What’s your most unique preparedness item?
Posted by TerribleConference54@reddit | preppers | View on Reddit | 307 comments
I’ll start. I’ve kept a universal 5P8500 CAT key on my key ring for over 20 years. In a true SHTF scenario it could be handy to have access to Caterpillar heavy equipment under those circumstances in an emergency. It fits the ignition of most CAT equipment from the ‘70s to present. Skid steers, excavators, bulldozers, graders etc.
What’s your most unique preparedness item?
Ok_Oil_2633@reddit
Pain killers, boxes of steroid cream and ointment. Son died of cancer and Hospice doesn’t collect drugs when a patient dies. Pain killers and steroids could make a huge difference if people are injured… or need a painless death.
V-8 juice in cans, protein drinks, and Gatorade. Don’t need refrigerated and have long shelf life.
AscendingAmpersand@reddit
I'm sorry about your son.
Ok_Oil_2633@reddit
Thank You.
It’s been 3 years and never gets easier 💔 Best advice I can give to young men, is to squeeze your nuts and check for lumps and don’t ignore it. Being too proud can end your life far too young.
MOF1fan@reddit
Hmm Im gonna have to look up shelf life of V8.
Ok_Oil_2633@reddit
I started drinking it a couple months ago daily because I’m pescatarian and I am not crazy about vegetables. So I read the can and thought that was probably best way to get a lot of vitamins and minerals as well as fluids. Don’t have to cook it. Bonus.
Such-Concern-6913@reddit
Copper IUD Good for 10+ years 99.99% effective Quiet
that-1-chick-u-know@reddit
I've had 2 in my lifetime, the first taken out to have my son and the 2nd taken out during my hysterectomy. Zero regrets. (Note - experiences vary. Mine is by no means universal.)
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
That’s something that’s been on my mind. My wife has had C-section’s with all of the children. A pregnancy without access to a hospital would most likely be a death sentence for her.
Historical_Course587@reddit
IMHO, if you're done having kids then a vasectomy/tubal are the best options even if they feel more invasive up front.
that-1-chick-u-know@reddit
A vasectomy is an in-office procedure. A tubal is surgery. Go for the vasectomy.
V2BM@reddit
A vasectomy takes 15 minutes.
nevercleverer@reddit
Vasectomy. It's cheap, can almost always be reversed (expensive), and is 100% effective I'd you take the post-snip procedures seriously.
Seriously, it's a game changer. Fellas, don't make the ladies be the only ones making the effort.
p0mjDwfWF@reddit
Horror story time!
I am resistant to many medications and drugs. I don’t know why, really, but it’s a pain in the ass at the dentist or when getting surgery.
I had my consultation for a vasectomy, and got the script for a Valium, filled it, and took it that morning. I also took my regular mediation, Adderall, because they didn’t tell me not to. Big mistake, apparently.
I felt everything they did, and didn’t listen when I said so. “That’s impossible, you’re just having anxiety.” Every poke, pinch, cut, stitch, pull… I was hyper aware of it. I was crying, but the doc finished it.
I still have nightmares about it, 5 years later. I
dreadedowl@reddit
Vasectomy cannot just be reversed. It's not 100% effective. It's very effective, but not 100%...its like 1% chance it's not... years later. It also cannot be reversed in 1 out of 10 to 4 out of ten times...
I've had one. Follow up questions do not need to be answered
AlemarTheKobold@reddit
My dad had to have two, and his gf fucked it up so hes got an infection
This-Satisfaction-71@reddit
How did his girlfriend fuck up his vasectomy? He couldn't do his own post-op hygiene?
AlemarTheKobold@reddit
She smacked him in the nuts repeatedly to wake him up
Scuba-Steve101@reddit
Do you have any idea of the physical toll 3 vasectomies can have on a man?! SNIP SNAP SNIP SNAP
ommnian@reddit
My husband got a vasectomy 15-16+ years ago and it's been phenomenal.
asseatingvolcano@reddit
I wish i could get the IUD. As soon as they used the tenaculum (the forceps with the sharp tips) it was over for me. I tried 3x, and i couldn’t take it. Therefore, I only could take the implant which is only 3 years
Present_Figure_4786@reddit
From what I understand this is a brutal procedure. My daughter found one that sedates ( at a planned parenthood).
OperationFucksToGive@reddit
Don't wish for an IUD. Uterus perforation is incredibly painful and takes legit surgery to remove.
OperationFucksToGive@reddit
Just wait until the IUD perforates your uterus and you can't have the surgery with anesthesia to remove it... that'll be so much fun.
BookLuvr7@reddit
Good thinking.
Distinguishedflyer@reddit
shmart!
johndoe3471111@reddit
Lock pick kit. It takes some practice to be proficient, but that skill set has come in handy. In an emergency opening things quietly will be helpful I think.
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
I agree. I’ve played with lock picking over the years but never got past the level universal electrical breaker locks by master lock and some filing cabinet locks. I need to practice more.
Mysfunction@reddit
I never got past the clear practice lock that came with my kit before losing interest and now that I think of it, it’s kind of embarrassing. Maybe I should pull the kit out and give it another whirl.
JP3522@reddit
The clear practice locks are pieces of shit that don't set pins right and have way too much resistance. Go to your local hardware store and pick some locks in the isle. They usually won't mind especially if it is a big store.
OptimisticDoomCat@reddit
Japanese medicine, Chinese medicine. One is prescription level stuff OTC and insanely effective. The other is gentler, holistic, preventative and won’t kill your liver long term.
DeFiClark@reddit
Nails.
In all seriousness I almost never see these in lists, and they make a difference between a crap shelter or tons of work and having a solid shelter in minutes. One of the most useful things that’s easy to carry and impossible to improvise in the field.
People moving West used to burn their cabins and recover the nails.
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
Great point! I can see why my grandpa, who was raised during the depression, kept all the old rusty nails in a coffee can, straightened and reused them.
AnuNnaki2010@reddit
That's funny because I inherited everything in my grandpa's workshop, also depression era, and he didn't get rid of anything. Paint cans full of nails, screws, random knick knacks. I will never have to buy a single nail in my life time. As far as those knick knacks go, every so often I have a project and some random thing in all those paint cans is perfect for what i need.
