That’s becoming more evident today with the masses of “cultural enrichers” invading North America, the UK, and mainland Europe. But that’s not all: people everywhere are also losing their minds, thanks to the crisis and instability, causing friction and violence to rise. I believe this mass insanity will get worse as time passes.

This time, I wanted to go beyond the typical “situational awareness” advice and provide more practical and direct actions to improve personal safety, navigate big city streets, and deal with various situations and unwanted players.

#1 – USEFUL LIES

It’s perfectly fine to lie and create distractions and misdirections when dealing with strangers. When staying silent isn’t an option, use as few words as necessary. The more we talk, the more we give away or complicate ourselves, so keep it short so as not to get trapped in complex stories or contradict yourself.

– Don’t reveal your address.

When an app or taxi driver asks if you “live here,” say, “No, I’m just visiting a friend.” If possible, ask them to stop a few meters before or after your destination, maybe walk a block or two if your sixth sense tells you something’s off.

– You’re never alone.

This is great for women who are approached by a stranger or group, but it also works for men, depending on the situation. When someone tries to start a conversation by asking if you are accompanied (or whatever), just reply, “Yes, my husband/father/friend is here with me.”

– Never provide personal information.

When someone asks, “Do you work here?” “What’s your profession?” or inquires about personal information, casually give vague replies such as “I work in commerce.” Another appropriate reply I’ve used successfully is, “I just got fired and am looking for a job.”

– Never reveal your personal status and financial condition.

It’s silly to try and pass as dispossessed, but if a stranger starts probing (inquiring about your stuff), for instance, if your watch, purse, or piece of jewelry is genuine, tell them it’s a cheap knock-off in a nonchalant tone.

– You’re a savvy local.

If someone asks you, “Is this your first time here?” you can just say, “No, I’m from here,” and go on your way. If they insist, tell them you’re expecting someone and want to be alone to cut the conversation. Try not to look like a tourist. Search places and get directions beforehand to avoid browsing a smartphone in public areas.

– Be vague, play dumb, and ask questions.

People are afraid to pass for fools, and some street folks know how to take advantage of that. Acting a little loony can be useful in some situations. Shooting back with questions is another great way to deflect and uncover information simultaneously without sounding menacing or intrusive. When it comes to delivery, be playful and relaxed or firm and decided, depending on how you choose to act.

Here’s more advice on how not to give out personal information.

#2 – ASSERT A BOUNDARY

A boundary is for your protection, so forget about someone else’s feelings. Get comfortable making people uncomfortable once they cross your boundaries. Be assertive: Don’t ask, don’t wait for further advancements, and be direct (“I need you to take a step away,” “I need to leave now”), firmly but without sounding nervous or raising your voice. Daisy wrote more about this here.

#3 – BE PATIENT

We live in an era of instant gratification and short attention spans. But some things can be rushed in the streets, and many others cannot. The situation has a vote: It dictates what we can (or should) and cannot (or shouldn’t) do.

When I’m out there as a homeless person, I have to bide my time and wait for the right opportunity to do something I want or need all the time. It’s a good exercise, so much so that I talk about it in my street survival training book.

#4 – BE OBSERVANT

Most people walking in public spaces or riding in buses and trains might be somewhat aware of their surroundings and not with their heads in the clouds, but that’s different from being actively observant.

Paying close attention to details and the environment can be a superpower, improving our safety and other aspects of our lives. It requires focus, commitment, and being fully 100% in the moment. It’s a skill that can be developed and improved with practice.

For instance, when riding in a taxi, memorize the color, license plate, and any outstanding details. It’s OK to take a picture if that helps or you cannot memorize everything at the moment, but keep paying attention: How is the car inside and outside? Does the driver have tattoos? Are they tidy and well-presented? Does he or she look intoxicated? Calm, nervous, or agitated?

Another example: when riding a bus or train, take a look before grabbing a handle or taking a seat. Does it look stained or wet? Is there something under the seat, a backpack, a paper bag, or any suspicious object?

#5 – USE EMPATHY TECHNIQUES

In the streets, it’s not uncommon to negotiate something or persuade someone to settle or find a solution to a problem, dispute, contentious matter, or even get out of trouble. Advanced empathy techniques can work well for that and lots more. They can be imperceptible and highly effective if applied properly and subtly to come out naturally.

Some say that’s manipulation, but if your safety and well-being are at risk then who cares, anything is acceptable. Consider this an introduction. Advanced social engineering techniques are a complex and extensive subject, but it is worth reading a few books and practicing to improve these valuable skills.

– Mirroring

The act of unconsciously copying another person’s gesture, speech pattern, or attitude is known as mirroring, and it can help someone establish a connection with others. Another name for it is the chameleon effect.

Mirroring can help build rapport with the person being mirrored by making them feel more connected to the person displaying the mirrored behavior. The two people in the scenario may think they have comparable attitudes and beliefs because they use similar nonverbal cues. Individuals experience a stronger sense of engagement and belonging as a result.

– Reading people

I’ve already gone over the importance of street reading for urban survival here on The Organic Prepper for city dwellers. People-reading is another valuable skill, as we inevitably encounter situations where we must deal with another person or even a group of persons.

Some people are natural-born “people readers.” It’s a talent, a very useful one. Good sales and businesspeople are two examples (politicians are another, unfortunately). But it’s perfectly possible to train and develop this ability. Sales and business courses, as well as police academies, usually teach techniques of what to look for and listen to when interacting with others.

But it doesn’t have to be anything fancy. It’s possible to become a good people reader just by observing people with attention and open mind. Humans are overly self-centered, which keeps us from becoming good at listening and reading others. Once we let our ego aside and dedicate ourselves to understanding and seeing others for what they are – without judgment, bias, prejudice, etc. – it starts coming.

– Reverse psychology

Reverse psychology is a persuasion tactic that involves advocating or pushing for a behavior different from the desired outcome. In other words, we say the opposite of what we want to encourage the other person to do what we actually want.

It works based on a psychological phenomenon known as reactance, which is having a strong negative reaction to someone attempting to persuade us. As a result, we do the opposite of what they are trying to persuade us to do in an unconscious effort to assert our independence and autonomy.

Parents, lovers, and marketers might know this well—or not. We use this strategy on others all the time and fall for it, too, often without even realizing it. Usually, the target of this strategy is unaware of what is going on and may not be completely aware of the other person’s true intentions.

