SuburbanPrepper

Nations with High Tariffs on American Products or Imports Several nations impose significant tariffs and trade barriers on American exports, impacting industries like agriculture, manufacturing, and technology. These tariffs are often shaped by geopolitical factors, domestic industry protection, or retaliatory trade policies. Below is an analysis of key nations with harsh tariffs on U.S. products. 1. China China is one of the largest trade partners of the United States but has imposed steep tariffs on various U.S. goods, largely as part of ongoing trade tensions. Tariff Highlights: Additional tariffs on agricultural products (e.g., soybeans, pork, and wine), often reaching 25%. High tariffs on U.S. technology products like semiconductors. Retaliatory tariffs during trade disputes (e.g., during the U.S.-China trade war). Impact on U.S. Exports: U.S. farmers and ranchers, particularly soybean producers, have faced significant losses due to these high tariffs. 2. European Union (EU) T...

Why True Preppers Understand the Value of Gold and Silver Preparedness, at its core, is about resilience and foresight. Preppers pride themselves on being ready for any situation, whether it’s an economic collapse, natural disaster, or any scenario where self-reliance becomes essential. Yet, in this community, there seems to be a significant oversight by some who claim to be preppers but neglect one basic principle of long-term security: the inclusion of gold and silver in their emergency plans. These individuals are what I call “Preppers in Name Only”—and they risk being caught unprepared when it matters most. The Case for Gold and Silver in Preparedness Gold and silver have been used as currency for thousands of years, long before paper money became the norm. When national currencies collapse or hyperinflation renders them worthless, history shows us that precious metals emerge as a reliable and universally accepted form of trade. Not recognizing their role in true preparedness under...

Investment Guide for Prepping and Survivalism When it comes to prepping and survivalism, creating a secure financial foundation is just as critical as stocking up on food, water, and other essential supplies. Financial prepping ensures you are equipped for unexpected challenges, from economic downturns to natural disasters. This guide will walk you through the basic principles of financial prepping and offer investment strategies to help you prepare for an uncertain future. Why Financial Prepping Matters in Survivalism Survivalism often focuses on physical goods and skills, but your finances are just as important. Economic collapse, hyperinflation, supply chain disruptions, and emergencies demand not only survival supplies but also financial stability. With proper financial planning and investments, you gain peace of mind knowing you’re prepared to handle any scenario. Key reasons financial prepping matters include: Economic Security: Money can quickly lose its value in times o...

JD Vance | From Appalachian Roots to Vice Presidential Excellence JD Vance's story is nothing short of remarkable. From his humble beginnings in the Appalachian region to becoming a figure admired by preppers and patriots alike, his path has been defined by resilience, discipline, and leadership. The Appalachian Prepper Deeply tied to his roots, JD Vance is a man who understands self-reliance and preparedness, values often celebrated by the prepper community. His upbringing in Appalachia instilled in him a sense of grit and resourcefulness, qualities that resonate with those who prioritize planning for an uncertain future. Marine Combat Veteran & E4 Mafia Member JD’s service in the United States Marine Corps marks a pivotal chapter in his life. A Marine combat veteran, he exemplifies courage under pressure. His time as a member of the "Marine E4 Mafia" further highlights the camaraderie and informal leadership within the ranks that shaped his ability to insp...

Donald Trump as the Ultimate Urban Prepper: A Survivalist's Perspective Prepping and survivalism often conjure images of people stockpiling supplies in bunkers or retreating into the woods to live off the grid. However, urban prepping is a rapidly growing movement, focusing on thriving in densely populated areas when crises strike. This approach demands creativity, adaptability, and resourcefulness. Thinking about these traits, some might surprisingly argue that Donald Trump embodies the characteristics of an "ultimate urban prepper." Whether or not you agree with his politics, examining his decisions, personality, and strategies sheds light on why some survivalists may hold Trump as a unique figure for discussion. Resourcefulness in Unpredictable Situations One of the key principles of prepping is resourcefulness, and Trump has showcased an ability to pivot and adapt quickly in unpredictable scenarios. From real estate bankruptcy recoveries in the '90s to pol...