Pm4000@reddit
Grandpa would be proud
WhyWontThisWork@reddit
Good luck finding it
TrilliumHill@reddit
I was just thinking about this yesterday morning, debating between nails and screws.
Kind of goes with my most unique prep, portable sawmill and solar kiln.
DeFiClark@reddit
Screws require packing a screwdriver and a drill — with different sizes for different screws— and are typically much slower to use without power tools than nails
Cut nails can be hammered in with a rock in a pinch. Poll back tomahawk packs easy though.
TrilliumHill@reddit
If you're talking about a small handful in a bag, that makes sense. I'm more setting up like a homestead, so bug in, or looking for other things that would be good barter material that I regularly use.
I was also thinking about bulk discounts. Right now I can buy 1 lb of screws for $11, or 50 lbs for $175, or about $3.50 a lb.
DeFiClark@reddit
Setting up a homestead without power tools, I’d use nails.
ommnian@reddit
We've bought a couple buckets of screws. They're what we use to build just about everything.
sho666@reddit
this guy R/DayZ 's
Locksmithbloke@reddit
And a nailgun, perhaps?
Prepped-n-Ready@reddit
Why not just buy a nail maker?
distractedbyshinyobj@reddit
https://a.co/d/086f71sO - a set of master keys CAT Caterpillar Case John Deere JCB Hyster JLG Komatsu Kubota Yanmar New Holland Takeuchi Volvo
Many-Health-1673@reddit
This is the reason I keep the electronic security codes locked on the heavy equipment at the farm.
I guess my most unique preparedness item is food resources. We raise cattle and crops, so food shouldnt be much of an issue. The issue would be securing the food. 450 acres of hard red winter wheat or soybeans would be hard to keep secure at harvest time. 80 head of cattle in the field would be hard to keep a secret when people are hungry.
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
That’s when community becomes necessary, it’s hard for one guy to hold down the fort.
As far as the heavy equipment is concerned I totally get your point of view. There’s a ton of state, county, and forest service equipment out there. As I see it, I’ve paid my taxes for decades and if the need ever arises that I need to borrow it I wouldn’t think it to be unethical.
Many-Health-1673@reddit
Yes, I will need an active security MAG to help for certain.
On our newer diesel equipment I would pull the ECM fuses, but on our older mechanical diesel equipment I would need to go further and install kill switches or a fuel cutoff switch that is hidden. Maybe install a mechanical valve between the tank and the injector pump. Not fun to bleed the lines and injectors if someone ran it out of fuel trying to steal it, but better than losing the equipment.
I would not blame you one bit for borrowing some government equipment in that situation.
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
I’ve got an old ‘98 12 valve Dodge that I’ve eliminated the fuel shutoff solenoid in favor of a manual pull/push fuel shutoff. I don’t even lock the truck anymore because hardly anyone can figure out how to start it lol.
DeafHeretic@reddit
Had that on the to do list for my ’97 for a while. Same for my ’98 Hilux (JDM import).
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
I also put a one wire alternator on my ‘98 and it’s a manual transmission. It will roll start now, the goal was to make an EMP proof truck and I think I’m there now.
DeafHeretic@reddit
Yup - my ’97 has airbags & ABS, so those might be issues (my ABS light is constantly on). From what I understand, the stock alternator is connected to electronics in the dash, but besides being a charging circuit, I don’t think there is anything in the dash that electronics that will kill the engine if fried - so not too worried about that.
I have tested that the truck will roll start, so not worried about that - the fuel shutoff cable is the first thing I will do once I finish with the Hilux.
Some people don’t realize that for quite a while now, the automatic transmissions have electronics in them - so those could theoretically get fried (beside not being able to roll start anyway).
IIRC, my ’97 has a mechanical lift pump while my Hilux does not (electric on the tank). I am thinking about an aux tank installed on the flatbed between the habitat and the cab - so maybe some gravity feed action there. Maybe the same for the Hilux.
I am not too worried about EMP, just want vehicles that are as simple as possible and if they do break, I don’t need a computer with special diagnosis s/w and special parts to fix them.
Many-Health-1673@reddit
Mechanical and simple worked for decades.
Manufacturers making everything electronic has to do with making their vehicles harder to work on for the end user, not reliability, that is for certain.
DeafHeretic@reddit
Partially, yes.
A significant part of the electronics has to do with emissions and gov efficiency mandates.
For off-road equipment (tractors, AG/industrial equipment, etc.), it was mostly emissions (I am not aware of gov efficiency mandates for that equipment).
Mostly that hit the diesel powered equipment harder about 2003-2004 (which is why my neighbor had multiple bidders, including myself, for his pre-emissions Kubota - the bidders wanted a tractor that they didn’t have to deal with DEF & regen cycles, not to mention the electronics crap that went with it).
Many-Health-1673@reddit
I found it a total con game that after the manufacturers met the Tier 4 requirements wirh the myriad of problems those requirements created, the EPA comes out with Tier 5 and what would have most likely been an almost certain death for diesel engines.
Every diesel we have on our farm is pre Tier 1. We are running John Deere 4440, 4630, 4550 tractors, with some older International utility tractors and a Kubota M9000 tractor. The reliability of the engines just aren't as good past Tier 2.
On the electronics components I was referring to passenger vehicles and all of the sensors and unnecessary bells and whistles they put on them.
DeafHeretic@reddit
IMO - besides the electronics, there is a serious issue with design; the components and systems are not modular and independent - they are too complex, too tightly coupled and not robust. The user winds up with a system where if a sensor goes bad an unrelated component stops working.
Then there are the emissions laws/rules; e.g., the gov requires a vehicle to go into limp mode if the DEF runs low.
Many-Health-1673@reddit
If things last too long, you won't have to buy a new vehicle, and if it is too easy to work on, the stealership won't make money servicing it. Planned obsolescence and forced compliance.
Many-Health-1673@reddit
That is a good idea!
iambecomesoil@reddit
I'd stick with kill switches so it just won't turn over.
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
Mine won’t even try to start with the fuel shutoff in the wrong position. It doesn’t allow the p7100 or injectors to loose prime either.
Many-Health-1673@reddit
I like it
Many-Health-1673@reddit
Yeah, that would be better. Or pull the batteries when you aren't using it.
AssumeImStupid@reddit
Bulk pads. "But stupid, you're a boy" yes but when the supply chains break down and money is not very useful can you imagine the desperation of the women on their periods in that post collapse world? These are valuable trade items, lightweight and always in demand at least once a month. Plus, if someone I know needs one they know that I always keep some in my car.
