpoints. One is that of “graying out” your abode. To blend in or to appear non advantageous. The other is to present threat of force such that they’ll move along to an easier target.

Both have their advantages and disadvantages.

Blending in.
For example, you might consider that a place appearing to be nondescript, of little value, or maybe even abandoned or having already been looted (how one accomplishes this appearance gets into the creative) – maybe that’s a deterrent to an extent. Although this in itself may also be an invitation for “lookers” who feel they’re safe to check it out because of the appearance of no activity. It’s hard to say…

Threat of force.
You might consider that the appearance of a defensible fortress may likely deter most individuals and small groups. However it would also signal that there are supplies to be had there. You may be opening yourself up to the possibility of word spreading, and maybe even a larger attempt. But maybe not, depending on your own region.

The Right Combination

There will be no absolute solution to this dilemma. What may be effective in one area might not in another.

I’m of the general opinion that being ‘grayed out’ and unremarkable is preferred (and ideally not seen at all from the road). While at the same time being backed up with a strong defensible position. Plus, a backup plan to bug out (even just temporarily) if things get out of hand (no sense dying over ‘stuff’). You could have cache’s elsewhere to get you by.

You need to understand that a large enough force WILL take your stuff (or worse). Have a plan to get out. Ideally you would know they’re coming well in advance of them getting on your property. Well in advance of any contact. You might listen for their communications (radios). Decide your plan of action early. If the decision is to become offensive, this will ideally be addressed before the force is already on your property. Otherwise, if it doesn’t look do-able, it may be best to get out under that circumstance. Save your life. Stuff isn’t worth it. Although you will need a secondary plan to survive afterwards! (No one said this was going to be easy).

There’s nothing to see here. Move along…

– Noise. Don’t make it. It will “attract”.
– Smells. The aromas of cooking may carry a long way.
– Smoke. It can be seen and smelled. Wood stove?
– Solar panels. They will be a commodity. Can you see them from the street?
– Light. At night it’s quite visible through windows.
– Supplies in plain view? Hide them.

Security patrol
You’re going to need it.

– Enough people to do shifts?
– Night Vision Device. A game changer and force multiplier.
– Have a security plan?
– Adequate hardware.
– Comms

So now that I’ve got this topic going, let’s hear some of your opinion…

[ Read:

When It Hits The Fan – What You Have Will Be All There Is…

Nighttime Security Night Vision Devices | A Force Multiplier

Safer Survival Distance From USA City Hordes

The Zombie Hordes Distance From Cities

When Resupply Breaks Down

161 Comments

  1. The old saying “Walk softly but carry a big stick” comes to mind. Be the gray man. Walk softly and don’t attract attention whether it be by sight, sound, or smells.

    Carry a big stick. You must have defensive plans if/when you are found out. The means, ability, and mindset to do what is necessary to defend family, friends, and property when a bad situation arises is going to be both mentally and physically challenging. When violence is directed towards you are you willing and able to do ANYTHING necessary to defend yourself or group. Are those in your group also willing and able? You will only be as strong as your weakest link. Being mentally and physically able to do violence and be wise enough to get the heck out of dodge when your group is overwhelmed is of utmost importance.

    Your mind can be your greatest weapon if you prep for the worst but it can also be your worst enemy if you panic. THINK!!!

  2. Wow, after reading your post Ken, I give up. Nah, just kidding, but this is a subject that very well could be discussed the rest of the week and still not cover the possibilities. I guessing that as I’m pondering my responses, so are everyone one else.

  3. A horde is not only looking for food and stuff, but for information. You live in an area where many become acquainted with you. They see your travels, your deliveries of materials, your purchases in town, your visits to the garden center, ….. so when pressed, your neighbors are forced to buy some favor or a life – yes we know there is a guy up the road who has a garden and stuff. Eventually, everyone talks.
    You may not be as grey as you wish.

    1. hermit us
      We buy everything 30 to a 100 miles out side the small town 7 miles away from home. Fuel lock card in South Carolina, food from a chain store 35 miles away. ( No shoppers card) Feed store four towns away at three different stores and never the same amount. Weapons and ammo over 125 miles away and use a address of another house we own under a different name.(land trust) All mail order goes to a buddy’s coin shop 40 miles away. Use different ways in and out of our home area, anyone can be gray with a little work.

  4. Like you Ken we have moved to a unremarkable property on a dirt road off of a county maintained road in hopes of being out of the way. No major city for 100 miles. Only two neighbors on either side, well armed homesteaders. We are surrounded by farms, which may become a target after the cities and towns are picked over, but are far more appealing targets before you get to our little acre of land. The dirt road is not a dead end which I see as an asset in case of bug out. Praying it never comes to that but preparing in case it does.

  5. I’ve given this a lot of thought in the context of my own subdivision.

    My immediate neighbors are preppers and shooters but I don’t know many other folks in the community. Should the big event happen, I’d gather one or two of my reliable friends and immediately visit each home in our sbdvsn. I’d invite everyone to a confab out in the street between Phase One and Phase Two.
    I would hope to institute a military-style watch system with patrols.

    There are two automobile entrances we’d need to watch. For the sbdvsn homes that back into woods, I’d want patrols to watch for infiltrators sneaking in that way. A 3-rapid shot alarm could summon help, if car horns weren’t available.

    Blocking the main entrances with cars and logging chains would be useful in deterring many horde-members.
    I don’t know how much enthusiasm I could whip up for this but it’s worth a try.

    For a good read on a system of deterrence/access control, read Lucifer’s Hammer by Jerry Pournelle and Larry Niven. In this story a comet strikes earth and a group of survivors holes up in the California hills.

    1. Whistles just went on my shopping list (since I haven’t left the house since Nov. 7th) for this weekend.
      50s will likely get me out!!

  6. Much will depend on what degree the collapse/shtf event is. Much of my defensive mechanism would be predicated on what modes of transportation the “horde” has at their disposal and the speed that their depredation has progressed in the big cities. My remote location, by roads is 30 miles from a small town of around 2,000 population, 80 miles from a small city of 40,000 and 150 miles from the largest city in the state with a population of less than 200,000. I expect the “horde” will only leave their familiar hunting grounds after they’ve pillaged all available resources there. I can only imagine, having spent a career as a big city cop (million plus population) the chaos that will transpire in those environs.

    Rural folks, like my situation with about five households on a six mile stretch of unpaved county road, will have to cooperate and work for a mutual defense. We already do that now due to the fact our law enforcement response time is measured in hours not minutes. Prowler? You call a neighbor for backup, then the sheriff.

    Back to the subject of transportation. A good portion of the land surrounding my homestead has never been fenced and has some four wheeler trails that have been established over the years. If that method of transportation is still available, these trails will have to be dealt with. I live five miles down an unpaved road that connects to a two lane paved state “highway” that on average has 20-25 vehicles pass by the intersection with my road on any given day. I have maybe 2-3 vehicles go by my land on any given day (usually the same guy). Increased volume, vehicle or on foot, will be quickly noticed. My home sits about 150 yds off the county unpaved road. While the majority of my land is un-fenced, I have a perimeter fence along the road and surrounding my house not coming closer than 150 yds. Anyone I don’t know and trust will be challenged if they are on the wrong side of that fence. Anyone coming up behind my home will have already traversed about 4 miles of very inhospitable terrain to get there, which translates they are on a mission and better show me quickly that they have no ill intent. The approach to my house is fairly level within my fencing with a combination of woods and pasture. I keep the brush and undergrowth cleaned out except along the roads to direct foot traffic to these normally traveled paths and so I can detect them easily once there on my side of the briers and brambles. Hopefully full time security patrols will not be necessary. My plans right now (if it actually becomes necessary) is for night observation from camouflaged hides already established and heads on a swivel during daylight hours as we go about our activities. If absolutely called for, one hide gives me one mile command of the road leading to my location in both directions to observe an approaching sniper looking for his own hide. As conditions change, so will tactics.

    1. I failed to mention that the west and north sides of my level ground consists of dozier piles covered with inpenetrable blackberry bushes with one small maintained opening easily visible from our home.

  7. The greatest danger you will face will come from within five miles of your home. Think about it.

    1. I agree, even though we’re reasonably remote at the end of a mile and a half of gravel road, with only four other homes on it, these hills are home to plenty of meth heads and career welfare cheats. I’ve driven down some of the little roads, basically trails, and come on some places I won’t be going back to.

      The welfare cheats aren’t the foremost danger, although they could get violent I’m sure. The dopers are going to be the real problem, as they’re in their own little societies. Out of dope, out of food, desperate for both, I could reasonably expect a dozen or so forming a group.

      Our plan includes 10-12 people from the surrounding area, and three relatives if possible. That many people can stand security on shifts and still get the labor done. Our place is approachable from three sides, with the fourth being a 70′ cliff above a river. We overlook two directions, while the third would require more a remote outpost on higher ground. In other words, we’re defensible against a fairly good sized group.

      Of course, there’s always the more pro-active method of eliminating the danger before it gets active. In talking to a neighbor who’s lived here all his life with his large extended family, his comment was “Well, we pretty much know everyone around here, the good and the bad, and I’ve got a backhoe.”

