When we are prepping to survive, food and water are of the utmost importance, but after that one could argue that weapons and self defense come next. Many people who are preparing don’t have a lot of experience with weapons. Some have never shot a gun before. It can be confusing to know where to start, and what your possibilities are. Having an arsenal of weapons will provide you with a real advantage though when the SHTF. You need the means to defend yourself, and each potential situation might call for a different weapon and course of action.
Firearms
For most people, firearms will be the most dependable and desirable weapons to protect themselves. I happen to fall into that camp as well. My goal is to never have to fire my weapon. If someone is trying to forcibly enter my domicile to do who knows what to me, if I point a double barrel shotgun at them, there’s a 99% chance they will turn around and run away petrified.
Knives
I really don’t consider knives to be weapons, but more as tools. Obviously a knife can be used as a weapon and has been countless times throughout history. In countries like England where guns have been banned, knife stabbings are common in cities like London. Trying to stab someone who is trying to break your door down isn’t a very effective measure though.
While knives might not be a great weapon, other sharp objects like a sword or a machete could be used in certain situations. I prefer a firearm over all sharp object weapons though. Both to use as a warning and to use to take a threat down. If you are going to be hunkered down at home with several people, having one person hold a sword from one direction and the other family member pointing a gun on the other side makes quite a statement.
Bow and Arrow
Not the most conventional of weapons, but a bow and arrow can be very effective. It is also virtually silent, where shooting off a firearm will be quite loud and other people nearby will definitely be able to hear it. A crossbow can be very intimidating when its pointed right at you with an arrow bent back.
Mace Pepper Spray and Tasers
Some people will want to stick with non lethal weapons, and that is certainly understandable. If that is your position, I would advise you to own a pistol that is unloaded for show, or a fake pistol altogether if it is very convincing.