Haunting-Cause-972@reddit
They aren’t as valuable as you think. There’s a reason it’s called “being on the rag”. Like, anything mildly absorbant would do in a pinch.
bleenken@reddit
I have these stocked as well. But to give away, not as a trade item. If some dude said he’d trade me pads for something of mine, I’d stuff a sock in my pants and tell him to get lost.
WellHelloPhriend@reddit
Got this set through Amazon Vine last year. Pretty much every equipment manufacturers key.
StarlightLifter@reddit
Got a key to the Rockwell TurboElectric Encabulator though?
AceSuperhero@reddit
They'll never run out of inverse reactive current for use in unilateral phase detractors, and their cardinal grammeters will always be synchronized.
English999@reddit
Shout out to r/vxjunkies for effectively eliminating side fumbling.
6059EX@reddit
Gee, I love that kinda talk! 😜
Telemere125@reddit
Listen Doc, all I know is you said to get it up to 88 mph when the lightning hits it, ok?
Distinguishedflyer@reddit
only if the primary synchroton is directionally oriented towards magnetic phase dipoles.
IrishGoodbye4@reddit
I prefer the retro encabulators approach to power generation as it uses the modial interaction of magneto-reluctance and capacitive diractence
Not-a-Cranky-Panda@reddit
If it did not come with one add a CH751 key the worlds most common key just google it to see what it fits.
murphybt@reddit
I second this. From personal experience that key fits alarm boxes and most irrigation controllers.
N-Pop@reddit
have you tried any of them?
WellHelloPhriend@reddit
The JD, Volvo, Kubota and Cat all have worked so far. Only ones I've tried so far.
N-Pop@reddit
def wanna be on your team when the big one drops
altiuscitiusfortius@reddit
Have you testes them? I'm curious if they work are are just counterfeit crap
WellHelloPhriend@reddit
The JD, Volvo, Kubota and Cat all have worked so far. Only ones I've tried so far.
naturelover47@reddit
link?
WellHelloPhriend@reddit
https://a.co/d/02aTihP9
x_lincoln_x@reddit
How many keys?
WellHelloPhriend@reddit
https://a.co/d/0bIs8LGV
MidSinglesInYourArea@reddit
Have you actually tried any of them? Given that they spelled "construction" wrong I'm having some doubts about the quality of the keys.
WellHelloPhriend@reddit
The JD, Volvo, Cat, and Kubotas have all worked so far.
x_lincoln_x@reddit
Thank you!
andscowal@reddit
This is quite interesting to me. Would you mind explaining the use case to someone unaware?
iH8MotherTeresa@reddit
Operating heavy equipment. That's the extent of it. What you do with the equipment will vary. Many time, you'll find a key ring like this in the hands of an operator. Its common to need to get in and out of different types and makes of equipment. The keys are universal so having your own is very convenient.
Basically anyone can get these keys and hop in heavy equipment. I would not recommend it. How did I do with my answer? I like being a stufff-knower and sharing so I'm happy to chat 😁
VideoLeoj@reddit
What makes you not recommend driving heavy equipment? I mean… other than legal ramifications, which may not be the concern during extenuating circumstances.
XZEKKX@reddit
There's more that goes into it than turning a key. It takes time to learn how to drive any equipment and it's real easy to break shit when you're unsupervised. Forest thing to know of your going to have to turn the battery on before turning the key. And I've never seen a battery switch in the cab.
VideoLeoj@reddit
Exactly the kind of answer I was looking for!
To be clear… I had an idea it was gonna be something like this. But, I wanted to make sure for me, and to expose the concepts to someone else who might be eyeing one of those keychains with adventurous eyes. 😉
JRHLowdown3@reddit
This.
Some heavy equipment drives like a car- our backhoe for example and tractor. Some of this does not- bulldozer, excavator, etc.
When I have needed two pieces of equipment in use simultaneously, I've had my wife drive the backhoe and I've run the other piece, due to it's similarity to a car.
If you were to "appropriate" a piece of heavy equipment in the PAW and not used to driving said equipment, I would seek out a backhoe if you could. It's also going to be able to do 90% of what you need done.
ty-new@reddit
This can be so true! Several years back, I purchased a big older Case track loader from the military. I’ve been around construction all my life… but never operated heavy equipment. The first time I went over a small embankment, I hit the windshield - hard!
JRHLowdown3@reddit
There is definitely a learning curve on certain equipment! +1
iH8MotherTeresa@reddit
> Basically anyone can get these keys and hop in heavy equipment
That's the part I don't recommend, on account of the law stuff. Seems to me you nailed what I was getting at. Operating is fun and cool. Normies don't belong in heavy equipment, normally, though.
unrelated side note - saw a dude driving a backhoe down a main stroad the other day. There was no escort or anything that should come along with equipment on the road. No one batted an eye. So it would appear one might could commandeer one with enough confidence and gall.
That-Attention2037@reddit
If you’ve never operated heavy equipment there’s a good chance you’re going to fk up the machine, hurt yourself or someone else. If you don’t know what you’re looking at, the cab of some those machines loaded with controls is overwhelming. Also; if shit is going down in a serious way you are going to attract all sorts of attention running heavy equipment down the road. You better have a lookout squad rolling with you lol
andscowal@reddit
This makes perfect sense to me, thanks for sharing!!
hoardac@reddit
Our mechanic at work had a few different sets of keys, we had all sorts of different brands of shit he worked on.
androgenoide@reddit
Most techs have specialized key rings. Having spent some years doing field work on radio equipment I have several rings of radio keys and another ring of keys to fire roads and utilities.
300_BlackoutDrunk@reddit
The problem is, most of them have combination lockouts that you have to punch in.
Locksmithbloke@reddit
Yes, because people keep buying the common keys off the Internet...
Dapper_dreams87@reddit
Is there an option like this for farm equipment? I have a lot more of that around me
DeFiClark@reddit
Mostly same keys
Lolimnewlmao@reddit
Linky link 😅
stupid_account_69@reddit
Damn, how do I get my hands on this?