#6 – BONUS: 15 Short rules to survive in the big city

1. Nothing in the streets is personal, so don’t take anything personally. If someone bumps, attacks, or shouts at you, it’s because the attacker is either (a) having a bad day, (b) mentally ill (or on drugs), or (c) wants something from you (a robber, beggar, solicitor, etc). Ignoring and moving away is the best strategy.
2. Step back in avoidable danger. Step up in unavoidable danger.
3. Stereotyping can keep you safer than a firearm: be wary of suspicious types, but don’t neglect or make things easier for anyone, regardless of sex, age, size, appearance, uniform, or whatever. Ignore all PC bullsh*t if you want to stay alive.
4. Trust your instincts and always err on the safe side.
5. Decaying infrastructure can be a hazard. Keep your head on a swivel, but scan ahead and pay attention to where you’re going.
6. In the streets, we command things by the way we conduct ourselves. Opt for non-verbal language to communicate your intentions.
7. You don’t have to respond, argue, justify, or pontificate. When in doubt, remember that silence can’t be misquoted.
8. Stay in control of yourself. When having a conversation, keep your voice low and delivery calm, paced. If you start feeling nervous, pause and, slow down, pay attention to your breathing.
9. Nodding is a way to let someone know you notice their presence. If you must acknowledge a stranger (for whatever reason), nod down. It’s more formal and doesn’t look defiant. If you know the person, it’s OK to raise your chin and nod up. This works in most Western cultures and places.
10. Never stop moving. If you must stop to browse your phone or take a call or whatever, turn your back to a building or wall facing the sidewalk, give a 360 look, and be quick. Or enter a safe place. Jaywalking is OK if it’s safer than standing still waiting to crosswalk.
11. Don’t look at anyone. Eye contact means you acknowledge the other person. The exception is when you want to let someone know you noticed them for some reason, for instance, to disarm a surprise attack you see coming (see “nod up vs. nod down” above).
12. Stay alert for situations in which every second counts. These are the exceptions but matter the most. The rest, not so much, so chill.
13. To keep strangers from getting close, extend an arm with the hand open in their direction and say “can’t stop now” in a firm tone and go your way.
14. Wear shoes you can run in. If you must wear high heels or formal shoes for work or an event, arrive and leave in sneakers.
15. Keep your head down when riding the subway or bus. Don’t stare. If you must look at something or someone without being noticed, use reflective surfaces (e.g., windows, storefronts, your smartphone, etc.).  Get more advice on public transit safety here.

What are your thoughts?

Do you have any tips or suggestions to add to this? If you must be in the city, do you have any personal rules you abide by? What advice would you give to someone who was going to some type of event or appointment in the city? Are you an urban dweller yourself? Do you disagree with any of Fabian’s advice?

Sound off at the Late Prepper Substack.

About Fabian

Fabian Ommar is a 50-year-old middle-class worker living in São Paulo, Brazil. Far from being the super-tactical or highly trained military survivor type, he is the average joe who since his youth has been involved with self-reliance and outdoor activities and the practical side of balancing life between a big city and rural/wilderness settings. Since the 2008 world economic crisis, he has been training and helping others in his area to become better prepared for the “constant, slow-burning SHTF” of living in a 3rd world country.

Fabian’s ebook, Street Survivalism: A Practical Training Guide To Life In The City , is a practical training method for common city dwellers based on the lifestyle of the homeless (real-life survivors) to be more psychologically, mentally, and physically prepared to deal with the harsh reality of the streets during normal or difficult times. He’s also the author of The Ultimate Survival Gear Handbook.

You can follow Fabian on Instagram @stoicsurvivor

Around 100-150 years ago, the name “hobo” was used to describe a homeless or nomadic person, usually a man, who would hop on freight trains to get from place to place, often to find work. In the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, hobos were a well-known subculture, particularly during the Great Depression.

They wandered from town to town, searching for transitory employment, food, and shelter, leading a nomadic lifestyle. Even though they lived on the periphery of society, hobos upheld values that encouraged independence and respect for one another and the community they worked in.

Hobos were well-known for having a unique culture that included a code of conduct, symbols for communication, and even a yearly convention. The American traveling worker’s folklore has benefited from the songs and stories that hobos frequently wrote about their experiences. Their way of life has also been romanticized in literature, with some seeing it as a symbol of freedom and adventure. There are some interesting things that preppers and survivalists can learn from their lives.

Beyond their cultural and social relevance, hobos are also survivors – a good kind of survivor.

As one can imagine, life as a hobo was challenging and often involved dangers and hardships. However, it was a form of survival for many during a time of economic instability and job scarcity. Hobos didn’t survive on handouts. Instead, they relied on their resourcefulness, the help of their fellow travelers, and the communities they worked in.

In my Street Survival Book, I describe the homeless as “capable survivors.” Regardless of one’s opinion of them – and today, there are many different types of homeless – we must acknowledge the skill set necessary to live on the fringes of society, whether in a city or on the road. It’s something to behold.

Just as with the homeless, there are many different kinds of travelers: hobos, tramps, bums, the Roma, hippies, and so on. Most people consider these types to be connected, but they’re different: a hobo travels and is eager to work; a tramp has a reason to be on the road but tries to avoid employment. And a bum does neither: they stay fixed and rely on the support of others only.

The hobo is subject to the same challenges, hardships, and probations as everyone living on the streets or the road. However, they can be considered unique because of their origins, their history, and, above all, their ethics. Those things make all the difference. Traveling from town to town as a decent person was much easier than a vagrant. Likewise, it’s a lot easier to live in the streets as a decent person.

Also, in my book, I highlighted how decent conduct can impact the standard of living and quality of life of someone living on the streets. After years of trying that lifestyle myself and getting in contact with all kinds of street people, I can affirm that living by the code of the hobo is a superior – much better, safer, and healthier – way than being a bum or worse, an outcast, involved with drugs, alcohol, and crime.

The history of the hobo

Although there are several variations and unclear origins, the name first appeared in the American West around 1890. Some claim it was a shorthand for “homeless boy” or “homeward bound.” Others claim that after the war, Confederate veterans of the Civil War were destitute, impoverished, and hungry, and some even strolled through towns looking for work while carrying a garden hoe. Author and journalist Bill Bryson wrote many nonfiction books on topics in American culture. In his 1998 book “Made In America,” he suggests that the term “hobo” might have originated from the train salutation “Ho, beau!”

By the late 19th century, the heart of Hobohemia was the main drag in Chicago, where train lines radiated out into every corner of America. It was easy to find work in the slaughterhouses, to go west and build a dam, or go east and take a job in a new steel mill to make a buck before you caught the road again.

The hobo would follow the boom-and-bust movements of a shifting economy, searching for transient work like lumbering and mining or seasonal fruit picking in parts of the country without much population, where more hands were needed. That’s how railroads and hobos became integral to the US labor movement, especially in the Pacific Northwest.

The hobo subculture of the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries has parallels with the “Beat Generation” of the 1950s. Both embraced alternative lifestyles and values that challenged mainstream norms. The Beat Generation celebrated nonconformity, spontaneity, and a nomadic lifestyle, much like the hobos before them.

The Beats also traveled across the US, often by hitchhiking or hopping freight trains, searching for personal discovery and broader cultural engagement. Their movement laid the groundwork for the countercultural revolutions of the 1960s, such as the hippies.

A unique period of American history is reflected in the hobo ethical code.

The Hobo Code – an outline of ethical practice and communal etiquette for those living a transient lifestyle – was written in Chicago in 1894 and introduced during the 1889 National Hobo Convention held in St. Louis, Missouri.

Based on mutualism and self-respect, it remains every hobo’s founding document, a simple and forthright set of instructions to live by. It’s a fascinating study in nomadic social order and serves as a reminder that every subculture has customs and guidelines that set expectations for conduct and guarantee the well-being of all participants.

Despite the difficulties of a nomadic lifestyle, the tenets outlined demonstrate a strong sense of camaraderie and respect among hobos and a focus on individual accountability and dignity. The code emphasizes the value of honoring the law, the environment, and the towns they travel through.

