Preparedness Notes for Saturday — August 29, 2020

On August 29, 1862, the second Battle of Bull Run in Virginia began. This Battale is also referred to as “2nd Manassas”.   A blog reader notes: “Not that it is very important, but what you referred to as occurring in 1862, was actually 2nd Bull Run, although it is more commonly called the Battle of 2nd Manassas. It was fought in August 1862 on the same ground as the First Bull Run which was fought in July 1861. As for First Bull Run, the “First” is usually dropped. In the South, it was referred to as Manassas, but the Northern …




Versatile Photovoltaic Power – Part 1, by Tractorguy

Solar power from photovoltaic (PV) cells is an inexpensive, plentiful source of versatile energy for off-grid locations. This piece is not intended to be a comprehensive treatise on solar power design – there are many excellent books on the subject. Rather, this is a discussion specializing on considerations for solar power in a bug out location (BOL) or homestead, especially with some thoughts toward going forward after a grid-down event. It also describes some tips on what I have found works the best at my BOL. System Voltage – 12, 24, 36, or 48V? The higher voltage used, the more …




Editors’ Prepping Progress

To be prepared for a crisis, every Prepper must establish goals and make long-term and short-term plans. In this column, the SurvivalBlog editors review their week’s prep activities and planned prep activities for the coming week. These range from healthcare and gear purchases to gardening, ranch improvements, bug out bag fine-tuning, and food storage. This is something akin to our Retreat Owner Profiles, but written incrementally and in detail, throughout the year. Note that as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We always welcome you to share your own successes and wisdom in the Comments. Let’s keep busy …




The Editors’ Quote of the Day:

“Hear this, all ye people; give ear, all ye inhabitants of the world: Both low and high, rich and poor, together. My mouth shall speak of wisdom; and the meditation of my heart shall be of understanding. I will incline mine ear to a parable: I will open my dark saying upon the harp. Wherefore should I fear in the days of evil, when the iniquity of my heels shall compass me about? They that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches; None of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give …