WellHelloPhriend@reddit
https://a.co/d/0bIs8LGV
stupid_account_69@reddit
Thank
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
That’s next level 👏
WellHelloPhriend@reddit
Ya, don't know if I would have spent the money on it if the set wasn't almost free. Just saw the actual price. Might not be worth it unless heavy equipment "borrowing" is a major part of your prep.
Outspoken_Idiot@reddit
Next level prepping unlocked.
Comfortable-Story-53@reddit
Handcuff key.
Distinguishedflyer@reddit
I bought a case of condoms I'll be trading for everything. Because I'm old enough to not care.
KarmaCommando_@reddit
You're like the third or fourth commenter in here that's mentioned prophylactics.
Not saying it isn't a valid thing to have, but I certainly not a place my mind goes when I consider prepping for disaster lol
Distinguishedflyer@reddit
how are you gonna keep your muzzle dry?
KarmaCommando_@reddit
Assuming you mean my firearm, the answer is tape.
If you're referring to my other gun, circumstances are such that it needs no protection and I don't think the proverbial SHTF situation will change that lol
Distinguishedflyer@reddit
i hate arguing on the Internet… Do whatever you want
Complex_Material_702@reddit
and I now too have a 5p8500 key on the way. Thank you for that handy tip!
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
You’re welcome. We’re better off to have it and not need it than need it and not have it 👍
Complex_Material_702@reddit
I actually found a 20 pack of the most common keys for $50 and got that. Thanks man!
CozyUrbanite@reddit
Could you link?
I_VAPE_CAT_PISS@reddit
P-38 can opener on my keychain. Had it since my first field exercise. Weighs nothing, works on anything, and I've never found a situation where it let me down. Also keeps a small ferro rod on the same ring. Between those two things I can eat and make fire with what fits in my pocket.
SubstanceOk6090@reddit
I have a book called "When there is no doctor". It has guidance on how to prevent and treat common illnesses when medical care is unavailable.
Spiley_spile@reddit
Currently reading this book in Spanish (Donde no hay doctor). I bought the "Book for Midwives" from them as well.
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
I’ve seen this one before but forgot. It’s on the list now :)
Spiley_spile@reddit
Probably the seizure first aid guide I wrote for my friends. Fried grasshopper, anyone?
Among other things, extremely low blood sugar can cause my seizures. And it's a warning sign that the next level down includes going into a coma. And just around the corner from coma is death.
So I have instructions for which bugs people can collect for me and how to cook them. Big leaf maple tapping instructions for certain times of year. (Still working on that section.) And to gather the licorice ferns that grow on them. Common plants, like dandelions and cats ear are on the list as well.
I do wilderness backpacking. So, losing my food is a more immediate life threat to me than most others. One time, the bear canister with our food slipped out of the Y strap on my pack and tumbled over the side of steep ravine, downs towards a rapid river. But we lucked out! The canister got caught on a ledge. We were able to climb down to retrieve it. Very close call though.
Another item might be the pulk sled I built. Sometimes we get snow storms that trap motorists on the Interstate highway for 12-24 hours in freezing weather. I already owned snowshoes. So I built a pulk sled and harness to ferry supplies in or patients out, as needed.
EastTyne1191@reddit
A microscope. I'm a science teacher and have a collection of science equipment, and I've used my microscope more than once to diagnose infections. Also it's pretty cool.
I've been thinking about learning how to make penicillin, but I'm hesitant due to the potential issues that creates.
aboothemonkey@reddit
Blue cheese is full of penicillin, just get some and keep feeding it milk.
JonathanLindqvist@reddit
I'm also interested in learning to make penicillin, but what are the potential issues you mentioned?
WishIWasThatClever@reddit
After being exposed to penicillin, you can develop a life threatening allergy to it without warning.
EastTyne1191@reddit
Making sure you've isolated the correct organism, culturing it properly, storing the penicillin, administering it appropriately, potential allergic reactions, contamination, etc
And then of course there's the possibility that one would try to give penicillin for what is actually a viral infection, and that doesn't work. Lots of potential problems there. Preventing illness is the superior plan, most likely, unless you're well-versed in microbiology, epidemiology, and pharmacology, to name a few.
JonathanLindqvist@reddit
Okay, that makes sense. Is it possible to make penicillin in an off-grid postapoc lab though? If someone shows symptoms of the plague then I guess I'd still like to take my chances.
tube_radio@reddit
Is there a good place for a QRD on how to use a microscope for such practical things? When to use it, and how to know what I'm looking at?
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
I can see a lot of useful ways to use a microscope. Like how well does my water filtration/purification system actually work?
MommysBabyLizzy@reddit
Handcuff key 👮
ShawnessyOG@reddit
I like the small 3d printed ones you can keep in a ball cap lip.
MalaEnNova@reddit
My husband has a cat key too! He's had it since 2015ish. Got it at a previous employer who forgot to take it back. I guess my most unique item is an unholy amount of alcohol. I don't even drink. My grandma loved to drink and when she passed on I got her entire liquor cabinet. The cabinet was around 20 feet long and about 4 feet tall. Had all the bar stuff in it too.
poppyseed84@reddit
You can make herbal / medicinal tinctures with all that booze! Extracts too.
olycreates@reddit
I have a cat key from the late 90s, along with Hitachi and komatsu keys.
Due_Middle_2241@reddit
Solar vibrator. Let’s make the apocalypse worth sticking around for. lol
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
We wouldn’t want anyone going “hysterical” now would we? ;)
Due_Middle_2241@reddit
Yes. True. But I also have a hand crank one too.
No-Assumption8220@reddit
I always keep a 1/8" hardened steel icepick in my boot (in a kydex sheath). I've found it extremely useful for a variety of reasons. I suppose it's not a 'prepper' item in the traditional sense, but as a thing I'm prepared with, it's rather handy.
Fn_Spaghetti_Monster@reddit
https://www.albanesecandy.com/12-flavor-gummi-bears-5-lb-bulk-package/
Who doesn't like a little candy when things are look glum?
ProbablyAPotat0@reddit
And the sugar free ones are great if you ingested poison and want your insides to pressure wash themselves within minutes
Belzebubble@reddit
Seriously- beer brewing equipment and a lot of stored ingredients. If society collapses, beer will most likely be in demand and I can trade for more useful things.
MaizePleasant4152@reddit
On that note, my weed stash and seed collection shall at least be valuable to me. Rechargable power tools are cool but I have a collection of old hand driven tools.
bl0odredsandman@reddit
If society collapses, drunk is one of the last things I'd wanna be. Drunk people will be easy targets for assholes.