      1. My area has it’s share of government subsidized dopers, too, and everyone knows who they are. Yes, many of them are locals whose only wealth is the parcel of inherited land they squat on. Most of their decent kinfolk already question how they’ve made it this long without someone killing them. They know that their survival won’t be long as most folks won’t tolerate their hen house ways if not constrained by rule of law and probably would not seek retaliation for a righteous cleansing with cause.

  8. If you have any questions about a Golden Hoard simply look to videos and news stories of the actions of people during a Black Friday Sale anywhere in the United States.

    I personally worked off duty security at a Wal-Mart during one of those and i witnessed the actions firsthand. If they will act that way for cheap marked down junk what will they do for the last gallon of clean water or last gallon of gas or last Happy Meal. Be ready !!!!!!!!!

  9. OK well I am well and truly screwed. Just past my backyard fence is where two hidden alleys intersect. In good times it’s a hassle to to be alert and chase away the gibs-me-dats on trash day when they ransack the trash cans looking for CA recyclables.

    The very best defense I have… and I’m surprised no one mentioned it yet… is dogs. I have a great big dobie/shepherd mix. And I also look after my daughters dog, a very elderly chihuahua. Let me just say that little abuela chihuahua has some kind of over the horizon radar. She ALWAYS gives the distant early warning of anything unusual. Then the big dog takes over. If the noise doesn’t subside quickly, then I get involved.

    Another good thing to have is networked cameras. I’ve got 13 live channels that provide 360 degree visibility. There is a monitor in my office and a flat screen on the wall of my bedroom. Any concerns in the middle of the night? I’ll switch on the flat screen and assess whatever is happening before deciding on a course of action. That system and all motion detector lights on the property are backed up by high capacity UPS’s. That’s handy if the power is out or if someone gets cute and tries to cut power before entering my property. Each camera also has IR night vision out to 150 feet.

    It’s about all I can do here in the land of fruits and nuts. Most of my neighbors are pacifist dingbats; a liability not an asset unfortunately. On the bright side, I live in a weird location, literally the last house in LA county within this city. Also right at the point where three PD jurisdictions begin and end, most don’t even know this little street exists. Even Google can’t get it right. It shows I have two houses in two different cities, on top of each other. Ha! So if/when the proverbial **** hits the fan, I’m pretty sure what needs to be done, will be done without attracting a whole lot of attention. I just pray to God we never see that day.

    1. Ghost:
      I cannot envision anyone getting close enough to either dog with a knife. They’d have to breach the fence first, then chase them down, they are never tied up. And guns tend to make a lot of noise. If I am home it will take me about 25 seconds to scan the cameras, find the source, position, take cover and return fire.

      1. McGyver,
        You’ve got a nice setup with your cameras. I’m going to show your post to hubby to get some ideas about outside security.

    2. Sam:
      This brings back a bad memory. Last year I was instrumental in having an extremely violent, career criminal returned to prison. It took the police a couple of weeks to find and arrest him. The dummy was bragging of his deeds on Facebook. The cops now have a way of plotting known landmarks in pictures and cross-checking with google, et al. Under California’s new AB109 law they put together a multi-agency strike force and hit this punk at 4am. He was hog-tied in the back of a squad car before he ever knew what happened. After that I started receiving threats against my home, family, self and my dogs. Indeed one day I heard a hell of a commotion at my back gate. I went to check it out and discovered a man, who looked like he was fresh out of the state penn… doo-rag, prison tatts, etc. He was hanging over my gate trying to entice my big dog to take a treat from his hand. Thankfully my dog is very intelligent and intuitive. She backed up to a safe distance and barked ferociously until I arrived and got rid of the trespasser. I suppose the guy could have just tossed it over the fence. Thank God he wasn’t very smart.

    3. No such thing as as Pacifist… They just act that way…. When the winds change, they’ll hoist the Jolly Roger! ;}

  10. My hunker down location is very rural. Population of this town is > < 500. 100 miles to the nearest city of any size. A few preppers around , but not many. Scattered out . I am pretty well supplied for 14 – 15 people for a year. More with garden and hunting. I DO expect problems from neighbors. Desperate people resort to extreme measures. COUNT ON IT.

    I expect the Golden Hoard will largely die off and scatter before they get this far. My threat will come the first couple of weeks. My group is large enough to provide a good " watch ".

    I have never shot another human being. I hope I never have to. In present day normal times, I don't have anything that cant be replaced. Nothing that is worth a human life. That being said, in a true SHTF situation, all that changes. I have 14 people depending on me and my supplies.

    1. When your doing a Hearts and Minds campaign (Allies INSTEAD of Hostiles) please remember to eat what you are trading them for work for. Eating “high on the Hog” while your doling out corn mush might not give you a loyal ally.

      Yes I have eaten home ground feed corn, best with fatty foods but decent. Horse grade feed is GOOD Stuff. You do not feed 2+K horses stuff that will sicken them and they are sensitive to feed issues.

    2. Phred
      Nothing that is worth a human life. That being said, in a true SHTF situation, all that changes
      If its my life or theirs, im going to do my best to assure its theirs

      1. Yepper, in bad times with the restraints gone, even good people will justify any actions they take, remorse will be a rare commodity. You are going to have to get mad, junkyard dog mad, become the sheepdog, not the sheep.. We all will be tested, I pray that our resolve is firm and our trigger fingers work.

  11. Post a hand written sign that states: “Family is sick right now and in bed. Cannot answer the door, think our food is bad or flu or something…”
    Thanks

  12. LURPS, OPs & LPs. If you wait to engage the potential threat till it is within striking range, you invite disaster. Depending on your group logistics, the aforementioned tactics give the most critical element crucial to winning any fight, information. These can all be covert in nature and serve as an early warning system. Group members on patrol or post should be familiar with reporting troop size, weapons, vehicles, communications, location, and general behavior. Obtaining this info well in advance of any contact will effectively double your chance of assessing and responding to any situation more efficiently. ( think interlocking fields of fire, cover, ambush, ect.)

    1. True, but “LURP’S” (actually LRRP’s), OP’s (observation posts), and LP’s (listening posts) are heavily dependent on dependable communications. The most common available to civilians, FRS and GMRS, can’t be depended on much over 1/2 to 3/4 miles in heavy cover which would rule out LRRP’s. An effective LRRP is highly trained. Stealth is his trade. The average internet warrior I’ve worked with is about as stealthy in the woods as a Wal-Mart cart boy in a parking lot with his earbuds in place. All these tools are dependent on a fighting force already in place defending a redoubt of some sort, not a scattered community of folks trying to grow food, livestock, and hunting and gathering.

      That said, most rural communities have few roads accessing them and city folks tend to take the easiest routes to travel. OP’s would work for these and could be manned on a rotating basis.

      1. Dennis,
        Strait up on your comment. I went to Recondo School back in the 70’s and a lot is involved in recon and reporting OPs, LPs and basic patrolling, ie. SALUTE report. I get the biggest kick reading about them prepper ”special ops” teams and Rambo soldiers stating what they will do when the Horde comes there way. Large organized gangs will wipe the floor with many of these groups. They have the organization, field experience in urban warfare, killer instinct, and weapons to carry out their missions without worry of taking losses as in the big cities death by violence is an everyday occurrence. Only LEO or military can stand up against that type of dedication and mindset.

        1. Hey Broadwing

          This is an unpleasant subject but I can’t think of anything more important for people to think about.

          I’m sure this kind of scenario is completely foreign to some people’s thinkin, outside the realm of their reality so to speak. IT IS NOT. This is somethin everybody should be plannin for just as fervently as water.

          I do understand your comment about dedication and mindset, If somebody readin is sorta on the fence about fightin, I don’t want them to feel they don’t have a chance. I would not want to test the resolve of a man fightin for his life, his family, his property and his very way of life.

          I have said it several times before, absolutely nothin will be more important than the capability and willpower to protect ourselves.

          Also if the gangs ain’t careful they might very well become the hunted……….
          Good Luck to you Sir

  13. Whats that saying,
    All plans are out the window when that first bullet is fired

  14. Historical methods of defense often used difficult access; particularly effective was the mountain pass (internet search for “World’s Most Dangerous Hiking Trail”) which only allowed one person at a time. With such a method an army of hundreds could be defended by a handful of defenders as they knocked them off one-by-one. There are many examples, Machu Picchu, Herodium the Palace-Fortress, etc.

  15. So here ya go, how does this de escalate?

    Your neighbors show up demanding you divvy up your supplies because they know you have food and guns and ammo and you have enough to share with everyone because you were nice enough to share some with them a few days ago, theres quite a mob, men, women, kids, dogs, pet mice,,,,

    So where does it end?

    1. You have to de-escalate before it starts. My personal plan is that when the SHTF I call all my neighbors together and we have a long hard discussion about food. Then a party to pull out lawns and get the yards planted. I provide the seeds and the know-how, they’re responsible from that point on. If they won’t cooperate I close my doors. As far as anyone in the neighborhood is aware, all I have from that point on is seeds, which I already distributed. At that point I can tell them which weeds to eat, and they’re on their own.

      If people come to my door I’ll tell them which weeds I’m eating so they can pick their own.

  16. D
    Heres a question
    Does the group of neighbors with pitch forks and torches heading to convince you to share your supplies match up with rabble rousers?