THE HOBO CODE

1. Decide your own life; don’t let another person run or rule you.
2. When in town, always respect the local law and officials, and try to be a gentleman at all times.
3. Don’t take advantage of someone who is in a vulnerable situation, locals, or other hobos.
4. Always try to find work, even if temporary, and always seek out jobs nobody wants. By doing so, you not only help a business along but ensure employment should you return to that town again.
5. When no employment is available, make your own work by using your added talents at crafts.
6. Do not allow yourself to become a stupid drunk and set a bad example for the locals’ treatment of other hobos.
7. When wandering in town, respect handouts and do not wear them out; another hobo will be coming along who will need them as badly, if not worse than you.
8. Always respect nature; do not leave garbage where you are wandering.
9. If in a community jungle, always pitch in and help.
10. Try to stay clean and boil up wherever possible.
11. When traveling, ride your train respectfully. Take no personal chances, cause no problems with the operating crew or host railroad, and act like an extra crew member.
12. Do not cause problems in a train yard; another hobo will be coming along who will need passage through that yard.
13. Do not allow other hobos to molest children; expose all molesters to authorities – they are the worst garbage to infest any society.
14. Help all runaway children and try to induce them to return home.
15. Help your fellow hobos whenever and wherever needed; you may need their help someday.
16. If present at a hobo court and you have testimony, give it. Whether for or against the accused, your voice counts!

The hobo tradition and lifestyle lives on.

The hobos still have a National Hobo Convention, held on the second weekend of every August since 1900 in the town of Britt, Iowa. It’s organized by the local Chamber of Commerce and known throughout the town as the annual “Hobo Day” celebration. It’s the largest gathering of hobos, rail-riders, and tramps, who gather to celebrate the American traveling worker.

The Symbols

The exclusive, secret language based on symbols to communicate with other hobos coming to town about threats, opportunities, and lots more, reveals how sophisticated and established is the hobo culture. That alone separates them from any other kind of wanderer or street type and is in no small part responsible for the enduring tradition of the hobo.

“This brilliant, hieroglyphic-like language appeared random enough for busy people to ignore, but perfectly distinctive for hobos to translate. The code assigned circles and arrows for general directions like, where to find a meal or the best place to camp. Hashtags signaled danger ahead, like bad water or an inhospitable town.” [SOURCE]

A similar strategy is used by people in various SHTF, from wars to invasions, and even among trekkers and backpackers. Sometimes it’s more discreet (for OPSEC reasons), others it’s more open. But the principle remains, and it’s another unique facet of the hobo culture.

Final words.

I’m a common citizen with family, friends, work, and a home. However, between my passion for trekking, backpacking, and camping in wild and rural settings, my days and nights in the streets among the homeless, I confess to have an attraction to the nomadic, independent lifestyle. Maybe that’s why I keep going away from time to time.

I also have a passion for history, and find the hobo a fascinating part of American culture. They exist in many, if not most, other countries as well, and their incredible stories are accounts of a different era, reflecting wisdom, tradition, and the true spirit of survivalism.

For further reference, here are some books that can be found on Amazon and other outlets.

• The Hobo: The Sociology of the Homeless Man, by Nels Anderson and Robert E. Park
• The Autobiography Of a Super Tramp: The Life of William Henry Davies, by W. H. Davies
• The Road, by Jack London

The hobo lifestyle, code of conduct, work-based ethics, and system of communication were all forged in practice during a very hard and challenging period, which means it’s proven to work and thus can provide valuable lessons for crises and other SHTFs.

Do you know of any other lessons we can take from the hobo subculture? Do you have any stories about hobos to share? Let’s discuss it in the comments section.

Leave your thoughts about this article on our Late Prepper Substack.

About the Author

Fabian Ommar is a 50-year-old middle-class worker living in São Paulo, Brazil. Far from being the super-tactical or highly trained military survivor type, he is the average joe who since his youth has been involved with self-reliance and outdoor activities and the practical side of balancing life between a big city and rural/wilderness settings. Since the 2008 world economic crisis, he has been training and helping others in his area to become better prepared for the “constant, slow-burning SHTF” of living in a 3rd world country.

Fabian’s ebook, Street Survivalism: A Practical Training Guide To Life In The City , is a practical training method for common city dwellers based on the lifestyle of the homeless (real-life survivors) to be more psychologically, mentally, and physically prepared to deal with the harsh reality of the streets during normal or difficult times. He’s also the author of The Ultimate Survival Gear Handbook.

(Article cross-posted from The Organic Prepper)

The team in charge of communication installations in both contracts is one such player. They’re a small boutique operation specializing in commercial (i.e., civil) comm systems for tactical applications and challenging environments. We’ve worked together before during the pandemic when demand surged.

This time, besides the usual, I participated in a workshop to catch up with the most recent tech available for use in future projects, including a rundown on the latest generation of seamless cross-band radios (SAT/LOS/BLOS networks + INE and FMV capability). It’s state-of-the-art stuff that goes beyond the typical comms fare, worth an article on itself.

They also let me test a satellite phone and a satellite messenger for a couple of months.

I’m not a total stranger to sat tech, having used sat phones and trackers briefly in the past for sailing and exploration treks. But despite being curious and into various outdoor activities for most of my life, I’ve never actually given it much thought nor felt compelled to invest in one for personal use.

Nevertheless, I wouldn’t pass up on the opportunity to give it a good try, especially with the professional support being offered. I took both with me on backpacking trips around remote areas, and the experience changed my mind.

Here, I share my findings and considerations in civil satellite communication, not for bunkers, adventures, or professional work, but for prepping and survival applications.

A brief history of satellite communications.

Those with a smidge of curiosity might want to check this short article on the topic. It’s well worth the read not only because civil and military satellite communication is one of the main pillars of modern civilization but above all for the fantastic tales of engineering, electronic, and aeronautical achievements presented.

It opens with a mind-blowing 1945 paper from a certain Arthur C. Clarke, then a 27-year-old Royal Air Force officer, who proposed the idea of geostationary satellites (i.e., moving at the same speed as Earth’s rotation, thus fixed position relative to a point on its surface), “… so an antenna on the ground could be pointed to that satellite without having to track its position.” He devised that twelve years before Sputnik was launched in 1957 (as a science fiction and Arthur C. Clarke fan, I confess not knowing that until recently. What an incredibly visionary mind).

The space race between the U.S. and the Soviet Union put a lot of satellites into orbit in the following decades (1967 still holds the record for launches, 143 or one every 2-1/2 days). During the 80s and 90s, computing science fast-tracked aeronautics and communication technologies, while more recent breakthroughs in electronics and batteries made compact, energy-efficient devices viable.

Private companies jumped in to cater for a growing public, competing and driving prices down. Though still relatively expensive to purchase and, mainly, operate (when compared to cell phones and other alternatives) 2-way satellite communication is today more accessible than ever, with two dozen providers offering various options and plans.

Sat comm remains a niche, with businesses and corporations making a large part of clients. Now, it could be seeing the start of another boom sparked by Elon Musk’s Starlink, among other initiatives (more on that below).

Satellite phones

Also called sat phones, these devices are used by enthusiasts and professionals traveling, exploring, and working in remote lands and waters. Think of deep wilderness/desert exploration, high mountain treks, polar expeditions, power lines, oil platforms, oceanic sailing, etc.

Sat phones are touted to have more robust and stable signals than their cell counterparts, which rely on a network of short-range strategically positioned towers to relay the radio signal. My iPhone 11 went off-grid quickly, going through backcountry terrain and remote beaches, even in some dirt roads inside parks and rural areas – places where the Iridium and SpotX had full signal.

The mobile network system is a marvel but not without drawbacks. Low-density population regions (rural, semi-rural, and wild) tend to have poor to zero network coverage. “Shadow” zones are common. Relay towers can become overwhelmed, fail, be hacked, destroyed, or suffer attacks and blackouts. Satellite phones have limitations, but overall, they’re safer and less vulnerable.