Belzebubble@reddit
Very true. But a beer in the evening will not make you drunk. Plenty will.
KarmaCommando_@reddit
If you can make beer, you can also make bread!
Disastrous-Owl-3866@reddit
This is one of my key skills. Mind you, the hops don’t store well without electricity to run a fridge and freezer. That being said, they would probably still bitter a beer.
I try and a keep a stockpile of beers that age well as well as wines in the basement.
Belzebubble@reddit
Vacuum packing is your friend. And if possible store in a cold space. A metal crate buried 6 feet under the lawn maybe?
Locksmithbloke@reddit
Dry them. Was done for hundreds if not thousands of years.
Disastrous-Owl-3866@reddit
All my hops are dry pellets. The oils and alpha acids don’t keep forever though, not without refrigeration. You could still make beer with them after a couple years but the hops would not be as potent. You could also grow hops yourself.
hoardac@reddit
We can make cider does that count?
Belzebubble@reddit
Of course!
MIRV888@reddit
I got a still. I figure the hard stuff would be more useful.
Belzebubble@reddit
Yeah, that can be used for cleaning wounds and as a central analgesic as well.
Tendiesdropper@reddit
Yea i learned how to make wine and mead during Covid, still have all the equipment i would ever need to make it plus a lot of books and materials
SithLordRising@reddit
I would second that with tobacco.
7o7A1@reddit
yes! add a pot still and you can make everything. beer, wine, brandy, whisky, rum..
armacitis@reddit
Modular triclamp still.
Utter_cockwomble@reddit
I can grow it, I can ferment it, and I can distill it. I'm not a fighter but I'm a solid B Team member.
VideoLeoj@reddit
I guarantee we could/would find a valuable defensive position for you, at the least. And hope it never has to be used outside of training!!
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
Nah you’re definitely on the team. Just being able to take a load off at the end of a hard stressful day with a couple pints of beer is invaluable.
Guardian-Ares@reddit
Personally, I'd make mead. I tried mead far too late in my drinking career (retired now).
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
Can you brew a Hefeweizen? We should be friends ;)
yeshuascoming@reddit
My ram pumps or solar pumps
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
I’ve researched ram pumps before. Amazing simple tech. I don’t think we value not having to carry water as much as we should.
yeshuascoming@reddit
We certainly don’t. Water is priority number 1 in my book. Drinking and bathing is one thing with regard to labor intensity and time consumption but if you consider irrigation you’d pretty much be hauling water all day (if you have a family). In the meantime who’s going to do all of the other necessary chores or pull security? I started with a couple solar Future Pump SE1’s that fill 6 IBC containers that are on a hill and then have plumbing coming out of them that leads to drip tape. A pump, plumbing and an IBC container is well under $1000. But they only pump in direct sunlight so a friend built a couple RAM pumps for me.
https://shop.futurepump.com/products/se1-solar-pump
BewareNZ@reddit
Ram pump is an excellent idea
Ok_Huckleberry_45@reddit
Probably a large steel door purchased off of Facebook marketplace - never know what you’ll need it for.
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
Like a safe door? I’m fabricating a security door for my concrete “cellar” in the near future.
Ok_Huckleberry_45@reddit
A 32 x 80 size door that can be used to fortify any room - it’s something like this
Not-a-Cranky-Panda@reddit
CH751 key the worlds most common key
Just google it.
Soff10@reddit
I have a key that resets all traffic lights.
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
Are you talking about a certain IR light that flashes at a certain frequency? The one that makes the red ones… green ones?
Soff10@reddit
No. Not an opticon. It’s a brass key that is inserted into the management box.
Practical-Library658@reddit
I got my tubes removed. I’m very happy I did so.
darthrawr3@reddit
An upvote to cancel out a downer, & yeeterus FTW! Getting 'spayed' was the best prep I've ever done. Wish I could have done it much sooner, I'd have had 5x the cost of the surgery (at least) to spend on other prep stuff
Practical-Library658@reddit
Thank you so much! I’m incredibly happy with my decision. I’m still relatively new to the prep community, but so far it has been incredibly welcoming and kind! I love it!
Beauregard42@reddit
An old tube radio.
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
Can it transmit as well as receive by chance?
Beauregard42@reddit
It is a transmitter. 40-60 watts on HF. I have two crystals for it, collecting more. I’m building my own receiver to pair with it. It’s a Knight kit T60.
Kradget@reddit
I don't know about "unique," but I got a basic knot "how to" activity and try to practice with it when I'm not doing anything else. I'm working on my timber hitch.
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
Extremely useful skill! I need to practice more.
Kradget@reddit
I'll say that the practice "rope" that came with mine is very cheap, stiff knock-off "550 cord" and I'd really like to have it be about 6 inches longer. I run out of line to do some of the more complex knots if I use it, so it may be worth buying your own if you get into it and find you're running into the same issue.
HOWEVER, it's mostly okay and it's very convenient to have it all in a compact package. I keep the card looped on the line so everything is together.
Mysfunction@reddit
Do you have a link to the product you got? I know I can just cut a length of rope and get instructions online, but I’m more likely to use a compact kit and think to bring it with me when I might be bored and want to keep my hands busy.
Kradget@reddit
I have this, which includes a pack of demo cards.
https://www.knotandrope.com/products/knot-tying-kit
Inevitable_Goose_204@reddit
What would say is an ideal practice length?
dreadedowl@reddit
I like about 20ft. I find it's a good length to use on my romantic partner. But seriously, I have a 10' rope I use for practice. I've sailed for 20+ years. Any longer and it's too hard to try smaller knots. Any shorter and you miss out on good monkey knots and turks knot practice. And really if Im trying to do a good turks on an oar or something I'd like 20'
Kradget@reddit
I don't know about ideal. Mine are probably around 24 inches, and it might be nice to have 30, but I'm sure if I had it, I'd be wondering if I could cut it down a little to make it more compact. You know how it goes. 🤷♂️
bizconnectadventure@reddit
That CAT key is a legendary pull. Definitely one of those things that weighs nothing but could move mountains if you actually needed it.
Mine is probably Thyrosafe.