  17. By definition this “Golden Horde” is always coming out of a city of some size and invading your rural domain …. little discussed is the very real possibility of FEMA having the pre-SHTF timetable to evac this Golden Horde out to your locale – filling up the county fairgrounds, convention center, auction barns, colleges, and just dumping groups off at the small towns dotting the roads and railroads … good intentions to supply and tend to these misplaced sheeple – but good intentions and a dime get you very little in the way of practicality ….

    1. What you describe is a possibility. What is a foregone fact is that the state prisons, which many times are located in rural areas, and county jails will be opened and abandoned as a “humanitarian” act by officials if they are no longer able to feed and guard the prisoners. Many of which are stone cold addicts, thieves, and murderers.

      1. those guards and prison officials are locals – nooooooo way in hell are those convicted murderers, rapists, druggies and general dirtbags getting loose – if the prison can’t feed them any longer they’ll helped to the happy hunting grounds …..

        1. Illini warrior,
          If only it was that simple. What of “honor farms” and lower security lockups for some of the less dangerous inmates? I think it will be a toss up. At best LEO will try and keep them together and get them to fend for themselves. Depends on how deep the shtf.

        2. Have had a chance to speak to a few of the guards that work the Alto GA. prison. If it turns bad keys will be broken off in doors. Control panels will be smashed with fire axe as well as power panels. Exit gates chained and locked are disabled in the close positions. Was told some of these people threaten to kill us everyday so I’m going to let them out to find my home and family. Please!

        3. the guards and officials know who is who when it comes to the violent & dangerous – there’s gang bangers being held in the county jails around the Chicago area that are 50X worse than the max security prisoners in Joliet Stateville ….

          talked to plenty of correction officers – between the hospital pharmacy, vehicle maintenance and groundskeeping that “‘last meal”‘ before walking out the door would solve everything ….

    2. Yup- I recently found out that the local fairgrounds, about 3 miles from me as the crow flies, is a planned area (fema camp?) for disaster victims. Plans are to bus or fly them in. This is in large part that this little area sits on top of water.

  18. Lots of discussion on deception (mostly Security via Obscurity), but what sorts of misdirection can people do? I’m guessing that most folks don’t have the luxury of living in an already-obscure homestead. Things like having a long dirt driveway and a house you can’t see from the road are great, but not something you can DO. (short of selling your current home and buying one like that).

    The (fake) plague sign seems like a mis-direction plan. That might dissuade the average person, but maybe not the violent (who would take the sign to say ‘weak victims inside!’.

    If you can’t hide, what sorts of re-direction measures might be taken? Set up a ‘lootable’ house (easy target) nearer the main travelled route with a few low value items to loot — so the horde feel like they ‘got something’ and move on? Perhaps, if you know the likely course of the horde, you arrange a couple of these faux targets to lure the horde farther from your house.

    What else for re-directions?

    — Mic

    1. BTW, the ‘lootable’ faux target assumes there are abandoned houses around you — not that you’re building them.

    2. Mic,

      Exactly. And this is the type of specific examples I’m hoping that people will brainstorm.

      While many will re-actively say that they’ll just pick up their AR (or whatever) and start shootin… I would rather we put our heads together and come up with some clever redirection techniques. There have been a few so far. But let’s keep them coming…

      1. Spent brass scattered on the front porch and outside a few windows. Perhaps augmented with bloody footprints and drag marks leading away from the home.

        Posting warning and diversion signs assumes basic literacy, a grasp of English and a >70 IQ. Have you ever met a Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13)? There was a nest of them living next door when I lived in LA. These folks are more ‘visual learners’.

      2. I’m naive, but most thinking here seems to be about making problem people move along, so they are someone else’s problem. I wish there was a better solution, like keeping them confined to their originating area. I would volunteer to be part of that task force …

  19. To many people, including me, the term “Golden Horde” conjures up images of large groups of hungry, drug crazed looters boiling out of heavily populated areas after a major SHTF event, to scour the country-side looking for food, money and whatever else they can loot. The archaic term brigandage comes to mind. While this may be true to some extent, I think that is a distortion of the real facts, in an otherwise docile society not inclined to commit brigandage in the first place.

    The “Golden Horde” includes everyone who has failed to prepare for SHTF and that includes most, if not all of your neighbors, friends and family, not just those boiling out of heavily populated areas.

    Neighbors, acquaintances both close and casual and family members will be your biggest threat. I think trading and bartering will take care of most of that threat. I’m not sure how I’d deal with what remains although I have thought about it. I hope it never comes but I’d posture that the brigands boiling out of the cities, along with what remains of the local threat can be dealt with the same way… with force and stealth. I hope it never comes to that. Just saying.

  20. My hope,
    Is that

    1. Our small full time resident community will remain somewhat civil, knowing we are on an island, there are under 100,000 full time residents, there are already large groups fairly into gardening and organic food, and a large long time group of residents who hunt, fish, etc and have deep roots.

    2. People come together because of our small community and background.

    3. The government stays the hell out of the way and doesnt try to rule people,,,, This is my biggest concern, government as a whole is staffed with a bunch of jackazzes,

    I would have a hard time chasing off a hungry family, but i will have no problem dumping dozens of mags into a bunch of gov thugs thinking they can just direct and demand,,,,

  21. Unless there is a catastrophic event, I believe we will see regional collapse of society. Watch some big cities like San Francisco, Baltimore, Chicago, Philly, … then we will know how supposedly civilized populations deal with shortages. Hopefully, we will see how far and how violent looting extends from these cities – then we can determine if our own location is survivable.

  22. To be brutally honest where I live is indefensible, Philadelphia 50 miles Southeast, Reading 20 miles East, Allentown/Scranton 40 miles North, Lancaster/York 30-40 miles South, Harrisburg 20 miles West. Major transportation routes to include Turnpike 10 miles away interstates 12 miles, state highways surrounding me completely.

    Additionally, I live in a single family home in a nice middle class housing area 125,000-250,000 dollar homes located 1 mile from Walmart and 2 large grocery chains. A low income apartment/project housing complex is 1/2 mile away with about 75 units, and the County prison is 2 miles away. We’re 1 mile from our city limits with the city having a population of 26,000.

    When I originally moved here we needed to be close to where we worked. It’s a nice area but a high value target that’s indefensible. Bugging out until trouble passed would be our only option. Those of you who live out in the rural areas are lucky. You’ve got a chance of defending your property, we don’t. Just being honest. Even with my military training I couldn’t defend for long.

    1. Look at Pennsylvania Realestate on your computer. Go to Berks county land & farms there is a nice remote property on Blue Rocks Road. I looked it over in October when we were back there for our 50th. class reunion. There are other good areas around Shartelsville also. Too many relatives for me to move back.

      1. Thanks for the tip, nice area but closer to the interstate then I’m at right now. Realistically, I’m not interested in moving nor do I want to go through all the hassle of relocating just to escape a situation that has a very low probability of ever actually taking place. Like it’s veen stated by others, we have no idea what actually will happen.

        I’m betting our lives that TEOTWAWKI won’t actually occur in what’s left of our lifespan. If the worse happens I’ll just do the best I can. I’m pretty prepared for a 60-90 day SHTF situation, and I’m trying to increase my preps to 6-12 months. If I have to leave the homestead I have an option or two I can use. As it stands today I’ve got higher priorities in my life such as us enjoying retirement to its fullest.

        1. Broadwing: Enjoying life now is very important! Times are relatively good we should enjoy it, all the while putting stuff back for a rainy day or for worse.

          That being said your situation may not be as bad as you think. You are not the high value target in the area. People will be looking for the Walmart and grocery stores etc. All you need do is discourage people from coming for you and yours. A handful of people on house tops could defend a four block area. with a good view of the street and warning shots before they get too close like a Korean neighbor hood did in the Rodney King riots. When the bullets started hitting the ground in front of them the mob turned away to find an easier target

          Some Walmart That Way signs a few blocks away wouldn’t hurt either. Skull and Crossbones signs with Do Not Enter a little closer should preserve ammo somewhat.

  23. wow. A lot of thinking behind these responses. gives me a lot of things to think about and ponder.

    One thing that is coming out is that whatever ‘our plan’ is, we will need to know what the local government and law enforcement plans are. I think in most cases, dovetailing in with them might be the best plan, certainly do not want to oppose them unless they are way off base. But either way, it is important to know what they are. I think that what might come out of this is the extension of LE by the deputizing of local armed citizen ‘militias’ who will set up patrols.

    Perhaps one way to ‘steer the horde’ is to know the local emergency preparedness plans, and try to steer the crowds to ‘shelters’ , ‘help centers’, even ‘FEMA camps’, and away from our locations. I am sure that in a case of SHTF the local LEO will be sent out to ‘assess’ the local resources at hand to help out these centers. I guess it will be up to us at that point to decided how much we want to support the relief effort, or try and hide what we have. Here again the government will lean heavily on the ‘producers’.

    Whatever is done, one thread that seems to be apparent is the need to organize and communicate across the board with others in our community. ‘ no man is an island’ seems to ring true.

  24. In the spirit of the stated subject of today, I’ll throw out some simple advice. Being that it’s free advice, place what value you will on it’s usefulness.