How to Install a Wood Stove in Your Home for Emergencies Installing a wood stove in your home can be a practical solution for staying warm and cooking during an emergency. If you’re considering a temporary setup, one relatively simple option is to use an existing window as the entry point for the stove’s chimney. Follow the steps below to safely install your wood stove: Materials You’ll Need: Wood stove Stove pipe/chimney pipe Fire-resistant materials (stove board or cement board) Plywood or a thick wood board Aluminum flashing or heat-resistant sealant Tape measure Jigsaw or circular saw Drill and screws Caulking gun (with weatherproof caulk) Heat-resistant gloves Step 1: Choose the Right Location Select a well-ventilated area in your home for the wood stove. Make sure there’s enough clearance between the stove and nearby walls, furniture, or other flammable materials (at least 36 inches, or refer to the stove manufacturer’s recommendations). Step 2: Prepare ...

Survival Coffee Guide: Crafting Your Perfect Survival Coffee with an Outdoor Wood Stove Setup When you’re out in the wild with the crisp air, the scent of wood smoke, and the sound of nature all around you, there’s nothing quite like the promise of a fresh, steaming cup of coffee. But brewing coffee outdoors, especially in a survival situation, requires creativity and technique. This guide will show you how to set up an outdoor wood stove and brew the perfect survival coffee under the open sky. Why an Outdoor Wood Stove? An outdoor wood stove is a reliable, low-tech tool for brewing coffee in the wilderness. It’s lightweight, portable, and only needs wood or twigs as fuel, making it ideal for backpackers, campers, and survivalists. A proper setup ensures efficient heat and safe brewing. Setting Up Your Outdoor Wood Stove Here’s how to get started with your outdoor wood stove: Step 1. Find a Safe Spot Choose a well-ventilated area that is clear of flammable objects like grass, leaves,...

Medical Training Every Prepper Should Master Emergencies can strike without warning, and in those moments, having essential medical training can make all the difference. Whether you're preparing for natural disasters, long-term power outages, or unforeseen crises, mastering basic and advanced medical skills is crucial for every prepper. This guide covers the top medical trainings you should prioritize to keep yourself and others safe when professional help might not be immediately available. Why Medical Training Matters for Preppers When a crisis limits access to healthcare professionals, knowing how to handle medical emergencies can save lives. From treating minor injuries to managing life-threatening conditions, medical preparedness gives you the confidence to act quickly and effectively under stress. 1. Basic First Aid Mastering basic first aid is the fundamental starting point for any prepper. These skills are lifesaving for minor incidents you could face during an emer...

Common Shooting Mistakes That Lead to Malfunctions Whether you're new to firearms or brushing up on your skills, avoiding mistakes that can cause malfunctions is crucial. Here’s a guide to help you identify common errors and ensure every shot goes off without a hitch. 1. Poor Grip The Mistake: Holding the firearm too loosely or without proper positioning weakens your control over the gun, increasing the chance of a malfunction. How It Causes Issues: Improper grip often leads to “limp wristing.” When the wrist doesn’t stabilize the recoil, the slide may not move back far enough to cycle the next round correctly, resulting in jams or misfeeds. Solution: Use a firm grip with both hands and ensure the web between your thumb and index finger is high on the backstrap. Keep your wrists locked and your arms steady to reduce recoil interference. 2. Incorrect Ammunition The Mistake: Loading your firearm with the wrong caliber or low-quality ammunition. How It Causes Issues:...

EDC Flashlight Showdown: Which Reigns Supreme? When it comes to everyday carry (EDC) gear, a reliable flashlight is often a must-have. Whether you need it for outdoor adventures, emergency preparedness, or simply navigating through a dark space, the right flashlight can make all the difference. But with so many options on the market, which one stands out as the best? Let's break it down by comparing three of the most popular EDC flashlights in the game today. Key Features to Consider Before we jump into the comparison, it’s important to understand what makes a flashlight great for EDC. Here are the factors we’ll be focusing on: Size and Portability: Lightweight and compact are essential for carrying it daily. Brightness (Lumens): More lumens mean better performance in the dark, but balance brightness with battery efficiency. Durability: Sturdy construction and resistance to water and impacts are nonnegotiable. Battery Life and Type: Rechargeable vs. replaceable batteries, and...

