Dear Editor:
I am 24 years old and struggling to get a career started in a field other than hospitality. I cannot afford a retreat, and have not had much luck joining other groups due to my lack of skills to the level desired, and my lack of money to afford all the prerequisites many groups have. My question is how can I best prepare to live out of my backpack in a tight spot? I have been training in certain areas like physical fitness and minimalist hiking. I did just obtain my Wilderness First Responder from Wilderness Medical Institute. I also hope to obtain an EMT certification this winter. I have put together a bug out bag that I’d call 90% complete. One thing that’s missing is any firepower. I simply cannot afford even the cheapest AK-47 firearm as well as the ammunition and training. What would you recommend? Cheers, – John
JWR Replies: If you look around, you can buy a Turkish contract Mauser 8x57mm for less that $90, a Mosin Nagant 7.62x54r for less that $100, or a Yugoslavian Mauser 8x57mm for less than $200. Big 5 Sporting Goods stores often have military surplus rifles for sale.
Watch your local newspaper classifieds ads for private parties with guns for sale. Also check the Big 5 sale flyer, weekly. ( Enter your own ZIP code to see the location of your local store.) You might also find a bargain at a local gun show.
As for low-cost training, I have just one word for you: Appleseed.