My experience with a sat phone

Iridium Satellite Networks provide satellite services for voice, data, messaging, and tracking (people, assets, and cargo). Based in McLean, VA, its network comprises 66 LEO satellites. I got a 9555, the middle or “value” model. Iridium’s line has a basic push-to-talk (the Extreme, more of a walkie-talkie) and the top 9575 Extreme, built for harsh conditions with live GPS tracking/monitoring and other fancy features.

The 9995 is a compact and lightweight handheld device (for a satellite phone). It reminisced of those early, blocky cell phones of the 90s. At 253g on my scale, it’s still twice heavier than my iPhone 11. The 9555 is similar in form and shape to an HT, with a small dotted backlit monochrome LCD screen and soft rubber pads that are easy to use even with gloves.

The phone has a protruding stubby antenna that reaches 6″ when extended and pivots to stay pointed at the sky when used – a dead giveaway of a satellite phone if there’s one. Since mine was borrowed, I didn’t use the memory (100 entries), instead dialing to make the calls. International and local codes must be inserted before the receiver’s number. Overall, the operation is intuitive, with easy-to-navigate menus.

The 2200mAH battery lasted almost one-and-a-half day on a full charge, with about six or seven brief (5-10 minutes) conversations scattered throughout. That’s better than the advertised 30 hours on standby or 4 hours of conversation, perhaps due to the mild temperatures faced during the period. They provided me unlimited airtime, but since I’m not given to long conversations over the phone, I only used it for test talks.

In any case, that’s plenty for a rescue or other emergency, especially if it’s turned off when not in use to save battery. For extended or frequent conversations, though, extra batteries and chargers are necessary –  unpractical for someone carrying a backpack with essentials for an adventure but a non-issue if used at home during a grid-down or other SHTF.

It charged from my compact 25W solar panel using a UBS-to-jack adapter, which I use to recharge my HTs when camping or trekking. Likewise, a 5000mAH power bank will top it a couple of times. My 9555 came with a DC and a car charger. Aftermarket, higher-capacity batteries are available for purchase.

I also had the opportunity to make a few calls with an Isatphone Pro from Inmarsat while on site. It’s a blocky unit, a few grams heavier than the 9555, and sporting a more powerful battery (100 hours on standby and up to 8 of conversation) plus a few extras. The Inmarsat satellite network is said to be more robust than Iridium’s, though I didn’t notice a difference in the quality and stability of calls between it and the Iridium.

SpotX: The working class alternative?

Satellite messengers offer one or two-way text communication to keep you in touch with civilization or to get help in an emergency. It’s not as practical nor functional as voice or data, but it has some upsides, such as lower cost, more extended durability, and less bulk.

Spot is a subdivision of Globalstar, a company offering satellite asset tracking and monitoring services for transportation fleets (another massive market for satcom).

Spot offers three products aimed squarely at the outdoor/adventure/exploration public: the Trace, a small, light (3.1oz) and basic tracker; one step above, there’s the Gen4, also a tracker but offering more features such as motion activation (to save battery), SOS button, and emergency rescue coordination.

Finally, there’s the top SpotX, which I tested. It’s a proper, standalone 2-way communication device that allows exchanging messages (SMS or email) with any cell phone number or email address anywhere in the world. It reminisces the Blackberry, with its large LCD screen and built-in QWERTY keyboard. The unit is reinforced to withstand the rigors of outdoor conditions and rough use.

The SpotX also has waypoint navigation and can link to smartphones by Bluetooth using a dedicated app (Android and iOS). That won’t make voice calls nor access internet though, only enable typing/reading and sending/receiving text messages using the phone’s touch screen instead of the integrated keyboard. The SpotX doesn’t transmit photos or videos either.

Signal is determined mainly by the network, which, as mentioned, is provided by Globalstar. Coverage is good in North and South America and Europe. The SpotX can run on a full charge for up to 240 hours or ten days, something desirable in the real world. Mine still had some juice after a week of use. Weight is 7oz. (198g) and charging is done through a mini-USB port so any charger, a power bank, or a solar panel can be used.

Cost: a quick breakdown

Please note prices, plans, and conditions can vary according to provider and region; I’m just providing an overview.

Each 9555 runs for about $1,000. It’s possible to subscribe to a postpaid (monthly or yearly plan) or opt for a prepaid SIM card. Both incur activation and sometimes carrying fees as well. It’s small but adds, and early termination fees may also apply to postpaid yearly or monthly plans.

Postpaid plans start at 5 or 10 minutes at around $50-80, up to 500 or 1,000 minutes for about $400-500. These offer greater flexibility and the possibility of utilizing additional minutes if needed (for an average of $1.50 per minute).

Prepaid plans also offer various options for a lower rate per minute but are still relatively expensive. Even though airtime is limited to pre-purchased minutes, one advantage is being able to “purchase once and activate service only when needed.” Pre-purchased minutes also expire, with 6 or 12 months of validity, depending on the plan.

Who’s it for?

When analyzing the value and effectiveness of satellite communication for prepping, we should consider the context and a few other factors, including the cost. How critical is effective communication for your preparation strategy or plan? How does it compare to other alternatives? Does it fit into your budget? How’s the performance in the urban environment?

Objectively, usefulness might be limited except for those who live (or work) in a remote area, o a region subject to frequent disasters or grid-downs.

For someone investing a million dollars (or more) in a bunker, a set of sat phones brimming with unlimited airtime may be chump change. For most ordinary people, having a sat phone “just in case SHTF” may represent a considerable investment for occasional use, especially compared to cell phones, HAM radios, WTs, and other options.

Yes, it works well in cities, but reception is affected by constructions and vegetation and won’t work well between tall buildings. Much less indoors, as the antenna needs a line-of-sight with satellites. In parks and other open areas, fine. I could sometimes connect from windows and balconies, though the reception was unstable. Sat phones have connections to external antennas to be installed in apartments, vehicles, and even boats or airplanes.

The point is, if the infrastructure gets affected by whatever in your city, you’ll be able to connect with the world, that’s for sure.

Is it worth it?

As with most cases, the answer is “it depends”on several things. It depends on one’s budget, location, context, and strategies and plans for emergencies. There’s no question it’s essential to be able to communicate with others inside or outside of an affected region to coordinate efforts or actions, relay news, and so on. A portable satellite phone is the top solution if you need a reliable, flexible, fully functional emergency comm system.

A 2-way messenger like the SpotX or one of its competitors takes a close second, presenting an attractive alternative for a reasonable cost. It’s limited to written messages but quite robust and versatile. The focus should be on the capacity to communicate efficiently worldwide in case the grid goes down, which it accomplishes pretty well.

Satcom alternatives

That’s a topic of great importance, covered extensively in preparedness and survival communities. I’m a certified HAM hobbyist and have testified to the efficacy of radios during some real-life emergencies here on TOP. I believe every prepper should invest in this skill, bar none.