    We are creatures of habit. We live in a world of highways, roads, and “beaten paths”. These are not always the shortest routes between two points, but the do tend to always be the easiest path. Modern mankind is lazy. We will pick easy over difficult every time, unless there is some reward awaiting at the end of the challenge to do otherwise.

    Because of this ingrained trait, in warfare/survival, roads can become killing fields. Game animals are no different. They tend to take the path of lest resistance when travelling from place to place. For this reason, the smart hunter knows where these paths/trails are, or knows how to recognize by terrain where they are likely to be. The smart hunter will parallel the beaten path from a distance that allows him to observe whatever is using the path. This means his travels will be more difficult, but he is far less likely to encounter his quarry unprepared. Likewise, he is less likely to encounter a trap laid by another hunter who took advantage of animal nature, or, in turn, he himself can lay traps along that enticing trail of least resistance with catching game as an objective, or inflicting pain on an adversary.

    Or, you can stumble down the beaten path, struggling under the burden of a 100lb rucksack, carrying your state of the art fully accessorized AR-15 with a thousand rounds of ammo, gambling on the hope that the hunter really can’t put a 40 grain .22 rimfire round through your left ear from hiding fifty yards away.

    Guerrilla warfare is real, in shtf it’s inevitable. Prepare accordingly.

    1. Hey Dennis
      It will definitely be a “thinkin” game. We should always be tryin to out think the other feller.

    2. I am a huge fan of the lowly .22. I have been thinkin several years I would sit out here on top of the hill in the blackberry briars with a 22. If I see a fly I just might shoot him in the eye…….you made an excellent point like you always do. Now before anybody says anything, I have “real” weapons as well. The .22 is much under appreciated especially from a stealth perspective.

  25. I have often thought if you did hide in “plain site” maybe you could have some planned items to lay about. A few bullets on the ground/floor. Couple of cans/bags of food, smattering of coins or WHAT EVER looks like anybody would find useable. They will spread out searching all of the rooms/closets. Possibly as the hordes came and went a few goodies might just be enough to satisfy for the moment. Maybe they will move on. In the mean time they will be arguing about who will get what and how to distribute. I picture the hordes like dog scavengers. We have all seen a cur dog. They sniff and poke around moving the whole time. If they get a scrap of food they linger slightly longer searching the area. When nothing is found they move on. Of course there will be some squatting too. But hunger and thirst make people move on. Happens in our world right now today.

  26. Having seen and been in the Rodney King Riots part 2. (the violent one).

    I can say that I take away inspiration from the Korean Community in Central Los Angeles. Their businesses and homes came through somewhat unscathed. They live near each other, they banded together, shared resources and guarded each others shops and homes from the rooftops in 1992. The cell phones were still working and they spoke in “code” to each other that was not decipherable to the local authorities ( Korean- the mother tongue.).

    Within my own community: Weapons are chosen on the basis of the small statured and physically limited can operate them with proficiency. Very few 44 magnums and 45’s here. The ammo is too heavy to carry 5oo rounds over long distance. My wife and others would have an ample supply of 9mm weapons and ammo in a variety of platforms that have one thing in common: They do not jam. They go bang every time the trigger is pulled and the safety is off. In shotguns: I have my 12 gauge and my wife has her 20 gauge.

    If the Golden Horde fails to read the signs and continues to try to infiltrate, they may survive but they will risk injury or blindness if they proceed. Strategic withdrawal would involve setting up booby traps and cones of defensive fire. Ballistic vests do not protect the feet, ankles and legs. Removing the can of peaches may trigger a rat trap-shotgun shell in your face. Yes, some thought has gone into this.

    There are easier targets to go to and would it not be better to head for the safe confines of a FEMA camp?

  27. We once lived outside of a town which was once reasonable sized. over the years it has been populated with those from escaping the SF and bay area. The town is now a city with a good sized population which dh & I discovered on the day of his eye surgery. Looked like little LA with the traffic back up on the freeway. Golden Horde on wheels…..

    With this new revelation, it is now apparent that we must replace the subdivisions parcel map where we reside. Although we are miles outside of this city a bike rider can reach our area within a matter of hours or a walker 2-4 days top.

    Why the parcel map? Simple our area has large sections of land with a few homes on them, but growing each year. Better to know which parcels are occupied with friendly like minded parties, over those which we know have druggies, felons with nefarious backgrounds. Remember better to know they enemy? The roads in and out can be squeezed down for single file parties or vehicles that try to enter or exit.

    Our dilemma last few years we have little contact with the neighbors we once had, but know of a few who are prepared to take a stand. Question will be what about the others who reside here. Almost forgot the larger draw– water… one of two lakes located in this area.

  28. On the passive side of redirecting we are surrounded by water, swamp, wet lands, and heavily wooded forest. There is only one way onto our road as it is a dead-end road. At the beginning of our road there is a sizable culvert that runs under the road. If that part of the road is destroyed, no one will be able to drive down the road.

    To get to our house you have to come down a long driveway. Since we have an impenetrable wall of thorny brush as much as 15 feet thick surrounding the house, there is no other way to the house except the long driveway.

    Knowing that we can be overrun with a superior force I have buried, hidden and disguised about 2/3 of our food and critical supplies. Then if we feel the need to abandon the house for a short while we also have a sign to post on the door.

    It reads like this, “John, we had to leave early, food all gone. Help yourself to anything you might need to survive. Just remember about the booby traps.”

    Speaking of booby traps, we do have several. They will be lethal booby traps. There will be a sign warning anyone who enters that they enter at the risk of death.

  29. Something to think about. Bright colored day-packs. You know the cheap ones. The ones you see on the discount/clearance racks for $5 at Wally World. They would make great bait. You want to increase your odds as a hunter? Hunt over bait.

    Can you think of anything more appealing to a hungry human scavenger than a highly visible pack filled to bursting with…….. grass, leaves, and rocks, hanging from a tree branch a few feet off a beaten path? Being observed by a hunter, secure in his camoflaged hide, oh say, 50yds away.

    1. Understand please, these tactics can be used to kill an adversary, but also can be used to better observe their intentions without resorting to deadly force. It gives opportunity to see if they are travelling alone, with a companion, or with a straggling group. If not alone, you will be able to overhear their conversation and possibly their plans and if they are armed. I don’t adhere with the shoot first ask questions later philosophy of some. I’ve watched a many of deer pass by me unharmed because they weren’t what I was looking for.

    2. Dennis,
      Sounds like you are describing the wily art of ‘man-hunting’. It certainly has better chances of survival against a superior force than ‘playing Rambo’ with guns a blazing. A big part of armed survival seems to be knowing when to engage, and when to stay hid. Some of you seasoned Vets learned this the hard way during war time. For the rest of us, it is something we will have to think about and acquire with time.

  30. OK – like many scenarios of SHTF, a game plan is needed. They call these things SOPs or Standard Operating Procedures. One’s call to action I have called a “trigger”. What event will drive you from your home? It may not be the Golden Horde or Zombies, one may want to hide in plain site. If you are on your own, leaving before the horde gets to your doorstep may be the best option, but then, you may end up one of the horde. My suggestion is to get with a like minded group, identify ALL possible critical events and figure out at least one – maybe three possible reactions as options. Have your team (other like minded individuals in on the game plans) look it over both on paper and on site, see if they can pick holes in your plan of action and maybe offer alternatives. The Golden Horde issue applies if we are bunkering in place or have found a place we considered safe – until the Horde arrives there. If we have a standard garden,, it will be found! If we have an off-grid location where we do non-traditional gardening, we are more apt to have the horde bypass it as it is not easily recognizable. Planting the “Three Sisters” like the American Indians did leaves out the marks of farming and can be developed in clearings not accessible by roads. Just need to ensure it is not on some shortcut path.

  31. I really don’t expect too much trouble here from “just people”. I wouldn’t think there would be much trouble from “gangs”. But it only takes once…….so I have thought about it. I live a mile off the paved road, the first quarter of that mile is through the woods. I would fell trees on the driveway to block it. There is only one way in, one way out, other than some really rough trails. The rough trails would make them vulnerable enough to be neutralized. My only real threat would be from people on foot.

    I have a distinct advantage, I have lived here 30 yrs, I know every rock, stump, groundhog hole on my 75 acres. I would also depend on my dogs, not necessarily for attack but mainly for intel. They know how everything smells, sounds, and feels here. It is their domain. They are always alert and any changes no matter how small. They can recognize a strange vehicle a half mile away creepin slowly on the driveway even when I can’t hear it at all. Nobody will walk up on em without bein heard or scented.

    There will be much easier places to pillage than here. I truly hope it never comes to this, but if it does it will not be caused by me.

    1. wood56gas,

      Me too. If my time comes, it will be on familiar ground. Too old and ornery to run, too tough to eat. I reckon if somebody wants to endure the pain of taking me out, they’re welcome to my place.

  32. I wish I knew of a veteran who was experienced in setting up perimeters. I would like to be able to send topographical maps, videos, and pictures of our home. While I have thought carefully about defense, I sure would appreciate expert advice. I would also like to know where I went wrong in my thinking.

    I think this could become a profitable business for a vet, especially a disabled vet. There are plenty of Preppers who would pay for expert advice and there are plenty of websites to advertise on.

