This thread is to discuss many of the misconceptions and truths about surviving the aftermath of an initial Zombie outbreak.
We've all seen many, if not all of the Zombie movies out there. Romero's movies, the Resident Evil movies, etc. We've all read many of the Zombie threads on here, as well as other places. And the one thing that many people seem to be overlooking that is found in these movies is the most basic part of any survival plan.... Survival.
Many threads talk about going to, say, a farm. Fortifying it, and growing your own food, and keeping some animals. While it is a very good idea, it's based on the premise that there will be someone that knows about farming (or even someone that knows how to tend to a vegetable garden... on a larger scale). Also based on the assumption that the ground will be able to grow anything, or that there will be water to irrigate any crops (let alone, for drinking). They also don't take into consideration elements that are found in other post Apocolyptic movies... bad guys (or as I call them, land pirates).
While this is generally a good idea, it has too many unknown variables.
Next, we have threads that talk about going to the mountains. With this, we run into a supply issue. You can only take so much with you, that doesn't slow you down.
Others feel best thing to do, IF you can safely do so, is to get out of, or away from, major cities. Even if it means going to a suburb 20 miles away. The reason for this, less populated, less zombies. Well, this is based on the notion that that's true, and that zombies don't migrate to find food. Plus, if you were to find a suitable house, will you be certain that there isn't anyone already in it? Not everyone will be inviting to strangers, even if the world is ending. Plus, you have to consider supply issues. Will you be able to do a supply run? Will the nearest stores have already been looted of everything needed to keep you alive?
Again, good idea, but... too many unknown variables.
Let's talk about weapons.
Many people belive that melee weapons are a far better choice than firearms, and many feel the opposite is true. So, we break down the pros and cons of each. We'll start with firearms...
Pros:
1, medium to long range weapons
2, with proficiency, you'd be able to defend yourself from multiple enemies (both zombies AND land pirates), using very little ammo, and very little to no physical exertion.
Let's talk about this for a monet before moving on. Firearms proficiency isn't something you develope over a period of days, it can take weeks, even months to become a very good shot. Unless you are opposed to shooting for any reason, I suggest you go to a range that gives instructions, rent a handgun and rifle, and learn how to shoot them. Also, continue shooting, asking for help from the intructors as needed.
3, Ammo isn't as limited a resource as others may claim, you just have to know where to look (unless you know how to reload, and know where to get the needed supplies).
Cons:
1, to be effective, you must have a level of proficiency with them. So, before the Zombies even get here, you should learn how to shoot properly and well. I know a lot of people can't really justify spending the money on range time, a firearm and instructor, so it can be difficult. Easiest solution: find a friend or relative that shoots, and ask to go with them.
2, the "jam"... while it is true that firearms CAN jam, it is not an absolute that they WILL. There are many simple and easy measures to ensure this does not happen. First and foremost is something every member of the military knows: clean your firearms. This can be done daily, and it doesn't have to be that detailed. Just making sure that the carbon is removed from certain areas, and they are properly lubed will ensure that a jam doesn't happen. Next issue that causes jamming... the wrong ammunition. Take the .45 caliber. Many people seem to think that's the optimum choice, it's not bad, it's not good... it just depends on the shooter's likes. Now, ammo with the .45... most 1911s, and other semi-autos shoot .45 ACP. There are, however, some that shoot .45 Super. Those that are chambered for .45 Super, can also shoot .45 ACP, however, those that are chambered for .45ACP (also known as .45 auto) can't shoot .45 Super. Then, there is also .45 Colt. This is for .45 cal revolvers, only. This list can go on and on, so if you have any questions about a certain caliber you like, send me a PM.
3, ammo capacity... most handguns are sold with 10 round magazines (mags), and rifle mags typically vary in capacity, depending on the rifle itself (please, don't use the word "clip", unless you are talking about the M1, as they are not, nor have ever been called clips... only in movies..). Even if you have high capacity (hi-cap) mags, you still can only hold so many. Which means that you need to change mags quickly. Under stress, if you don't have the proficiency, you might not be able to swap mags before you are made into a snack.
Time for Melee
Pros:
1, ease of access.. pretty much anything can be used as a melee weapon (to include that rilfe that just ran out of ammo). All you need is a good imagination and the right supplies and you can make yourself plenty of weapons at a very low cost (prior to the outbreak).
2, while they do require some cleaning, it's a very simply, cleaning it with bleach or amonia (never use them at the same time). Though, if you have a bladed weapon as a melee, you need to sharpen if every so often, the frequency depends on the useage.
3, very little training is needed, just swing
Cons:
1, this is the most important: YOU EXERT MORE PHYSICAL ENERGY THAN YOU SHOULD HAVE TO!!!! That said, keep in mind, that you may have to run away from an area, and if you just bashed 10 zombies, you may not be able to make it far.
2, it is a very close range weapon... one slip and you can be lunch
3, Swords and machettes: you do need a level of proficiency with these. Not saying you need to know how to sword fight, but you do need to know some basics. Grip, stances, strikes and blocks. Grip: you need to know how to hold it, so you don't swing, miss, and cut into your leg. I've seen it, it's ugly. Stances: you need to know how to stand while striking, so that if you do miss, agin.. so you don't cut into your leg. Strikes (more than blocks), same reason, not cutting into your leg. This is for both swords and machettes.
4, depending on the type of zombie, any fluids left inside could possibly hold a contagion that, when coming in contact with you (eyes, mouth, open cut, heck.. even skin - depends on how it spreads), melee weapons will cause splatter, and if not wearing proper protective gear, you risk infecting yourself and others.
Summary of which weapons to use: Very simple, both!
I can go on and on, but I'll stop it with this passing wisdom:
There are too many unknown variables to come up with an all encompassing plan, and the key is to survive. That means avoid the zombies every chance you get, and only fight when there is no choice (or, you really want to stay in a really nice mansion... just make sure you don't accidentally kill Bill Murray).