However, it can’t be denied that a sat phone or messenger is the most reliable way to communicate worldwide in case of a grid-down or other SHTF, or to stay in contact with civilization no matter what. Other than that, there’s always something new being developed and offered so here are some attractive options:

• Apple has created an emergency satellite messaging service that works without WiFi or cell signal and allows the Find My app to share locations with other people via satellite for remote tracking. The service is free for two years after phone activation, but it’s available on iPhone 14 only.
• Elon Musk’s Starlink is making waves in civil satellite communication as well. It requires relatively bulky equipment and isn’t yet available in all countries. However, the service is expanding quickly and offers a pretty attractive mobile option called Starlink R.V. (a.k.a. ROAM) for those on the move. Speeds are impressive and connection stable.
• Iridium’s Go! is a portable, compact hotspot (antenna + router) that allows connection of up to five devices simultaneously for high-speed internet access anywhere on the globe. It’s IP65 rated, powered by a rechargeable battery, and has a SOS button, among other features. Go! runs for about 20% less than a 9555, though it operates with the same phone plans, making it equally expensive to maintain. However, connecting up to five devices and enabling calls from tethered smartphones improves the cost-benefit ratio.
• Garmin, ACR Bivy Stick, and other new satellite trackers offer messengers similar to the SpotX, but without the integrated keypad: they link via Bluetooth to allow for typing, sending, and reading messages on one’s smartphone. They’re smaller, lighter, and since most people carry their phones everywhere nowadays, they’re a hit among the outdoor crowd. Some models can switch seamlessly between satellite and WiFi when a signal is available, saving airtime.

Final thoughts

Technology keeps evolving fast, with devices shrinking and becoming more powerful, efficient, and reliable, and that’s a boon. Size, weight, and power (SWaP) optimized devices are the future of personal communication, as these are even more critical for tactical applications. Mass adoption and competition can bring satellite service prices further down, maybe to the levels of their mobile counterparts.

As it is, the cost of functional 2-way satellite communication (phone, internet, and messaging) still runs a bit on the high side to be practical for everyday use, and even more so as a backup/standby “just in case” (at least for most people.) However, since that’s a personal decision, perhaps renting a sat phone before parting with the cash is definitely a sensible strategy to find out.

What about you? Do you have a satellite phone? Are you interested in trying one out? Why or why not? What are your thoughts about satellite communications? Do you think it’s a good addition to your emergency comms plan?

Let’s discuss it in the comments section.

About Fabian

Fabian Ommar is a 50-year-old middle-class worker living in São Paulo, Brazil. Far from being the super-tactical or highly trained military survivor type, he is the average joe who since his youth has been involved with self-reliance and outdoor activities and the practical side of balancing life between a big city and rural/wilderness settings. Since the 2008 world economic crisis, he has been training and helping others in his area to become better prepared for the “constant, slow-burning SHTF” of living in a 3rd world country.

Fabian’s ebook, Street Survivalism: A Practical Training Guide To Life In The City , is a practical training method for common city dwellers based on the lifestyle of the homeless (real-life survivors) to be more psychologically, mentally, and physically prepared to deal with the harsh reality of the streets during normal or difficult times. He’s also the author of The Ultimate Survival Gear Handbook.

You can follow Fabian on Instagram @stoicsurvivor

Thanks to advancements in technology, materials, and manufacturing, the last few decades have witnessed profound changes in both lifestyle and consumption habits. Every homes used to have a handyman. Now, they largely don’t.

Until the late 1980s and early 90s, the majority of household items and appliances were built from metal, wood, and rubber. They were also designed to be more easily serviceable. Polymers had been around for over a century, and plastic was gaining favor amongst consumers. But the single-use plastics we’re all familiar with today were yet to enter the market.

Therefore, food and beverages were served in ceramic pottery, sold in glass pots, tin cans, jars, and bottles, and carried everywhere in wood crates. Toys were made from tin or wood. Meat, bread, veggies, and other fresh stuff came wrapped and taken home in paper sheets and bags. 

Recycling on an industrial scale was not yet a thing.

However, “everyday” recycling was commonplace. Containers, vessels, and many other non-consumable items were reused, repurposed, exchanged, or rebuilt into something else. Even nails and wrapping paper saw multiple uses before being thrown out. It was common for wearables and appliances to get fixed or reconditioned. 

Electric motors got rewired, furniture repainted and redressed, shoes re-soled, and broken or worn parts replaced. With that, washing machines, blenders, and toasters worked for decades, sometimes even passed down the generations. My parents have a beautiful, sky-blue 1960 vintage fridge that belonged to Granny. It has a freezer and still works. That was the era.

The household handyman: a near-extinct species?

My grandpa had an entire room full of shelves stacked with all kinds of stuff. I mean, all kinds, really: radio valves, fuses, canvas bags, leather pieces, circuit breakers and switches, wires, pressing iron resistances, all sorts of bolts and nuts. He’d stock up on new and recovered bits and parts to use again in domestic repairs and keep the house going. 

It was a very common custom back then, but it sadly is not as frequent anymore. As mentioned above, the world has changed, and so have the skillsets necessary to deal with everyday situations. I suspect today, Grandpa would be called a “hoarder” and end up as an attraction in some TV show. 

This is not a throwback to ancient ways, nor a critical look at modern life.

It’s just what it is. But it’s also a fact that being a jack of all trades can prove highly advantageous during recessions and depressions. When people have less money (or none), the price of stuff rises, or goods and services become rarer or even disappear, the value of things changes a lot. 

In poorer countries, rural areas, and the countryside, people still need to be more hands-on if they want to keep everything running. Knowing how to use tools and being minimally able to repair, create, improvise, and solve practical problems is quite reassuring, no matter what or when.

Complexity and planned obsolescence are built into today’s society.

Nowadays, a great part of appliances and electronics are ultra-advanced and complex, built from thousands of customized, oftentimes tiny, and sensitive parts. These are made-to-order and supplied from tens of different makers around the world, making replacements not always readily available or easily sourced. 

For instance, the same year/model LED TV can have a variety of similar yet incompatible boards, chips, or other bits. Ditto for cars and other objects. It’s wild. Also, the cost-benefit of the repair may not compensate when compared to buying a new (and probably updated) one. 

Still, there’s a lot that can be repaired, restored, or refurbished around any house.

Clothes, shoes, toys, ornaments, drapes, parts of plumbing and electrical systems, furniture, lighting, and lots more. Simpler appliances, even some advanced ones depend on the problems and the skills required to solve them. 

There’s also a lot that can be built or made at home, too, for those with available tooling, time, and inclination. This can be turned into a livelihood, side job, or part-time job to generate extra income during hard times. Even if taken as a hobby, these skills can be used to save money and keep stuff working around the house. 

Getting started.

The suggested kits and skills below range from easy/basic to complex/advanced. As with everything else, the sky is the limit. Do your research to invest wisely. Some items repeat in different kits, though there is no need to buy anything in double.

Build the kits and skills you deem important, also considering the available budget and space. Some stuff isn’t found as easily anymore. This could get worse shortly, so perhaps getting the stuff you want/need now is a good move. I’m working on that myself, by the way. 

Lubrication kit

Dry, penetrating, thin and thick oils (mineral, synthetic, vegetal, Teflon (PTFE), and petrol based), vaseline.

Lots of stuff in the house, cars, and other objects need periodic lubrication to perform well, reduce the chance of breakage, and extend their lifespan. Keeping a few different oils and grease types around has a low cost. These can be used in a wide range of applications. 

Usually, these tend to last a long time, but correct storage is the best way to ensure chemicals don’t break down or evaporate quickly. Also, sprays can be practical but lose pressure with time, so I prefer lubricants in bottles, tubes, or cans whenever that’s possible. 

Sewing kit

Scissor, tape, pencil, seam ripper, various types and sizes of needles, pins, assorted threads, buttons, snaps, and hooks.

I admit not knowing or even having much patience to knit or crochet, but I enjoy sewing and performing all sorts of repairs in my clothing and outdoor gear quite a bit. It’s the easiest and most accessible skill and renders immediate benefits. A small sewing machine can add quality, consistency, and agility if you plan on doing this often or for an extra buck. 