    1. Sorry posted too fast. The point of the Soda exercise is to know how far a Molotov Cocktail can be thrown into your window effectively. Not perfect but a good start.

    2. Hey Skeezix

      There are a lot of decent like minded folks nationwide that have formed militias that would be happy to help you. Most of the time they are right under our noses and we don’t see em. Maybe you could gain some intel and carefully feel around in your area, just a thought.

    3. Skee, in the book Cold Times she says make a map of your area. One can do that with google or try your state comptrollers office at a .gov site. Start with your address and look around. Here in Tn, I can look up all the parcels in our area and get the owners names as well. Just need the address. It is public knowledge. This is on my agenda SOON.

      1. Mrs. USMCBG
        We will go to the country records division an have a paper print out of the massive subdivision in which our property is located. From that I can acquire the parcel numbers along with names address which can be either be transferred to the actual paper map or an index sheet which will allow additions or changes when property changes owners.

        When I was a member of our private road board we had that map an never replaced it after it was destroyed. Time to update information since there are a lot of newbies in this area.

  33. My concerns of the “Golden Horde” and who will they be, plus a few resolutions on “Redirecting & Misdirection”

    1. the .gov;
    Sorry all there is NO WAY you’re going to escape this biggest leach/scavenger/looter/thieves, they WILL find you and TAKE anything/everything “for the better good”, and if your part of the “collateral damage” they could care less, Period.
    If you want to survive the .gov, you had best have more than one (hopefully 2 or 3) “Stash” of things you’re going to depend on, hoping these parasites can’t find everything. So yes Redirecting & Misdirection the .gov by giving up what you have, and move to your next location or stash.

    2. Your neighbors;
    The next-door white-trash/redneck neighbor that has a good idea you have Food/Water/stuff, now he has 2-5 starving kids and a wife that’s yelling all the time.
    This is a tough one, do you just shoot them all as some would suggest? Do you share F/W/S with them and never get rid of them? Do you have a meeting with them before TSHTF and now they know even more that you’re prepared? I would greatly suggest to Redirecting & Misdirection you become even worse than them for the first few weeks/months, become even worse than the “Gray-Man” become a slob with torn clothing, become dirty, stink, messed up hair, look like you have not eaten in a few weeks, and begging for food/water. Hell even set out a 5-gallon bucket of poop and 1/2 roll of TP outside the front door, and for crying out loud, do NOT shoot off a firearm unless your life depends on it, that will only draw attention to yourself. If you have nothing and are as bad off as others they will not ask of you.

    3. The Rioters;
    99% of the people that riot are just being stupid; they think they now can do anything they want; burn cars, smash windows, throw rocks and run around like complete jack-asses.
    As someone already mentioned, these idiots are easy to ‘Redirect” just point a gun at them. Be slightly organized, act as if you know what you’re doing, and if they get close fire a few shots into the air, 99.99% of the time they will scatter like pigeons. Rioters are, for the most part, brainless fools that are “having fun” and not really thinking about the next meal, they just want to steal that Big-Screen-TV. Heck, even the “master-minds” that Soros hires and busses to riots are easily detoured, remember the Tattoo Parlor with 6 standing down hundreds?

    4. Gangs and Misfits;
    This group are starting to organize and know what they are told, nothing more. Gangs like MS-13 and the likes that need gun-sights on the side of their handguns usually are only following orders, and become violent at the drop of a hat.
    Easy fix, take out the ole-fat-boy with the tattoos and cornrows that’s sitting at the BACK of the gang. Sure there will be someone else in-line, but they will need to regroup and asses if “that place” is worth the risk. Like many have said, unorganized groups are easy, they usually don’t have the proper equipment to fight at night or long distances, that sideways pea-shooter may hit 50 yards (maybe), not the 500- 1000 yards a decent 7.62 and a good scope will.

    5. Organized and trained hunters/ex-military;
    I believe this group will not show up for quite a while, for they will be depleting the first 4 on my list, they WILL NOT put up most of the aforementioned. This group will hole-up and defend their ‘sanctuary’ until such time as the first “die-off” has accrued.
    Defending, Redirecting & Misdirection these groups is going to be difficult; they will not be easily fooled by the wave of a hand. They will know 99% of the ‘tricks’ you know and will employ strategies learned in actually war/fighting. The only advantage you “may” have is the knowledge of the land/area, your ability to “rig” the homestead and basically not show your hand before contact. Again being the Gray-Man and having nothing of value may help, but like the .gov, good luck.

    6. The lone-Man;
    This is a person that obviously has the skills to become invisible, to track, hunt, kill, and survive. He is the person that could take out your guard-persons and not make a sound. If he wants what you have, there will be not much to stop him no matter how big and well trained your neighborhood weekend group.
    How are you going to Redirecting & Misdirection this person if they want you? You’re not. The only chance you might have is to, 1. Be this person (and I doubt if many of us will). 2. Have this person in your group and know the risk. 3. Hope like hell he passes you by.

    Basically if your very lucky and happen to not be spotted by a few hundred Rioters/the .gov/ the Loan-Man than sure you probably will be ok after 6 months, that’s a HUGE “IF”.

    Than the real fun starts, rebuilding, trying to provide food/water/etc., establishing a community of those that are not trying to TAKE everything you may still have.

  34. NRP, #5 &#6 could possibly be the better choice to join up with. Perhaps the more civil, and willing to work with you. Notwithstanding some criteria of course.

  35. Hey Calirefugee
    Hope you’re doin well. You always make excellent comments with lots of info. I do understand your point but I guess I have a different perspective. I’m not a violence monger, don’t wanna harm anybody but, If it is indeed gonna happen and I do believe it is inevitable at some point, I hope and pray I am here. I would love to be able to help my decendants along in whatever way may be required. If needed I wanna do my part on whatever scale called for. I know some may disagree, and that’s ok.

  36. One topic not discussed–how long will the gas last from parked vehicles stolen by the hoods in cities??

    1. JJ.
      Gas may last up to a year if kept away from air, please see a few articles Ken has done on fuel storage….
      As a side, please ask questions that are off topic in the Saturday article area.
      Thanks

      1. wow–I thought gas stolen from vehicles to get to the country by thugs ‘was’ on topic.– pardon me!
        My thought process doesn’t work like most. :-)

        1. JJ;
          Apologizes, When you asked “how long will the gas last from parked vehicles stolen by the hoods in cities” it was interpreted on how long will stored gas last or still be good, not how much could be available for the “Hoods”, aka Gangs, to use on retreating from the cities.

    2. NHM,
      I think In a grid down situation, it would draw like moths to a flame. But I think an organized gang would send out scouts first, to check it out. So then what would your reaction be? Shoot and kill anyone drawn in? Might be a curious neighbor. That would suck. But if you had communication with everyone in your area, and your allies knew the ruse, it might bag you a few scouts. At that point though they would probably catch on and become more cautious. But like some else mentioned, using “bait” is not a bad idea, just need to make sure who is a friendly and who is foe. Just MHO.

      1. I have no intent to engage them this is to get them to expend time and resources away from my AO. I am not Duck Hunting I am encouraging them to wander far away mayhap to seek resources over there. We have discussed Man Trapping but do not want to get a neighbor who was merely curious. Traps do not know (Potential) Friends from Foes.

        Sorry to say I am not Gov.com with a burning desire to be the Police in SHTF.

    3. If I were them I would lay low in the dark and just watch the lighted target from afar and see what goes on. I would be interested in where the gangs go to roost……..

      1. Hopefully my friend the Gang does not have some of that fancy FLIR stuff that makes Ghillie Suits nearly useless. Would make your plan to watch them and look for their roost pretty dangerous.

        Again as I’ve said before I am very adverse to sacrifice my Tribe members.

        1. NH Michael
          I apparently didn’t make it clear, you asked what people thought of your plan……If I “were” the gang, I would lay back and watch your plan……I would be watchin to see what was goin on around the “decoy”……….I don’t think any “gang member” worth his salt would arrive to see the light at a dead run. And yes, if there were gang problems, I would be most interested in where they were roostin…….dangerous? Perhaps, but it will be a very dangerous time. Personally I think ridin a bicycle around towin a trailer would put the rider at great risk. Good Luck to you Sir

        2. Wood56gas (cool name BTW) as I see it my folks know the area and the trails hopefully far better than the visiting Gang Members.

          So the Redirecting/Decoy mission while dangerous is worth that Extra Day while they are investigating the decoy to prepare for a Gang visit and has the hope that they will indeed search for resources away from my AO.

          When SHTF every day my defenses and resources will be increased. Better to be an Anvil for the Gangs Sword then to put my fingers (Tribe Members) out to be slashed.

        3. I hear you Michael. I just imagine myself on a bike, I compromise my ability to hear, my ability to spot motion in other places, While I am denegratin my own abilities, I am supplyin somebody else the perfect opportunity to spot myself in motion and possibly to hear me. Not to mention the fact that somebody can hide and knock me clean off the bike with nothin more than a stick.
          We’ll just use a whitetail for an example, I can spot a deer thats movin at a trot down the trail for several hunderd yards if terrain permits, that same deer sneakin along the trail in the edge of the woods is much more difficult to see. I am much more comfortable sneakin, stoppin, lookin and listenin,and if need be, just hide and wait, that’s just me, your mileage may vary.

