In an increasingly unpredictable world, the prepper lifestyle has gained significant popularity. Preppers, also known as survivalists, are individuals who prepare for emergencies or catastrophes by acquiring skills, resources, and knowledge that enable them to become self-reliant. This article aims to advocate for taking up new hobbies that align with the prepper lifestyle, such as gunsmithing, hiking, hunting, camping, gardening, animal husbandry, and more. By exploring these activities, individuals can gain valuable skills, improve their mental and physical well-being, and enhance their overall preparedness for unforeseen circumstances.
- Gunsmithing
Gunsmithing is the art of designing, building, repairing, and customizing firearms. For preppers, this skill is essential for maintaining and repairing their weapons in situations where professional services may not be available. Learning gunsmithing can also lead to a better understanding of firearms and their functionalities, which can be crucial in emergency situations.
Resources:
- American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI): Offers comprehensive courses on gunsmithing, ranging from basic to advanced levels. (Source:https://www.americangunsmith.com/)
- National Rifle Association (NRA) Gunsmithing Schools: Provides a list of accredited gunsmithing schools across the United States. (Source:https://www.nra.org/education/gunsmithing-schools/)
- Hiking
Hiking is an outdoor activity that involves walking on natural trails, often in remote or mountainous areas. It is an excellent way to improve physical fitness, mental well-being, and develop essential survival skills. For preppers, hiking can be a valuable hobby as it helps build endurance, teaches navigation skills, and fosters an appreciation for nature and its resources.
Resources:
- American Hiking Society: Offers resources, guides, and events related to hiking and trail maintenance. (Source:https://americanhiking.org/)
- AllTrails: A comprehensive app and website that provides maps, trail information, and user reviews for hiking routes worldwide. (Source:https://www.alltrails.com/)
- Hunting
Hunting is the practice of tracking, pursuing, and killing wild animals for food, sport, or population control. For preppers, hunting is a crucial skill as it provides a means of sustenance in emergency situations where traditional food sources may be scarce. Moreover, hunting teaches valuable lessons in patience, perseverance, and respect for nature.
Resources:
- National Hunting and Fishing Day: Provides resources, events, and information for hunters and anglers. (Source:https://www.nhfday.org/)
- International Hunter Education Association (IHEA): Offers hunter education courses and resources to promote safe and responsible hunting practices. (Source:https://www.ihea.com/)
- Camping
Camping is an outdoor activity that involves spending one or more nights in a natural environment, often in tents or other temporary shelters. Camping is an excellent way to develop essential survival skills, such as fire-building, shelter construction, and navigation. For preppers, camping can serve as a valuable training ground for practicing and refining these skills in a controlled environment.
Resources:
- Reserve America: A platform for reserving campsites and recreational facilities across the United States. (Source:https://www.reserveamerica.com/)
- The Campfire Collective: A community-driven platform for sharing camping tips, resources, and stories. (Source:https://www.thecampfirecollective.com/)
- Gardening
Gardening is the practice of cultivating plants, flowers, and vegetables for personal consumption or ornamental purposes. For preppers, gardening is an essential skill as it provides a sustainable source of food in emergency situations. Moreover, gardening fosters a deeper connection with nature and teaches important lessons in patience, perseverance, and self-sufficiency.
Resources:
- National Gardening Association: Offers resources, guides, and events related to gardening and horticulture. (Source:https://garden.org/)
- The Old Farmer’s Almanac: Provides gardening advice, tips, and resources for both novice and experienced gardeners. (Source:https://www.almanac.com/gardening)
- Animal Husbandry
Animal husbandry is the practice of breeding, raising, and caring for domestic animals, such as livestock, poultry, and bees. For preppers, animal husbandry is a valuable skill as it provides a sustainable source of food, leather, and other resources in emergency situations. Moreover, animal husbandry fosters a deeper understanding of animal behavior, biology, and the importance of responsible stewardship.
Resources:
- American Livestock Breeds Conservancy: Works to conserve and promote rare and heritage breeds of livestock. (Source:https://albcusa.org/)
- National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service (ATTRA): Provides resources, guides, and webinars on sustainable agriculture and animal husbandry practices. (Source:https://attra.ncat.org/)
Embracing the prepper lifestyle by taking up hobbies such as gunsmithing, hiking, hunting, camping, gardening, and animal husbandry can provide numerous benefits, including enhanced self-reliance, improved mental and physical well-being, and a deeper connection with nature. By developing these skills, individuals can better prepare themselves for unforeseen circumstances and lead more fulfilling, self-sufficient lives.