Gluing kit (smaller repairs)

Plastic molding, silicone, various types of glue (white, contact, instant, vinyl, epoxy, resins, etc.), assorted tapes (duct, masking, vent tape, filament tape, carpet tape).

This is one of my favorite and most used kits. Being able to mold and properly glue parts means a lot can be fixed and kept in use. Each material demands a specific type of glue to both be effective and avoid screwing up the material or finishing. 

Prior surface treatment and thorough cleaning of parts are important, too. Special agents can be used to reinforce fixed parts. Epoxy resins, liquid plastic, and molded plastic are a few that can play that part. Stuff like Bondic, Plast-Aid, and Sugru is useful for a myriad of smaller applications. 

Leather kit

Mallets and hammers, punches (various hole forms/sizes), setter or anvil, sewing chisels and lacing awls, roller, rivet setting tool (and assorted rivets), leather sewing threads.

A basic leather kit will allow the servicing and repair of leather, canvas, and other tough fabric pieces like shoes, belts, bags, backpacks, tents, etc. This is something that tends to increase in value during a crisis, and there’s always a market for some items that may be worth investing in.

Locksmith kit

Slim Jims, lock picks, wedges, jigglers (for autos), and a few long-reach tools, pliers.

Even before becoming a prepper, I did a locksmith course and bought my kit. Throughout the years, I also learned a few tricks in the streets. Anyway, being able to open locks and doors is a real asset, not just in SHTF but anytime, anywhere. And it’s not rocket science. In fact, it’s actually easy and quite fun. 

Bicycle kit

Foot pump, tire levers, tube patching kit (multiple patches and glue tubes), chain breaking and fixing tool, Allen (2, 4, 5, and 6mm), flat and Phillips screwdrivers of assorted sizes. Extra tires, chains, cables, bike oil, and grease.

Racing bikes (road, MTB, or whatever) are advanced and much harder to service. More simple ones can still be robust and practical yet easier to maintain. The most common issues are flat tires, broken or worn chains and transmission parts, fraying cables, and worn-out brake pads. Having some extras can keep a bike running for years for little cost and minimal work. 

Electrical kit

Solder iron, precision tools (pliers, screwdrivers, etc.), working tray, magnifier with light, extra parts, sockets, electrical tape, and heat shrink tubing.

Just understanding the principles and main components of an electrical system or installation and being able to find the issues is a good start. 

However, everyone should have a basic kit to perform minor or temporary fixes, at the very least. Replacing damaged or broken wires and plugs, tripping circuit breakers, short circuits, dead outlets, and switches is easy and simple. Parts are easy to find, too. 

(And don’t forget to figure out how to quickly evacuate with your kit! Check out our free QUICKSTART Guide to emergency evacuations for more information.)

Plumbing kit

Hacksaw, propane torch, pipe wrenches, metal and plastic files, adjustable jaw wrench, plunger (Plumber’s Best Friend), tubing cutter, closet auger (to clear clogged toilets), plumber’s tape.

This is perhaps one of the most useful to have, both for home repairs or to make an extra buck. Plumbing issues are common and frequent, regardless of technological advancements. Lots can be done without the need to call a specialist. Which, while commonly available, isn’t always ready and much less cheap these days. 

Having some extra tubing, connectors, and other small parts, as well as glue, soldering material, and other bits commonly found in your installations (and others, if you plan to work with this), is also a good idea.

Glass kit

Glass cutter and pliers, suction cups, bottle cutter, anti-cut gloves with a gripping surface, glass repair kit.

A few simple tools make repairing and repurposing glass items easy, clean, convenient, and safe. Also great for craftwork for selling. Glass repair resins and kits make repairing cracked windows and windshields a breeze. 

Metal kit

Tin snips, angle grinders, tungsten carbide cut burrs, bolt and cable cutters, rivet tools and assorted rivets, and drill bits.

Another simple yet useful kit with a few items to turn manipulating metal parts like sheets, ducts, tubes, and others is rather easy and convenient. Great for repairs in HVAC systems, for instance. A few sharpening stones and metal polishers round out a kit to keep knives, scissors, and other metal cutting tools in good shape. 

Electronics kit

Solder iron, precision tools (pliers, screwdrivers, etc.), working tray, magnifier with light, extra, compressed air can, parts.

Smartphones and other modern appliances require special tools, parts, and skills. Advanced services can only be performed in a lab, but some services are more accessible than most people think. 

Around here, it’s common for folks who lose their jobs to learn to replace screens, batteries, speakers, and other basic computer, laptop and smartphone maintenance tasks. Then they invest in a kit to offer services in the streets and small bodegas and generate income. 

Other types of electronics can be repaired, too. When my LED TV stopped working, I opened it, identified the damaged main board, purchased a new one online, and replaced it. I do the same all the time to printers, keyboards, PCs, blenders, and other stuff in my house and office. It takes some patience and work but saves money and keeps stuff functioning.

Woodwork kit

Measuring tools (bevel, framing square, steel tape, etc.), cutting tools (rip and crosscut saw, coping saw, hacksaw, diagonal cutter), shaping tools (chisels, round and flat rasps, scrapers, etc.), various hammers, saws, nails, screws, carving kit.

We used to have mandatory woodwork classes in school. It became an elective class and finally became non-available. Nowadays, one must attend a specific course. I’d say becoming comfortable with basic woodworking tasks is a good idea and a great hobby to relax and make some money too. 

Woodworking tools and utensils are many, and decent-quality ones are not cheap. More elaborated woodwork requires precision power tooling and advanced skills. Invest according to your objectives, but aim for at least a few essential tools to measure, cut, drill, and shape, to perform emergency repairs and improvisations with wood items, and grow from there.

Fiber molding kit (larger repairs)

Carbon fiber, glass fiber, aramid cloth laminating epoxy resin and hardener, PVA mold release agent, latex gloves, brushes, and cups.

Dealing with composites – carbon, glass, or other types of fiber molding and laminating – may look to some like black magic. But it’s not complicated nor expensive, requiring few tools and easily found materials. 

It’s worth investing in because it has many useful (and profitable) applications, the most common ones being fixing/repairing and building parts (e.g., car or motorcycle accessories) and all types of sports equipment (fishing rods, tent and trekking poles, hockey sticks, bicycle frames and parts, sailing masts, etc.). 

Advanced or performance/aesthetic molding and laminating require specific tools and techniques. However, the market for carbon fiber items is huge and high-value, so it may compensate.

General “home” kit

An all-purpose combination wrench set is an ace. 

It contains the most common types and sizes of tools (plus some odd ones) that can be used to assemble/disassemble furniture and appliances and perform various repairs around the house, vehicles, and others. No need to go fancy and spend a fortune, but aim for something of good quality to last a few years of intense use. 

A Dremel is an excellent multi-tool to have at home. It’s useful to keep tools well conditioned, perform precision work to fabricate or improvise parts, cut, drill, remove broken screws, and much more. Electric or cordless impact and hammer drills and screwdrivers also add versatility, efficiency, and convenience.

Safety kit

Assorted masks, gloves, eye protection (goggles, eye washers), aprons, a hard hat, and steel-toed boots. 

Safety is priority #1. Always use PPE to deal with more hazardous jobs and items. Focus on what you’re doing to avoid accidents. Be careful with cutting tools, gases, chemicals, and flammables. Whenever possible, have a helper or spotter when performing dangerous tasks. 