        4. I would also assume you have your tactical bikes blacked out to eliminate glare.

        5. Bikes are drab indeed. No lights or reflectors. While I can agree that recon on foot can be a lot quieter you give up your ability if spotted to pop smoke and flee faster than the gang members (maybe younger than I) can give chase.

          My folks will not use roads so vehicle advantage will be small at best.

          That White Tail (or tactical bicycle) moving on a moonlit night is still pretty hard to spot unless you happen to be already waiting in a Ghillie Suit. The Value of a Lighted Target is you can see it MILES away. I have no interest in setting it up with in foot patrol range of a Gang “Roost”.

          The point of the Decoy is to MOVE that Roost farther away from my AO. Miles away in rough terrain.

        6. bicycles, moonlit nite………how do you plan to defeat the FLIR you mentioned earlier?

        7. Michael
          I appreciate you sharin your perspective on things. It’s interestin to hear how others do things….it’s stopped rainin, I need to go find somethin constructive to do. Good Luck to you Sir

        8. Distance and Terrain as FLIR/Night Vision although very good can not see miles in treed and rough terrain. Please remember that you can see and thus seek out lights from over 7 miles away THUS my frequent suggestions that folks GO DARK.

          From my experiences in Bosnia and other bad areas like Baltimore MD gangs do not have good light or noise discipline. They are pretty sure they are the Alpha Predators in the area. Now some rogue Special Forces team THAT is an entirely different kettle of fish. If that is the Golden Horde scenario then let the Hellfire Missiles blow me away. :-)

        9. NH Michael, wood56gas, and all others,

          Stealth and quiet is your friend. Keep in mind though, in a true grid down, shtf scenario, sound carries a whole lot farther than most folks realize. In modern society there is always mechanical generated background noise that will not be be present after the balloon goes up. That “stealthy bike” ‘s tires on a rock/gravel road will sound like a popcorn popper and be heard as far as 1/2 to 3/4 mile away, especially at night. On pavement, with any speed at all, the chain and gears will sing a much louder song the most imagine. You would be wise to test theories while times are good and adjust your plans accordingly. When being shot at is not a good time to discover what sounded good in theory doesn’t really work.

    4. If I know how to get gasoline and diesel out of under ground tanks so can others

      1. Actually Old Alaskan that has been discussed in my tribe. Logistics is key to surviving even for Gangs.

        Yes I can get fuel out of an abandoned gas station but not everybody has the equipment and security plan to hold a gas station. Gangs with a solid gas station base, water, sanitation and food can be quite a problem.

        Thus my comment on how to stop a vehicle in such a way as to disable it and bring them under fire. Thus the question of Friend Vs Foe ID.

  37. “””please do not think making your home “look Abandoned” “mock Burnt out” etc will get you a pass in a SHTF situation”””

    I have always thought this would encourage, not discourage raiders.

  38. I am curious how far the gov will go. They will have access to all of our bank card purchases. Will know what we have bought especially large quantity of ANYTHING. The elite lefty socialist like Besos would certainly roll over on his customers. After all shouldn’t we be made to share.

    1. Find the nearest restaurant supply house. buy your basic beans and rice there. Repackage into smaller containers. PAY CASH. Wear a hat, Look down when in the store.

  39. Hey CR
    With all due respect, I think we are far past the idea of gov fixin anything. In a castrophe your well being will be largely up to you. The idea with the pickup and food will likely get the driver shot, then the food thrower, then they will take your truck with the food in it.
    No matter what kind of problem causes the shtf, human behavior will be much the same.

  40. Stand my ground
    that’s a lot talk. Lose lips sink ships. Ever heard that?

    1. Yep I heard that one before.. But we need to prepare. None of what I wrote happen over night. I took years to put together. When the time comes, it’s already to late to start. Plan and prepare now, while we still can.
      I let some of that info out here, to show and help everybody see what I think needs to be done. It’s, unfortunately, not a secret in my community where I stand. To many yrs standing up for my rights, it’s just the way it is.

  41. We are pretty far away from everything so my biggest fear is my neighbors. Everyone working together is a great idea but there is always those who believe you should share because they have nothing. They are spending their $ on fun stuff while I work. Sometimes I feel like chicken little. I am hoping when the shtf they might start to realize that no work means no food. That will help with most.. And after reading an article about new happenings that may not be to far away!

  42. Wood, thus the idea of getting community organizations, volunteers, etc. involved for the good of the community. .Gov will eventually be maxed out. I guess the idea is for communities to pull together and pull through. Like someone recently said, make do with what you’ve got. Of course that scenario will be influenced by the socio-economic factors of the surrounding area. And may not necessarily be feasible at all in some areas. If community cashes are available, this may help to reduce to the golden horde to a more manageable golden few. Speculation of course .

  43. At this point, every single idea no matter how good is just speculation

    1. Still feel this way, now its 2022, still just guessing, with any luck it will be another 4 years and we will still be guessing

  44. Part of being invisible for a single person or a person alone is to blend in and have a secured home. I am going to become an apartment prepper and will blend in with 200 plus other units. My curtains will be neutral, and I wear neutral clothes outside. There is enough space in the condo apartment to store supplies. Ring numbers are listed with the surname, not the apartment unit number. I really wish they would not put the surnames at all in the vestibule. Basement lockers are often covered in shower curtains to hide the contents. Storage ottomans are good as they can hide supplies. Also suitcases on wheels are easy for seniors to move around – and can hide non perishable goods in the closets. At least one woman who lived alone was murdered by Russell Williams, the Canadian military commander. Many women like the safety of apartment condos.

  45. When I came back in 70, my girlfriend now wife said I changed that I no longer laughed and I was cold. It stays with you.

    1. My step son asked how I got PTSD. I told him I see dead people, many times a day and every single day.

  46. There is a storm coming. Please keep stacking and packing. Family is everything. God bless you all. This is a great site. Thanks to all of you.

  47. All good points but I was not willing to discuss some of the ruder methods on a public board. As someone said about loose lips.

    That said while I agree that a lot of the Golden Horde is mostly fiction Gov.com can CREATE them by bussing them out to “Safety” to be abandoned. Thus OUR Problem.

    1. Making active deterrents is not hard. But I think it will only work for a very short time. It will not take long for the badguys to start using captives to walk in front of them. I’d feel very bad about taking out some kids mom who was walking in front of the gang because they told her they would kill her children if she didn’t.

      It might be easy to pull the trigger on a MS13 guy coming up the driveway but how about a young mother with a babe in her arms? Then again, is she a scout for the gang?

      Yeah, I pray it holds together because I don’t want to have to make those kind of decisions.

      1. Ok, think about it for a minute, then visualize that beaner chick showing finger that im sure you have seen on the interweb,,,,
        Think about all the lying manipulative bleeding hearts in government,,, both elected and appointed, they can be oh so convincing when they bust out their boo hoo story face,,,,
        You gettin the point yet?
        IF and thats a big if and dependent on many factors, but IF it comes down to that kinda crap, are you really going to worry about others before yourself or your loved ones?
        Think a bit deeper if you still said yes,
        Personally, NOBODY comes before me or mine

      2. The young mother with a baby victim OR gang scout is why you need a Medical holding pen/isolation area for unplanned visitors. Sanitation reasons first if you bring in someone that is sick you expose your whole group to it. Not good from the medical point of view.

        Second holding them for 72 hours or so you can observe their actions and behaviors. Did she treat that baby as her own or a prop? Is she looking around for her peeps? Is she suffering from drug withdrawal or taking them from her own pockets? Behavior is hard to mask for 72 hours.

        lack of Sanitation and betrayal from with in has caused more castles to fall than siege.

  48. Pain Field Generators? birdshot or 22 to the shins? Red Neck version :-) and about the decoy truck throwing food out I would not want to assign that duty to anybody in my tribe. Very Unlikely that driver will survive.

  49. 😎👍🏻
    Excellent post Old Alaskan,
    Reality…… i like it.
    All the plans go out the window the first thing that doesnt go as planned, my guess is it will be about the first thing that doesn’t go as planned.
    City dwellers, are city dwellers, as you said, gang bangers will be too busy trying to gain dominance against eachother, look at chicongo for proof of that. The gubbermint, will be heartily occupied just dealing with the urban centers, it wont go well, not my problem, yes some people will leave but as you so well stated i doubt they will get far.
    People have all sorts of romantic fantasies of what they are going to do, what its going to be like etc etc…thats all it is, fantasy, truth is NOBODY knows anything about what, how, who,,,ALL just speculation. What happens in books, is just fiction, sensationalized situational fiction.

  50. So let me guess, you are going to negotiate with an armed group that is intent on borrowing everything you own?

    1. With a clear threat you mention Nailbanger it’s Shoot Shovel and Shut Up.

  51. NH Michael, BiH is an interesting place, but those tactics may not always work here. Cultural upbringing has a lot to do with making folks here in the US get off their duffs and use the partisan way of fighting : ) And yes, Sarajevo is nature wise a beautiful place even being shelled down to nothing.

  52. CR hope you’re doin well
    Please consider the notion that any group of hungry people will be dangerous. Fair number of em likely to have a gun…..