The Shocking Truth About Long-Term Food Storage For many, the idea of long-term food storage revolves around peace of mind. Stockpiling for emergency preparedness, natural disasters, or even fluctuating food prices seems smart and straightforward. But behind the allure of security lies a host of misconceptions, risks, and startling realities that you deserve to know. The Illusion of Perpetual Shelf Life The term “long-term” itself is misleading. Many prepackaged emergency foods or canned goods claim shelf lives of 25 years or more. While this might seem like a guarantee of indefinite usability, the reality is different. Environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and light exposure can significantly degrade the nutritional quality, texture, and flavor of stored food well before its label expiration date. Further, some foods, such as high-fat items (like peanut butter), tend to go rancid faster due to their chemical composition. Even vacuum-sealed packaging can’t halt this entir...

DIY Projects for Your SHTF Plan: Easy and Effective When preparing for a "Situation Hits The Fan" (SHTF) scenario, having a robust plan in place can make all the difference. Doing it yourself (DIY) not only saves money but also allows you to customize your tools, supplies, and systems according to your specific needs. Whether you're prepping for natural disasters, power outages, or long-term emergencies, these easy and effective DIY projects will help ensure you're ready for whatever comes your way. 1. DIY Water Filtration System Clean drinking water is essential for survival. While stockpiling bottled water is practical, having a backup plan is crucial. What You’ll Need: A 5-gallon bucket with a lid Activated charcoal, fine sand, and gravel Coffee filters or a fine cloth A spigot (available at most hardware stores) How to Make It: Drill a hole near the bottom of the bucket and attach the spigot. Layer gravel, sand, and activated charcoal inside the ...

How to Create Your Ultimate Bugout Bag A bugout bag is your go-to survival kit, specifically designed to help you sustain yourself for up to 72 hours in an emergency. Whether you’re preparing for a natural disaster, an evacuation, or other unforeseen events, the ultimate bugout bag is about more than just tossing random gear into a backpack. It requires careful planning, thoughtful selections, and a clear understanding of your environment. Here’s a detailed guide to building your ultimate bugout bag. 1. Choose the Right Bag Your bugout bag starts with the bag itself. Pick a backpack that's durable, lightweight, and spacious with multiple compartments for organization. Ideally, it should: Be water-resistant Have padded straps for comfort Provide enough space for 3 days' worth of supplies Some top backpack options include tactical backpacks or hiking packs designed for rugged outdoor use. 2. Water & Hydration You can’t survive more than 3 days without water, so hydration ...

The Best Bugout Bag for Storing Your Survival Gear When it comes to preparing for emergencies, having a well-thought-out bugout bag is essential. It’s more than just a backpack; it’s your lifeline in situations where you need to evacuate quickly or survive on the go. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best bugout bag to suit your needs? We’re here to break it down for you. What Makes a Great Bugout Bag? Before we jump into specific recommendations, here are the key features to look for in a bugout bag: Capacity: Your bag should be able to fit essentials like food, water, first-aid supplies, clothing, and tools. A capacity of 40–60 liters is ideal for most people. Durability: Look for materials like high-denier nylon or polyester. These are water-resistant and tough enough to handle harsh conditions. Comfort: Adjustable padded shoulder straps, a hip belt, and a breathable back panel make carrying heavy loads much more comfortable. Organization: Multi...

Bug Out Bag Checklist: What You Might Forget When prepping your bug out bag, the essentials like water, food, and a flashlight probably make the list right away. But in a high-stress situation, it’s easy to forget those small but crucial items that can play a big role in your survival. Use this checklist as a reminder of what you might be overlooking: Shelter & Warmth Emergency Mylar Blanket: Lightweight but lifesaving for warmth and shelter. Poncho: Keeps you dry while doubling as a makeshift shelter. Paracord: Perfect for building shelter or repairing gear. Water & Hydration Water Purification Tablets or Drops: A quick way to make questionable water drinkable. Collapsible Water Bottle: Compact and easy to carry. Pre-Filled Water Bladder: Instant access to clean drinking water. Food & Cooking Mess Kit or Collapsible Cookware: Lightweight and essential for preparing meals. Portable Stove or Solid Fuel Tabs: For cooking if no firewood is available. Spices or Salt Packets: Im...

