Hi Jim,
Regarding the MURS Radio Barter Experiment, I had a very good response from your readers. This experiment was thought up after reading many barter articles on your blog. While this experiment might not be typical of a face-to-face bartering experience, the results were interesting nonetheless. A few offers were under valued, the majority were close enough in value to be considered, and a few were “very well valued”. Here is a sampling of what I was offered:
90% silver coins – all ranges of values were offered including “junk” coins and Silver Dollars
Printing material – business cards, letterhead, etc.
Woodworking services (not local to me though)
Poker chip set with aluminum case
Portable water filters and cartridges
Front Sight 2 day course certificate
Several types of ammo magazines and various firearm parts
Books by Jim Rawles: Patriots, Rawles on Retreats and Relocation, and Rawles Gets You Ready Course (multiple copies of each)
High end LED flashlights
Frontline Plus flea/tick control for pets
Ammo reloading equipment
Swiss Army watch and champion knife
Camouflage clothing
Home schooling math course
Body armor
Packages of MREs
What surprised me the most was the wide range of items offered. I chose a couple of items not based on need but because I could easily barter them to someone else. I chose the camo clothing, water filters, LED flashlights, some silver coins, and the stack of Jim Rawles’ books. The clothing, books, and coins stay with me. The flashlights and water filters were successfully re-bartered locally.
Since I obtained multiple copies of the Rawles books, I shared a set between family and close friends in the hopes they would “see the light” in getting themselves prepared. (Unsolicited comment: If you
don’t have these books, then I highly suggest them. They are very informative.)
I wish to thank you and your readers for your participation in this experiment. Overall it was successful and fun! I still have some $49 MURS Radios for sale for outdoor spring and summer time activities. Thank you very much! – Rob