  53. Well, I have skimmed over most comments and have not noticed in any of them, including the article itself, any mention of this thought; Should the SHTF this bad in this County, what do you think China would be doing? They would be on our doorstep so fast it would make the “Golden Horde” look like Boy Scouts. Think about that.

  54. Two paragraphs taken out of my SHTF prep manual I’ve been working on this past year……

    “Security is very important to our survival. Neighborhood watch/security in cooperation with our trusted neighbors is absolutely necessary. There are approximately ~20 people in our so called immediate neighborhood (across State Highway ??). 24/7 armed roving security teams (2 men per team) and home/building watchers equipped with portable CB/FRS/GMRS/Ham radios with firearms available will be established soon after the grid-down begins. The folks with military experience and/or civilian equivalent will be charged with this mission and appropriate firearms training and security protocol training is required.”

    “Martial Law will be ordered shortly within a few days or in a week or so after a significant grid-down event. We will work this into our security plans and act accordingly. In any case, we will be forced to work in concert with the local Sheriff’s office and City/State Police authorities if available (they will want our food, weapons and ammo…this cannot happen!!!).”

    My point here is that individuals or families will not survive–period. A reinforced “platoon” size unit or larger consisting of local folks is necessary to contend with the looters to include law enforcement…especially law enforcement.
    Out here.

    1. 5.56_Patriot,

      Who gets to join your militia? How and who chooses/decides on leadership? How are backgrounds checked, or is any verification at all taking place? Do you have a written code of conduct, sop, general orders, rules of engagement…and disciplinary board to enforce them?

      I ask these questions because, I myself would be very wary of a bunch of self-appointed, unaccountable folks taking it upon themselves to be the enforcers and/or protectors of the community. It sounds like a good concept on the surface, with good intentions, but any group that can project strength and power can turn into the community bullies exerting their wants and needs over the weaker residents. The Taliban after all was a militia. The militias of historic America were every able-bodied man in a community where everyone was intimately acquainted with each other…no one was a stranger.

      Have you or others in your circle thought of becoming reserve deputies or officers to obtain some hands-on experience dealing with ne’er do wells during relatively sane times? If you see local law enforcement as a potential adversary, how will you deal with prisoners…or are prisoners not in your plans?

      I see these as legitimate questions. Seems I remember a “militia” in the news fairly recently that was, more or less, formed around FBI “informants” and agents…and talked into some pretty serious trouble just by running their mouths around the very ones that brought them together.

      Militias can serve a legitimate need, but it’s serious business, needs serious organizing and training, and must be recognized and accepted by the community it intends to protect.

      Please don’t take this as an attack…I’m just trying to point out possible pitfalls…and these or just my observations.

      1. Dennis,
        It’s not a militia. You missed the entire point.
        Go to Oathkeepersutah.com…Community Preparedness Team (CPT), you’ll see my plans.
        Good luck.
        Out.

        1. 5.56_Patriot,

          Just back home from burying my cousin. Did as you suggested and visited the site you referenced. The following is copied from their site and was the only reference to their stance on community protection.

          “__________COMMUNITY PROTECTION TEAM_________

          The CPT is a critical part of our Constitutional mission and provides security, upon request, during natural disasters, economic stress and unrest.
          This team is made up of military and Law Enforcement veterans, and skilled civilians who rescue, support and protect those who are in need.”

          This statement was underneath a group holding aloft a Thin Blue Line flag. Your “SHTF Manual” portrays law enforcement as adversary and excludes mentioning former law enforcement as eligible for your security group. That’s ok by me…it sounds like this is going to be your people, and evidently the folks you want in your group have a negative feeling towards that segment of the population. The nation Oath Keepers organization also includes current and former law enforcement officers (many of whom are also veterans). Your “manual” appears to be at odds with the organization you cite as the model.

          The Oath Keepers Utah cite also says this …”We accept only individuals who respect military, law enforcement and first responder service, and value their sacrifices.”

          You reject the term of “militia” as describing your group, and I have no problem with that, but you failed to address the accountability questions which may be of interest to anyone following the model you shared.

  55. I remember this. I was still a lurker then. It all seems a lot closer now. Many good observations. Comms was mentioned a few times. I agree with the importance of comms. Much more so, now-a-days. I’ve come to realize how much can be done with comms. I’m not a military man, but I am a hunter.

    If ya know they’re comin’ you’ll be far better prepared. Crazy times are nearly here.

  56. Well-supplied individuals or small groups maybe, but I don’t believe in the golden horde as described – a throng moving out from the cities in a grid-down scenario. People hesitate. Even given plenty of warning, folks pause in the face of disaster. Even living in storm-prone areas, people do not keep their vehicle tanks topped up and go bags ready. 83% of Americans live in urban areas. By the time it dawns on most of them that no one is coming to help, they will already be hungry, thirsty, and thus physically weak and not thinking straight. 35% of the population is under 15 or over 65. 40% of the rest are medically classified as obese. Those folks, and the others burdened with them, aren’t going very far very fast. . . .
    I do think that the greatest danger to the prepared will be the desperate unprepared neighbor. (And outlaw biker gangs that have a hierarchy and are used to acting in concert. We have those around here in the summer, but not many this year for some reason.) Those of us who are already bugged in would be wise to try to foster a preparedness lifestyle among our neighbors, whether or not they are formally part of our “group.”

    1. Anony Mee,

      A thoughtful post, and I agree. Folks will hesitate leaving familiar surroundings, whether urban or rural.

      I live where many fantasize fleeing to during a societal meltdown. I know every spring, creek, and natural shelter quite a wide radius around my place…the best hunting spots, the best fishing holes, the best hiding spots. At my age and physical reality, bugging out would just hasten my demise. That’s just being honest with myself.

      I do have some concerns with an influx of folks into my area though. Proximity to a National Forest, coupled with the popularity of off-road vehicles and some locals renting out parking spaces for camping trailers, has brought fair numbers of weekend recreation seekers who are a minor pain in the butt now with their beer drinking antics and high-speed stunts.
      I fear that these “outdoorsmen” anticipate “bugging out” into our area if things go bad. Hopefully I’m wrong. From what I’ve seen so far, they seem well prepared in alcoholic beverage stockpiling, but can’t seem to have room to bring extra fuel or spare tires for their vehicles…I’ve been approached for both on occasion.

      1. Dennis, Have state and national forest lands, as well as huge swathes of commercial timber, here. Then there’s the rez right up the highway. Since the new owner of the last spot on the road has blocked river access we get almost nobody down here who doesn’t live here. Being near the end of a long dead end road gives a sense of security.

  57. Distance isn’t going to save your ass. There will be some running vehicles no matter what you hypothesize. Marauders on bikes will be able to cover 10 plus miles easily. I believe a neighborhood or community defense is going to be the best solution. Not 100%, but effective enough to probably cause most small to midsize groups to find softer targets.

    1. JJ in Wis,
      do you realize just how easy a target, or multiple target’s would be on motorcycle’s. that’s just in the movies.
      bikes are not that fast or maneuverable. they can’t ride and shoot at the same time, and a squirrel or greasy spot in the road can take one down. old motor oil spread out on a road will work.
      i have riding for years and still do to some events. i got dumped by a cat one time. i have new teeth now.
      they may come, but they will be in cars or trucks. if they come on bikes just pick your targets. take out the one in front and the rest will pile up on top of em.

  58. I’d have to agree with a few other comments on here in regards to strength in numbers. A shorter lived SHTF is one thing but if you’re talking about something more drawn out (3 or 4+ months) odds of survival drop quick if you’re going at it alone regardless of location, if even a smaller group shows up at your door. Reality is we all need to sleep, eat, use the head from time to time. All of which put us in very vulnerable positions. Think you need at minimum 4-5 able bodied adults whether it’s family, friends, neighbors to increase your odds. I say 4-5 because it’s barely enough to complete household chores, hunt, sleep, etc and still have at least 1-2 people on some sort of watch detail. But not too large a number that your dealing with multiple egos, ideas, opinions etc that things could become disorganized more quickly. If it’s just you or a smaller family bows the time to start developing relationships with any like minded neighbors JIC. Just my 2 cents

    1. I agree with you in theory….the proverbial BUT, my reality was while living outside Phoenix in 2010, I was invited and had a short lived involvement with a prepper group of serving law enforcement types with families who were decent enough but as the discussions and agreements were made…..all were inclined to agree that a local Walmart distribution center would be a idea way to acquire goods in a time of crisis, the rationale was get some before the ‘bad guys’ hit it. I quickly and quietly left that group, even though I understood their logic, I would not accept their position and if that means I need to be a sole survivor type then so be it. Human nature always brings the either the best or the worst out in a person, even a family, or group if some principles are not kept. I may be wrong, but I think of an adage that fits…”try not to live up to my expectations”. Would appreciate your comments, what would you do in a like situation?

      1. Every food distribution warehouse in the country has been targeted by at least one organized group of survivalists, some are targeted by several groups…who will find themselves facing each other, or in deep trouble…because their own group arrived late to the scene and isn’t able to do anything against the people, who are already there…and waiting to defend the place.

        There is no need for any group, which has taken a distribution warehouse to move on…or just loot what they can carry away(very hazardous)…chances are that is where they shall “nest” for the duration of the crisis, unless they are defeated, or are otherwise forced to abandon the site.