My Top Picks for This Month's EDC (Everyday Carry) Gear Showcase Whether you're a seasoned minimalist or just stepping into the EDC world, having reliable and functional gear is key to staying prepared for the day ahead. This month's picks focus on a balance of utility, durability, and style. Here’s what made the cut: 1. Benchmade Bugout 535 Knife A solid yet lightweight pocket knife is an EDC essential. The Benchmade Bugout 535 combines a sharp CPM-S30V steel blade with a super lightweight Grivory handle, making it both durable and easy to carry. It’s compact, sleek, and cuts like a dream. 2. Olight Baton 3 Flashlight A compact flashlight that punches above its weight, the Olight Baton 3 delivers 1200 lumens in a tiny package. Perfect for quick fixes in the dark or power outages, its magnetic charging case ensures you’re never left without light. 3. Ridge Wallet Sleek, secure, and nearly indestructible, the Ridge Wallet is perfect for simplifying your everyday carry. It ho...

Safety Guide for New Shooters If you're new to handling firearms, congratulations on taking the first step toward learning an important skill. However, shooting comes with a tremendous responsibility. To ensure your safety, as well as the safety of those around you, it's critical to understand the basic principles of firearm safety. This guide will walk you through everything every new shooter needs to know to stay safe and responsible. The Four Cardinal Rules of Gun Safety These rules are the foundation of safe firearm handling. Every shooter, no matter their skill level, should know them by heart: Treat every firearm as if it’s loaded. Always assume a gun is loaded until you personally verify otherwise. Never take someone else's word for it. Check both the chamber and magazine yourself before handling it. Never point the firearm at anything you’re not willing to destroy. This is one of the most vital safety principles. Whether you're at the range, in your home, ...

Ultimate Night Vision Setup for Beginners Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a hunter, or just looking to explore the world after sundown, night vision can unlock a realm of possibilities. If you're new to night vision, getting started can seem overwhelming. With the various technologies, devices, and price points, knowing what works for you is essential. This guide walks you through everything you need for the ultimate night vision setup. What is Night Vision? Night vision allows the human eye to see in low-light or no-light conditions. It works by amplifying ambient light (through image intensification) or detecting heat signatures (using thermal imaging). The type of night vision setup you choose depends on your goals and needs. Why Start with a Beginner Setup? A beginner-level night vision setup is more affordable and user-friendly than higher-end, professional-grade equipment. Plus, it provides an accessible way to learn and experiment without making a significant in...

Mastering Ham Radio for SHTF Scenarios When disaster strikes and traditional communication channels fail, ham radio becomes a lifeline. Whether you’re preparing for natural disasters, power outages, or complete infrastructure collapse, mastering ham radio ensures you stay connected when it matters most. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about ham radio for SHTF (Sh*t Hits The Fan) scenarios. What is Ham Radio? Ham radio, or amateur radio, is a communication system that allows users to transmit and receive messages using radio frequencies. Unlike cell phones or the internet, ham radio does not rely on centralized networks, making it an invaluable tool when modern infrastructure is unavailable. It’s used by hobbyists, emergency responders, and preppers alike for its versatility and reliability. Why Use Ham Radio in SHTF Scenarios? Ham radio stands out as the best communication method in SHTF situations for several compelling reasons: Independence: It operates w...

The Surprising Benefits of Scanning Police Frequencies Scanning police frequencies might seem like a niche hobby or something reserved for those in law enforcement, but in reality, it can be an invaluable activity for curious residents, community-oriented individuals, or safety-conscious citizens. While it’s not widely discussed, tuning into local radio frequencies is a legal and accessible way to stay informed and connected to what’s happening in your area. But what are the benefits of scanning police frequencies? Here are some surprising reasons why this practice might be worthwhile for you. 1. Stay Informed About Local Emergencies One of the primary perks of listening to police frequencies is staying updated on emergencies in real-time. Whether it’s a fire, accident, or weather-related incident affecting your neighborhood, scanners give you live insights that news reports or public notifications may take time to deliver. When seconds can make all the difference, real-time in...