Bonus kit

Books, manuals, PDFs, prints, links, videos, and tutorials. 

Don’t forget to build a “skills” kit. Attending courses and taking classes (or e-classes) is another option. Practice doesn’t make perfect, but make advancements, and no one turns into a handyman or woman overnight. Learning is part of the process and never goes to waste. At least have the means to study and consult when performing a job, so keep a few how-to sources at hand. 

Other information and knowledge sources to start digging for information and gear or parts at the same time are Amazon and eBay. There are also endless DIY forums and blogs on the internet. 

The DYI community is as engaged and helpful community that can greatly benefit preppers.

All you have to do is ask for help.

Many manufacturers, such as iFixIt, provide numerous blogs, manuals, and how-to guides, along with the equipment and materials on offer. Some companies also have customer service to help find the materials and other inputs necessary to proceed with the repairs or fabrications.

But what are your thoughts? Do you have your repair supplies organized into kits? Are there other tools you’d add to this list? Tell us in the comments.

(Want uninterrupted access to The Organic Prepper? Check out our paid-subscription newsletter.)

About the Author

Fabian Ommar is a 50-year-old middle-class worker living in São Paulo, Brazil. Far from being the super-tactical or highly trained military survivor type, he is the average joe who since his youth has been involved with self-reliance and outdoor activities and the practical side of balancing life between a big city and rural/wilderness settings. Since the 2008 world economic crisis, he has been training and helping others in his area to become better prepared for the “constant, slow-burning SHTF” of living in a 3rd world country.

Fabian’s ebook, Street Survivalism: A Practical Training Guide To Life In The City , is a practical training method for common city dwellers based on the lifestyle of the homeless (real-life survivors) to be more psychologically, mentally, and physically prepared to deal with the harsh reality of the streets during normal or difficult times. He’s also the author of The Ultimate Survival Gear Handbook.

You can follow Fabian on Instagram @stoicsurvivor

Article cross-posted from The Organic Prepper.

I’ll start this by saying I’m against violence. 

By that, I mean gratuitous violence because I acknowledge it is much part of life, the natural state of things. But being peaceful is different than being harmless. In fact, the most peaceful people I know are also the most harmful.

 Throughout my entire life, I have always strived for conflict avoidance and de-escalation. I’m constantly training my awareness skills and studying violence and crime to detect and avoid it as much as possible. Not being there is Rule #1 in survival.

But we must be ready to fight violence with violence if necessary.

That’s Rule #2: Be prepared to use violence. I have no shame admitting that I run first. But I also practice martial arts, combat, and tactical shooting, among other self-defense techniques.

Because violence can be unavoidable sometimes, and we can only focus on what we can control (that’s ourselves). The rest is not really up to us. The world is dangerous, and there’s a lot of evil out there, even when things are normal. It’s obviously much worse when SHTF, as we know.

But that doesn’t mean we should employ violence in all violent situations.

Knowing when it’s necessary is critical (it comes with studying violence and training). It’s sort of a Catch-22, but it’s important to understand that the consequences of violence are, more often than not, worse and far-reaching than non-violent options.

Besides potential consequences, there’s always some risk involved in any direct engagement. We may know how a situation starts but can’t say how it’s going to end. Ever.

Surviving is the goal. Winning is for the ring. This leads to Rule #3: Violence should be the last resort. Even if we’re ready to deal with it, we should do everything in our power to detect, avoid, defuse, de-escalate, or escape. 

When the enemy picks the time and place.

Sometimes violence comes to us. That’s when weapons and training can be an asset. It’s reassuring to know that you can at least handle yourself to some level if things go awry.

Firearms top most prepper’s list. It’s the #1 weapon of choice for SHTF. Rifles and pistols are great to have at any time, and certainly more if the world goes Mad Max. I love shooting and competing as much as anyone.

But there are intermediary levels of SHTF to prepare for.

When handguns aren’t a viable option or the most appropriate for a situation, urban weapons can provide a tactical advantage for personal protection and self-defense.

By carrying these weapons and being efficient at using them, and also knowing about them and how they work, we can improve the odds of avoiding, deflecting, or neutralizing these weapons, in case they get used against us.

This is what good LEOs everywhere do.

Because it’s part of their job to contend with thugs and criminals that use improvised and adapted weapons all the time. And no one wants to get caught by surprise. 

In fact, much of what I’m presenting here was learned from cops and other security agents, experts, and instructors during my street survival outings, interviews, direct training, and other situations. The following general tips also come courtesy directly from them. 

Before we dive in, here’s the skinny of urban weapons conduct. Take note, if carrying one of these (or any other) is in your plans: Beware the rules of the streets. Study the law. Don’t flaunt. Practice constantly. And keep the concept of deterrence always in mind. 

Deterrence 

Weapons are items designed to inflict physical (body) damage or act as deterrents to discourage someone from doing something bad or violent against us.

Selco talks about how this works during SHTF in his many books, and whether or not you think a civil war or other total breakdowns may take place where you live, it’s worth knowing about deterrence at least as mental preparation. 

Know the Law

Federal, state, and municipal. This is very important, for obvious reasons. Governments and authorities are becoming more and more strict, even though public safety has been decaying with the passing of time. 

Don’t just do a quick first page on what’s allowed or not in your town. These things change all the time, frequently without notice. Go deeper, and check what is being practiced out there and what the authorities will allow, tolerate, or enforce. 

You may be surprised that some items forbidden by legislation are not actually enforced, and vice versa. I’m not telling you to carry this or that, just to wise up. In the end, if something happens and you’re brought to justice, it will be taken by the letter of the law no matter what the street practice.

Street fighting rules

Talking about the street, the only thing to know about street fighting and urban violence, in general, is that there are no rules. Everything is game to incapacitate your opponent (temporarily or definitely) and escape intact. Know that because your opponent already does.

Be grey

In perhaps 99% of the situations in life, being discreet, restrained, and low-key is a good thing. When we’re carrying a self-defense weapon, this is even more important.

Practice beforehand 

Constant practice of carrying, deploying, and operating is advisable. That’s no different than firearms or any other weapon, really. The goal is to become as smooth, as quick, and as efficient as possible. 

Surprise and efficiency are big factors in any combat. It’s possible to revert the situation by surprising an attacker and being skilled. This takes practice, and practice, and more practice. 

Do some testing, too, to see if it will hold and perform or break on the first strike. The worse time to learn is when you actually need it.

(Looking for more information on emergency evacuations? Check out our free QUICKSTART Guide.)

The following items are so commonplace that they should pass unsuspected in most places.

There are others. This is just a primer. The idea is turning everyday, ubiquitous, unsuspected items into force multipliers, so creativity and improvisation play a big role. 

But if deployed efficiently and timely, these improvised urban weapons can help achieve the ultimate goal of buying time and distance from an attacker (to escape) or get us out of a dangerous situation. 

Bic lighter

I got this tip from a friend who works as a bouncer in a downtown club where the lowlife gather. He applied a choke hold on a guy who had just slapped someone on the dance floor. The fellow lit a Bic on his forearm to break the grip. He’s 6’2” and strong as a bull, but the intense burning made him back off instantly. Took him a few seconds to realize WTF was that while the guy ran away. It’s effective over fabric as well (but you know the potential implications, so beware).

Superglue

I saw this one myself during a construction job I was supervising here: a guy stopped two coworkers who attacked him using a tube of superglue. There was an argument, one of the guys pulled a small blade, and this fellow gushed superglue all over them. It was a mess, but the result was immediate. 