        A distribution warehouse, not only provides food and supplies, but with good shelter for a very large occupation force.

        All of these locations will be battlefields, and despite the food…not very a very healthy place to be.

        I imagine there shall be instances where groups arriving at the location, will seek to join with others, in a desperate effort to grow their forces to the size needed to gain control and hold it. Talk about DRAMA.

        1. Ision, Listened with half an ear to a podcast the other day, something about lessons to be learned from One Second After. Guy talked about all the stuff to do if the S HsTF, like go to the pharmacy, bug this and that, etc. Thought to myself, no, that’s why we prep. So we can close the gate and keep out of harm’s way with our necessities already laid in.

  59. As retired law enforcement with many years of experience, I can tell you that your biggest threat will come from your own neighborhood.

    1. I agree with that statement. Especially during the first stages. That’s also why population-density is such an important factor. More people per square mile, more problems per square mile…

    2. Joe Friday & Ken,

      I believe that too. I live 5 miles down a six-mile county-maintained rock road with maybe 10 full time residents. I “know” all of them, have no reason not to trust any of them but one, but there are only a couple that I trust completely. The rest I trust to only do what benefits themselves at the time and circumstance.

      On the other hand, there are about 5 other families who own land, maintain either homes or cabins that only come up on weekends and holidays, but have made it known this is where they are coming if/when things go crazy. They are fully aware of what’s coming. I’m in very good standing with all of them. We’ve built close ties and share the same concerns and goals. These, and those coupla close friends, are the ones that are hooked into our GMRS connection. When they come up the mountain for a stay, they will come on the air for a brief “howdy-do” to let me know they’ll be around. We are a self-help, there when you need me group…without the secret handshake and oath taking…we just know without saying one/all will come when the other needs help…and all have proven in the past they are willing and worthy of trust.

  60. Each location will have it’s advantages and weaknesses. I have thought it through. Where would be a good spot? Funnel any traffic to here? Then what? Deal with any results?

    I know, lots of questions. Most folks have little concept of ‘results.’ These things will NOT be easy. It’s easy to think about a sweaty stinking fat guy with a weeks growth of beard. Not so easy when it’s a teenage boy. Oh, there will be plenty of consequences for each action taken. The rambo types concern me greatly. Most are clueless as to what may be coming.

    A memorable ems call: A drug deal gone bad. A gang banger with a gunshot wound to the chest. Scared and crying. Gasping for breath and bleeding. “Am I gonna die?” Probably. “oh sh3t man.” That 20-something kid was like a 5 year old. Abject fear in his eyes. Yes, he did die. Are ya ready for all of that? Then imagine if it’s a loved one.

    None of this will be like a movie. The rambos of the world think it’s a game. It’s not a game. I don’t want this. I will, however, deal with things as they come. All we can do is try our best to protect the one’s we love.

  61. Unless it is a ‘real’ pandemic which is whacking humans out en masse quickly. That will be a different type of fear. Of course not all will die as in the plagues.

  62. Your neighbors are like Icebergs – 90% of it can’t be seen.
    Nobody really knows their neighbors !

  63. Had to sit back and noodle a bit on all the comments while doing chores. Different scenarios for all for sure – city vs. urban vs. rural vs. RURAL. All have their own benefits/drawbacks. One never knows the precise moment when the balloon goes up, but time of year will be a factor for sure. Spring, summer, fall will be harder in general to defend against due to mobility of the horde. Winter, the horde will be slower, easier to spot with travel much more difficult. I’m more concerned about the 12 man team/lone wolf in winter as movement is easier, quieter, but mother nature can be a B***h as well. Hard to hide wood smoke and running of diesel tractor when tending to 160 head of hungry mouths. Need to think that one through and what we (and all the farming/ranching neighbors are gonna do for feed, animals etc). One would think “snow barrier/barricade”, but first it has to snow and stay there….and one has to be a reliable good neighbor if needed around these parts. Spring/summer/fall will be the challenge, good and bad with the long desolate gravel roads – can easily see 2 miles in any direction from our place and know when someone’s coming by vehicle. Foot? Much harder. Guess that’s why we have the dogs roaming about, hides setup and a few FLIR laying about. If it comes down to a “golden horde” we’ll take out the local rural bridges, culverts and stack bales in the road/ditches to divert the flow, but again, still have to be available to help neighbors, thus choices on paths/trails. As Plains has said many a time “comms” are going to be important. Ken J. has stressed the food and others water. Dennis/Cali have stressed firearms. Certainly hope it never comes to this for my family, neighbors and the members of MSB.

    1. SDman……..your thoughts mirror mine, 1. time of the year, 2. type of situation, and my other one 3. My location ( home, away, in state out of state, etc) 4. Weather conditions definitely…… so noodling most definitely helps to open the mindset to the possibilities. I decided to put some of my current constraints to the test, a while back on a fair weather 85 degree day in the high plains desert I strapped on a 10 pound pack which most of that was a 1 gallon water bladder, walked at a normal pace to see how far I could go……after a few quick water stops and at about mile 8 I started to cramp up after resting for a while I was finished at mile 10. My own evaluation is that any horde or individual is not going to be able traverse long distances in short periods of time unless they have some type of conveyance. Obstacles are going to be a great way to slow them down and keep them off balance. I agree 100% with Joe Friday the first and probably greatest threat is going to be the local yahoos.

  64. Part 1 – JWR credits his dad with coming up with the term “Golden Horde.” I can’t find the exact source but I recall his suggestion was to reside no closer than 150 miles from any large city if possible. The thought was that by the time people began to flee the cities, they would be lucky to be able to cover that distance being in poor shape. When I drew out on a map where this was in my target area, I was sad because it was obviously not the fun lakefront 2nd home I was envisioning when I started the quest many years ago. But I am here permanently now meeting that criteria and love not having what I thought I wanted so long ago.

    I live on a 3 mile dead end road in a valley with only one access point surrounded by national and paper mill forest and very large bodies of water. Our road dead ends along a wooded country road with bridges that could be dropped, but more likely trees to be dropped to make it impassible by vehicles along the many miles before the country road intersects with any sizeable road or highway. Almost no roads or trails into the forest in the area. It is not recommended to go out on the lake without GPS or a guide because floating bogs, meandering bays, inability to see the shoreline and so on, can easily get one lost. The 15,000 acre lake shoreline at the other end of the road has a small utilitarian boat ramp out of site from the main body of water and from the high end lakefront property across the lake along the highway but not visible from here. The river along the valley is not boatable, tumbled rock/boulder uneven bottom, very cold water with minimal places you can readily get into the water because of the trees. Most of the year sufficient water flow that getting swept off your feet is probable without proper gear or practice.

    1. MamaLark, Was looking into this subject a few weeks ago. Original post was here: survivalblog.com/2005/08/07/the-golden-horde/

  65. Part 2 – As far as misdirection, I have wondered about hanging some mocked up hoo-doo looking “talismans.” I may even work on seeing if I can turn a fake skeleton into something looking real from the ground. Maybe keep the shredded clothing pockets stuffed with rotting food to keep a population of maggots crawling on the “body.”

    I have wondered about spray painting skull and crossbones on homes along with having professionally printing Condemned or Quarantine signs to post. Also wondered about wrecked and “ransacked” vehicles at the accessible end of the valley maybe with a spray of bullet holes and signs of “blood?”

    Risks include one popular resort/restaurant nearby popular with deer hunters including those from out of town. But my understanding from friends who have hunted this area from out of state all their lives, most of those who do so here are longtime property owners or with longtime relationships with those property owners where they do hunt. Not random city slicker types.

    We are new here and just starting to get acquainted with the locals slowly. We hear our immediate neighbors engaging in ballistic training on their property. We travel to a friend’s property several miles away to do so.

    There is a local town of 200 with a small grocery/hardware store and a gas station but no doctor or pharmacy, no gun or ammo dealer, and no liquor store. These are 3 potential targets of the ne’er do well rather than desperate wanderers. The seller of our property was a Marine and there was a posted list of neighborhood watch groups left on the fridge. Haven’t taken the chance yet to reach out. We’re taking making all those types of contacts slow for now.

    1. MamaLark…….I have a 265 gal ibc tote positioned at the back of the shop ( for drinking water) as a idea for miss direction I attacked a metal sign “Danger pesticide storage” also had two old pump garden sprayers that were broken and fastened them to the side, and the final touch was a old metal 12” pan with a cup of old oil and some used bits of tar, which I placed underneath the spigot oh my it is priceless and truly looks like a potential EPA hazard.

      1. Good idea. My thoughts on mislabeling with signs come from a time when we put a Beware of Dog sign up in our front window when we went on vacation for any length of time. Of course the one break in was a known party from the neighborhood.

  66. I’ve considered the problem of dispersing an advancing large golden horde crowd and I made a LRAD system as describe on Youtube Tech Ingredient’s channel. It consists of four 2000 watt driver horns driven by a 10000 watt amplifier emitting a rising frequency chirp that heterodynes the peak pressure nodes throughout the area of operation. It operates off of one car battery.
    If nothing else, I can play “Flight of the Valkyrie” in a psyops effort to rob them of their will to fight. /s

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