Everyone carries the standard stuff like tourniquets or life straws, but almost nobody preps for the invisible stuff. If a reactor fails or things go nuclear, radioactive iodine is the first thing that’s going to wreck your health. Having potassium iodide tablets is such a niche move, but if you actually need them and don’t have them, you're basically screwed. It just sits in the bottom of my kit as a "hope I never touch this" insurance policy for my thyroid.
tracker5173@reddit
Wow I have a coffee can full of keys 🔐🔐🔐
Short-Read4830@reddit
Physical fitness
MrMaker1123@reddit
Arborist gear and training
KarmaCommando_@reddit
I got that too. Rope ascender devices, ropes, a harness, and a grappling hook (a real deal one) are all good things to have
AntiSonOfBitchamajig@reddit
Yeah... I tired getting into that, but after a job working a 97' maple over a house it took away most of my nerves.
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
So many things you can do if you’re good with a chainsaw. 5 gallons of gas and enough bar oil can go a LONG way!
MrMaker1123@reddit
There's a lot of food in big trees like mangos and oranges. People may grab the low hanging fruit but with the right gear you get up high in the tree to get more. Also good for hanging antennas, storing supplies out of reach, and making ziplines. This can help move supplies too
mikeegg1@reddit
I used to keep a P-38 on my keychain.
bl0odredsandman@reddit
I've had one on my keys for like 10 years. Only used it like once or twice, but it did it's job.
mikeegg1@reddit
They aren't the fasted tool, but when you need one... :)
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
A can of cold chili can help you go for miles :)
Christopher_Sheahan@reddit
Easy. My 3d printer and my PET filament recycler. Basically I can take anything made of plastic in the trash and recycle it into filament that I can use on my 3d printer. I have software to design any part that I may need to build so when shtf and some random item is needed that you can no longer go to the store and buy, I can make it out of 2 liter soda bottles I melted down and used to print. Powered of course by my hydro electric turbine in the creek lol
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
Brilliant! Are you pretty handy with CAD programs?
Christopher_Sheahan@reddit
Im still learning a lot but I'm on my way. Luckily there's what seems to be an endless supply of already made files for free online.
qbg@reddit
Scythe for mowing
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
That’s cool! Alfalfa, wheat, or just the yard?
qbg@reddit
Just the yard and cleaning up the garden for now. A scythe doesn't chop up the grass into lots of tiny bits like a trimmer does, making the end result better suited for mulching or feeding to animals. Harvesting grass also provides a source of matter for creating compost.
It would be interesting to try planting wheat at some point also though.
BeninIdaho@reddit
On the CAT key, you should also carry the battery disconnect key. It has been a long time, but all the CAT equipment I ran in the 80s needed both the ignition key and battery key.
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
That’s a good idea too. Those older machines will most likely be the only ones that would still run in a post EMP situation.
I_VAPE_CAT_PISS@reddit
A good hand crank grain mill. Most people stock rice and canned stuff but if you keep whole wheat berries they last basically forever and you can grind flour whenever you need it. Way more shelf stable than store bought flour and you get actual nutrition from it. Neighbors will think you're weird until they need bread.
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
Manual grain mills will be an absolute necessity. I went with a Country Living Grain Mill. It’s a lot of work even with the extended bar for the handle.
I wonder how long it will take for community grain mills to make a comeback in a supply chain collapse situation?
BewareNZ@reddit
Yes I was thinking of this the other day.
Mochalada@reddit
Moped my husband used before he got his drivers license. Might come out of retirement here soon with these gas prices
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
If it wasn’t for E-bikes the moped market would probably be exploding right now.
westsidefashionist@reddit
B12
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
I like it. Vitamins are cheap and can be vital on a limited diet.
radiowall@reddit
Dryer sheets
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
For insect repellent or what purpose?
tesla1026@reddit
Antique books. I have a bunch of early 1900s farm and household hints books and they’re super interesting and educational. If I ever need to know how to dig a latrine, build a door or furniture, catch wild yeast, slaughter a hog, or make lye from scratch I have step by step directions. It’s like ye old instructables and Wikipedia all rolled into a small shelf.
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
I remember my grandpa telling me about brining meat for long term storage. He told me they’d fill a whiskey barrel half full of water then add just enough salt so that an egg would float. Then they’d fill it up with meat layering as they go. Those old timers knew how to do it, most of the stuff we are concerned with preparedness wise now was just everyday life for them.
Unlikely_Ad_9861@reddit
Sailboat. For scenarios where getting away to a remote wilderness saltwater bay seems like a good idea. Fish. Crab. Seaweed. Solar. Can also visit different countries, if useful.
Ok-Scar7729@reddit
Honestly, this is one of the best preps you could possibly have. Especially if you take a trip once or twice a year so that you are already familiar with the routes and the lifestyle.
However, pirates are a serious issue through the Caribbean and basically the whole East Coast of Central and South America. That would probably get worse during a collapse.
clintonclements@reddit
Pirates of the Caribbean you say?
-jspace-@reddit
I love my solar watch. Maybe not unique, but I don't know anyone else who wears one.
I also hoard detergents. Laundry, dishes, skin...
cosecha0@reddit
what watch do you have and how long have you had it for?
-jspace-@reddit
It's an analog Citizen Ecodrive from 2014. It loses 3 minutes every day recently but I've scratched the glass and I'm not sure if that's a factor. (I wear it on my dominant hand so it takes a beating) I'm looking at a new one.. and coincidentally, they're having a 50th anniversary this year and the tech now charges by LED in addition to solar!
cosecha0@reddit
very cool! I Iike the idea of a solar watch
-jspace-@reddit
They are stylish too, I feel like a dozen years was worth the cost. It was a graduation gift to myself after an environmental conservation focus.
cosecha0@reddit
how fitting :)
Intelligent-Limit129@reddit
Hoarding skin is a good idea. If you get injured bad enough you can just replace your skin from storage and be good to go. /s
-jspace-@reddit
Hahaha I meant DETERGENT types..
x_Animal_Mother_X@reddit
I have a Garmin Solar Tactical watch that I love. Very simple and the battery lasts for 30 days at a time, unless you are out in the sun. If you were out in the sun it continuously charges itself. In 3 years I think I've charged it four times. The rest of it's all just the Sun🤘
Hefty-Squirrel-6800@reddit
This is true. I also carry one.