This is a tricky one to pull out, but when I thought about it, I saw the potential and some advantages: 1) Superglue is easy to find; 2) It’s above suspicion; 3) It’s perhaps the last thing someone (police or not) would think is being carried as a “weapon”; 4) It’s unexpected; 5) It’s very effective and quick in incapacitating attackers without being fatal, which may come handy if the case is brought to justice. 

As always, there are some cons: it’s not as easy or fast to deploy. It must also be used in a way, so we don’t worsen our own situation by “gluing” ourselves to our attacker or something else. But I can imagine this being used stealthily in some close-body situations, though, with the attacker not realizing it until he’s stuck. 

Padlock

Small, inconspicuous, legal, heavy, and powerful. Padlocks have been used as weapons for ages. Tied to a bandana, a lanyard, or even a t-shirt, they become a slingshot with tremendous reach and blunt force. Square types have sharp and pointy edges, making them dangerous and effective if used as a swinging weapon. 

It can be thrown onto someone to gain a few precious seconds to allow an escape. Padlocks and chains have been used by urban cyclists for decades, meaning it’s time and street-tested. A hefty lanyard can replace the bandana. Cons: Bulk and weight mostly. 

Aerosol (hair spray or other)

You’ve probably seen aerosols used as flamethrowers in movies. This has been used in real life too. Most aerosols are also highly flammable, and some are highly irritating too. 

It requires a lighter or other ignition source, which all but prevents its use in surprise attacks on the street. It’s also relatively short-reaching, though no one will take a chance when a flame is being thrown around. But no one will make an issue of someone carrying a can of hair spray either.

Cork pullers

Twist-and-pull corkscrew pullers may not be the most efficient when it comes to opening wine bottles, but they are incredibly effective when used as a weapon. They are a “civil” version of the push dagger, a.k.a. knuckle knife, a very popular choice in the U.S. in the 19th century, but certainly a more discreet and, above all, permitted item. If you get pulled and asked by the cops, you can distill your immense knowledge in enology, and everything will be fine.

Umbrella

The umbrella is touted in many prepping circles as an effective weapon. There are many videos on the internet showing people swinging an umbrella against attackers, though it’s not really an effective weapon to inflict serious damage nor incapacitate a stronger opponent or attacker – unless you can poke the person’s eye or other soft parts with precision. This is mostly movie stuff, though, I can assure you. 

What I have seen done effectively is using an open umbrella to hide another weapon, like a firearm, pepper spray, or something else. The person opened it while using the other hand to draw a pistol and shoot the criminals coming for him. You see them turning around and running away, desperate in surprise. 

Alcohol

The pandemic has turned carrying a bottle of alcohol into a common thing. No one would think anything of someone carrying it everywhere, not even into restaurants or on public transportation. Except perhaps on airplanes, but you’re unlikely to need to defend yourself while flying anyway.

Alcohol can be used directly if you can splash some into the person’s eyes somehow or threaten with fire. This is tricky, though, but if you can pull this off without being detected, it can work. 

People fear flammables and fire. There’s a famous video of a guy filling the tank at a gas station. A van with thugs comes by, and when they’re about to go down and rob him, he calmly pulls the nozzle and soaks them and the van with gasoline. Of course, they run away immediately.

Now we’re entering the legal gray zone.

Depending on where you live, one or all of the items below would be recognized as weapons by most anyone, especially the authorities. These are more efficient for incapacitating an opponent by inflicting damage or at least changing his mind. 

Telescopic steel baton

Easy to conceal, deploy, and highly effective, the telescopic steel baton is used by many police forces around the world. In fact, it’s so damaging that in many places, it’s illegal (e.g., California). It’s my preferred urban weapon because it’s not as easy to be taken from you, and it’s highly effective even against more than one assailant. 

In fact, it’s very effective as a deterrent because it’s quite intimidating. Opponents should desist just by seeing it being deployed. And if used, only one strike might convince them that insisting on attacking you is a bad idea. 

Brass knuckles

These were also very common in personal combat and even during wars since the ancient Rome period. Though capable of causing serious damage, brass knuckles aren’t just to deliver a more debilitating punch: they’ll save your hands. 

As anyone who’s ever been into a fight can attest, punching someone in the face (or anywhere) bare-handed can be painful. And dangerous too: it’s easier to break a hand or finger than most people think. 

This may be OK during normal times, but thinking in terms of SHTF, breaking anything and especially the hands, may imply a serious handicap, not only for self-defense but for many other things.

Pepper spray

Like firearms, pepper spray may be illegal in some places. In the U.K., for instance, they’re strictly forbidden. Despite laws and regulations, police may or may not have a more lax attitude towards someone carrying a pepper spray, so it’s really down to the local scene. 

When it comes to efficacy, we must be mindful of the time it takes to make an effect: it can be anything from a few seconds to a minute – unless you hit the eyes. For this reason, it’s better if deployed discreetly or by surprise, and when it gets into action, you can run.

When it does work, though, it’s quite effective to incapacitate an assailant or assailants. Smaller canisters are easier to conceal and deploy.

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Knife

In close-quarter combat, knives can be deadlier than a handgun or other firearm. It’s easier and quieter to bring into action, and this makes a huge difference. 

There’s just too much that can be said about knives, from size to type of blade, not to mention the plethora of attack and defense techniques. It would take another article to go over even a fraction of that. Training knife fighting and defense is really, really hard and tricky (not to mention dangerous). 

Just know it’s messy and risky, and if you pull a knife on an attacker and he or she doesn’t change his mind and turn away, you better be ready to use it effectively. There’s always the real risk of getting it taken from and used against us, too. 

There are many other kinds of blades that can perform the same function. Many are improvised, but there’s also a plethora of industrial options out there, some really low-profile like the fixed-blade tactical belt knives. These stay somewhat concealed but can be identified and might be forbidden in most places. Folding knives are controversial, so I’ll leave it at that.

One of the most elegant for civil use is the integrated belt knife by designer Dan Valois. It’s a rather sophisticated solution to keep a small knife concealed and easily available: a 2.75” blade in 420C steel with serrations, useful to cut through seatbelts, cords, and other tough materials. The blade is coated black to make it even more tactical. 

It will sound the alarm from metal detectors and also show up in X-ray equipment. But in the urban environment, it’s the most discreet (I’d say camouflaged) fixed-blade knife that I’ve ever seen or known of. I wear mine all the time, and not once have I had someone asking me about it. For all purposes, it’s just a belt. 

Are there other discreet carry options?

There are a wide range of other discreet weapons that could be considered I didn’t discuss above. If you know of any, let us know in the comments below. What are your thoughts on what I mentioned?

About the Author

Fabian Ommar is a 50-year-old middle-class worker living in São Paulo, Brazil. Far from being the super-tactical or highly trained military survivor type, he is the average joe who since his youth has been involved with self-reliance and outdoor activities and the practical side of balancing life between a big city and rural/wilderness settings. Since the 2008 world economic crisis, he has been training and helping others in his area to become better prepared for the “constant, slow-burning SHTF” of living in a 3rd world country.

Fabian’s ebook, Street Survivalism: A Practical Training Guide To Life In The City , is a practical training method for common city dwellers based on the lifestyle of the homeless (real-life survivors) to be more psychologically, mentally, and physically prepared to deal with the harsh reality of the streets during normal or difficult times. He’s also the author of The Ultimate Survival Gear Handbook.

You can follow Fabian on Instagram @stoicsurvivor