The Nail That Sticks Out Gets Hammered

"The nail that sticks out gets hammered." - Japanese proverb

During a period of civil unrest, you're either a number or a target. No matter how well equipped you or your small group may be for conflict, full battle rattle is going to draw a world of unwanted attention from the hoods and have-nots. That overt plate carrier and camo you're wearing? The city will eventually swallow you whole, thinking you're another cop, criminal, or loot drop. But at what point does our affinity for load bearing equipment or camo become a liability in urban preparedness? With big city problems, I figure it's sooner rather than later.

Keeping it Real

When we look at the hypotheticals of urban preparedness, almost every situation comes with a list of hot kit. While streetwear has dulled the eyes to a touch of molle, that multicam plate carrier and bump helmet won't go unnoticed. I'm certainly not immune to the allure of Crye's finest - and lord help me when I push out into the sticks - but the realities of urban preparedness require a far more subtle approach to keep from emboldening others.

Stow it, cover it, conceal it.

Urban preparedness relies heavily on the on the concept of hiding in plain sight, and our approach to a SHTF loadout should be no different. A muted shell or hoodie can go a long way to conceal a plate carrier, while a backpack or fanny pack can be used to offset your usual LBE. Trim back those battle belts, use your jacket pockets. Get creative. An empty two-four and guitar case will get a war chest across town without a second look, just like a plain smock or M65 will have you blending in on both sides of the tracks.

Think gorp-core, not war-torn.

People have a nasty habit of acting up when the chips are down, and that sentiment only grows when the mob is alive and well. If history and experience have shown us anything about civil unrest, it's just how important it is to keep that target off your back until you're ready to go loud. You're a number first and a lesson second, so don't forget to dress the part before you step outside.

How does your Urban Survival loadout differ From The Kit You Carry In the sticks?

Civil Unrest, Bags and KitJHJuly 14, 2023Urban Preparedness, Urban Prepping, Urban Survival, Prepping, Prepping Blog, Prepper Blog, Apartment Prepping, Civil Unrest, City Prepping, Self Defense, Loadout, SHTF, SHTF Blog, SHTF LoadoutComment

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