Perpetual_Ronin@reddit
I put a couple of these in my go-bags. Super handy!
saposguy@reddit
Years ago I was in a busy bathroom and one of the employees was trying to refill the paper towels, but had forgotten the key. Some random guy pulls out his keys and goes "I knew I would need it eventually!" And opened the dispenser. He said he had been carrying it on his Keychain for years.
IntHatBar@reddit
I worked in a building that had automatic paper towel dispensers in the bathroom. Wave your hand, get a bit of towel.
I was tired of waiting for enough to dry my hands so I ordered a key. I opened the machine and adjusted it to give a longer piece each wave and locked it back up. Problem solved.
garyadams_cnla@reddit
I have motorcycle helmets with face visors attached to my go-bag, which we take into our storm shelter for tornado events. Head protection for a storm is smart. Rarely hear it mentioned.
Also have extra eyeglasses for each of us in our go-bags, because they are essential to us.
Pretty boring comment on my part, but both could be useful.
Perpetual_Ronin@reddit
I have a horse riding helmet I keep with my emergency gear now that I no longer ride. Some noggin protection is better than none!!
XRlagniappe@reddit
Thought about this for riot protection as well, but it's a bit conspicuous.
MOF1fan@reddit
I was just thinking yesterday I need to start stashing all my old prescription glasses in various places. They are close enough I could at least "see" where without the world is a blur for sure.
trailside83@reddit
Dang… that is some outta the box thinking. On it.
Born-Onion-8561@reddit
Gas powered blender. Never know when you're going to be faced with an angry mob to appease with a batch of 'ritas.
whats_in_the_boxlady@reddit
Map with various local businesses locations listed and materials used and kept in stock. In particularly, bulk food and baking supplies. While groceries and big box retailers will be first hit, unassuming warehouses in industrial areas will keep their products for alot longer. If all they got is a decal on a front door, no one will go looking until we are deep into things.
MOF1fan@reddit
Very Walking Dead. I like it
whats_in_the_boxlady@reddit
I worked in semi repair so I have been at alot of places long before TWD and was making mental notes. The one bakers supply house is gonna be missed by the masses for sure.
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
CuriousGentleman001@reddit
I recently started my journey after I bought my first 10 acres. I think my layout and plans are pretty solid. I'm not much skilled in some maybe mosy areas, so everything is new to me and a learning experience. I'm taking up apprenticeship in plumbing, electrical, woodworking, welding, and mechanics, and also the YouTube tutorials. But this! This is very practical. I had thought about during an event what if I need to use heavy machinery, but I never thought much on it after. You've given me much to consider. Thank you!
hoardac@reddit
Yeah schooling helps out a lot.
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
Skills and knowledge are the ultimate prep. You can always improvise the stuff if you have the know how.
CuriousGentleman001@reddit
This is the general idea, and to be completely self reliant
StarlightLifter@reddit
Throw on EMT school for a real jack of all trades feeling.
CuriousGentleman001@reddit
Thanks! I actually did this in 2025
BookLuvr7@reddit
I wouldn't call it unique, but seeds. Our seeds for wild lettuce arrived yesterday. It's my first time working with it, but it's supposed to be a natural painkiller and sleep aid. I plan to make medicinal tinctures.
No, it's not the devil's lettuce. It's a different plant.
hoardac@reddit
We just went through ours today.
Ok-Scar7729@reddit
So this is something I'll chime in on. I used to have a really strong sleep tincture and I really strong immune boosting tincture that I carried with me. A painkiller tincture would also be very useful. These are small vials that are easy to carry, and I think tinctures offer your best weight/size to affect ratio when it comes to herbal medicine
BookLuvr7@reddit
Nice. May I ask what were in your blends, please?
Ok-Scar7729@reddit
The immune booster recipe I'm not comfortable sharing because it's basically a last resort concoction of a lot of poisons at small doses. Just enough to make your body kick into, "oh my God, don't die" immune and detox response. I deal with a lot of root work, I'm very experienced with poisons, and I know my tolerances. However, I was constantly afraid of the wrong person getting hold of that little dropper bottle.
For sleep, skull cap is my friend. Obviously valerian, passion flower is a nice immediate kick to help you lay down and turn off, I think chamomile is so mild that it's just not worth tincturing. Some solid indica, something like a train wreck strain, is also a nice additive but honestly it works well without it and then you don't have to worry about legal stuff while you travel.
I got robbed once while sleeping outdoors on that stuff without somebody else awake on post. I always preach that getting your sleep is one of the most important survival skills. Hiding while you sleep is important, too.
BookLuvr7@reddit
Makes sense. Thanks for the info!
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
But the devils lettuce could come in handy for barter and otherwise too ;)
BookLuvr7@reddit
Possibly, but legally getting those seeds in my current state is quite the challenge, so I'd rather just not. I moved to Utah for my husband's job. We can't even buy hard alcohol here to make the tinctures/extracts without going to a State Store that looks like a mini prison from the outside.
People here think it's normal. The rest of the country thinks it's ridiculous.
Illlogik1@reddit
Spare parts , my experience has shown that in the event of weather events over the years spare parts for generators, chainsaws , small engines , like spark plugs, carb kits , gaskets, air filters , oils , etc are either not easily accessible or gone off shelves if they were in stock to begin with- I keep several parts and kits for my devices on hand, labeled etc.
MOF1fan@reddit
Thanks for this one. Started a spare part list so I can go around and come up with a list of spare parts. I did this a few years ago with my AC & Furnace. Need to add my generator to the stores spares.
Illlogik1@reddit
Yup , it’s exhausting but gotta consider any single point of failure 😞
AntiSonOfBitchamajig@reddit
I just got out a spare alternator for my car out of the attic because it'd take a week to ship otherwise, and probably a serious cost issue if SHTF. I paid $25. for it on a "blemished / item returned" deal, they're literally $200 now, ooof. Well, at least "it was called on" / served its purpose, saved $, time, and everything worked.
OfMightAndMen@reddit
A (probably impractical) magnetic switch to bypass locks that rely on electromagnets
Locksmithbloke@reddit
If the power has been out for 3 days, that maglock isn't holding the door closed.
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
Is your magnetic switch bypass used on type of locks typically used on hinged hospital doors?
OfMightAndMen@reddit
Most doors that use a card swipe can be unlocked with this, especially if the failure state defaults to open on one side. You'll see the lock picking lawyer using one occasionally.
WinIll755@reddit
Seems pretty useful. Quieter than smashing it
Bearded-Wonder-1977@reddit
I have a spring loaded “yo-yo” fishing reel in my bug out bag that I can rig for overnight fishing.
HarpyCelaeno@reddit
Do all those things run on diesel?
DeafHeretic@reddit
Most anything above a riding lawn mower or “garden tractor", yes.
I have a number of old (40 YO) John Deere keys from when I used to be a diesel mech. But most equipment that old you could just hot wire it, or jump the starter if it had a manual fuel shutoff (many did, some shutoffs were built into the throttle). Unless it has an ECU/ECM/et. al., just “hot wiring” the key switch and/or jumping the starter would be sufficient.
With military vehicles/equipment, there is usually no key, just an on/off switch.
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
Heavy equipment typically runs on diesel. The places that use heavy equipment usually have a dedicated fuel truck on site to fuel and grease them as well.
Seawolfe665@reddit
14ft 1961 Mobile Scout Travel trailer.
With 300 W of solar on the roof and 2.176kWh LiFePO4 battery. Plus Jackery 1000 power unit with 200W solar. 2x 20lbs propane, propane stove, grill, water filtration + 2x 7 gal water jugs, 12V /120V 62L IceCo fridge/ freezer, bedding, clothes, medicine, toiletries, a week + worth of food, lights, radios, games, books, tools and a porta potty. And glamping twinkle lights.
Ok-Scar7729@reddit
On one hand I'm jealous. On the other hand I look at this and see so much investment that could be wiped out all at once by destruction or theft. What are your backup bug out systems?
Seawolfe665@reddit
My truck, and everything stored at my house. Planning to bug-in, really.
Ok-Scar7729@reddit
Nice! Officially jealous. Hope you have a lot of guns. 🤣
Ra_a_@reddit
Battery operated tea lights
We just have what you all have
MIRV888@reddit
Used (old) 48v 2200 mAh e-bike battery. It has an integrated usb port. That's a lot of usb charges.
RatioDisastrous1699@reddit
Medical/surgical books from nursing school.
machawes3@reddit
Oh yeah, great piece of kit! I ordered the universal heavy equipment key set too just in case. seemed like a good thing to have
ThePixelHunter@reddit
A mid-range 2025 smartphone with a 1TB MicroSD card containing maps, wikipedia, personal documents, entertainment, etc. etc.
MOF1fan@reddit
That gave me a good idea for my old phones. 👍🏼
dwbpainter@reddit
Have one also to run equipment, problem is you have to have the code to run the newer stuff. Also if there is an emp most won’t run.
indoor_recessV2@reddit
I have one too!
Jolopy4099@reddit
If i ever see a D9 plowing vehicles out of the way I'll wave hoping it's you.
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
A D9 is a tool of many uses. The only problem is they burn a lot of diesel. A D11 will use about 400 gallons in a 10hr shift if it’s working.
MyPrepAccount@reddit
Battery powered strings of Christmas lights
schmeillionaire@reddit
Shit Im gonna grab one today lol. I think mine is a Gardening encyclopedia set as well as an actual encyclopedia set and I mean physical copies in plastic in my basement.
Mandrew338@reddit
Long range small-frame FPV drone for reconnaissance purposes. Has a 30-40 minute loitering time, and a 3-4 mile radius (depending on environmental conditions).
AntiSonOfBitchamajig@reddit
r/DataHoarder level of entertainment, how-to books, YouTube how-to and prepping videos in 1080p, hundreds PC games, maps, apps of all sorts.
A time ago in the 2000s, there was a war in the middle-east where 97% of the personnel's time was "standby" ... there was a guy that brought such a data stash with him on his deployment, he basically turned into a kingpin EVERYONE traded with, and his side was copy-paste.
Life-Event6168@reddit
Illudium Q-36 Explosive Space Modulator
Northwoods_Phil@reddit
Pretty sure I still have my equipment master set that covers most American made equipment from the 60s to the late 90s. I got it when I was in tech school for ag mechanics years ago because it was typically easier to use my own keys than trying to find keys.
karebear66@reddit
I have a large stash of p*t seeds. Could be handy for barter.
irq013@reddit
In my home stash I have a box of airplane sized liquors. That should be better than currency if it gets bad. And if it doesn’t, at least we can get drunk.
TheRealBunkerJohn@reddit
Calibrated CDV ion chambers/geiger counters. Have to replace them in the next year or two due to the lab no longer servicing them, but they usually stay accurate for a while.
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
I’d say even if they’re slightly inaccurate it’s still better than nothing. Are there current variants of these meters that won’t break the bank?
TheRealBunkerJohn@reddit
For high range levels (nuclear war levels) I'd suggest a Ludlum Model 25. More modern and can be calibrated at the main Ludlum lab. They're available on Ebay used, and then you can just send them in for calibration when needed.
Not-a-Cranky-Panda@reddit
I'm in the UK and they have for key for Disabled Toilets called a Radar Key. What a lot of people don't know is on lots of walks in the county there is a gate stopping vehicle but the lock is a Radar lock so wheelchairs can use it.
ConstantStriking5063@reddit
My most unique preparedness item is CBRN & Radiation potassium iodine tablets. One of the most important item in such an attack if it came to be. Without health all other products would become useless to survival.
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
Is there a loading phase with these tablets? How soon are you protected?
ConstantStriking5063@reddit
Take the tablets like you would with any medication its in tablets form so water would suffice . No more then a 130 MG per 24 hours.
funke75@reddit
Not exactly sure if this counts, but I have a travel trailer I’ve decked out with an 800w of solar setup, and had additional dc outlets installed. The solar runs all the lights, levelers, water pump, and charging outlets, so its pretty off grid friendly.
ilreppans@reddit
Item: compact/efficient LDP longboard that’s ~2/3rds the pace/efficiency of a folding bike for ~1/10 the size. Paired with UL backpack kit, a self-sufficient (except water) BOB worth ~3d/120mi.
Skill: hygiene water conservation; eg shower/shampoo w/ <1L; wash dishes with a few oz; even waterless dishwashing.
TerribleConference54@reddit (OP)
I like it. Do you think a longboard could be adapted to run on a train track? I think the ability to travel off the beaten path could be valuable.