Body Armor
As we at ZAC have stated in the past, not all of the threats you face post Z-day will be undead. The other humans you will face will be ready to kill you and steal all that you have worked hard to build for yourself. Most likely they will employ some sort of firearm to try to end your life. What will you do to protect yourself from them? You can’t always sit inside your home or your vehicle, because if they trap you inside either, then you might as well be dead. Here we will discuss the best body armor for defeating certain threats.
- Stab Vests: Designed to stop knives, this vest will not protect you from many other sharp instruments, such as nails, ice picks, needles, or other small diameter stabbing weapons.
- Kevlar Vest: This is primarily worn to stop small arms fire from pistols, Sub guns, and will protect against some shrapnel.
- Ceramic Plates: These range in ratings from small arms protection, to military rifle protection, and the level 4A will even protect you from a large range of sniper rounds.
- Helmets: The “Mich” and the PASGT helmets will stop small arms fire and some shrapnel, but do not protect so well against blunt force trauma.
A lot of people are worried about comfort, weight, heat, and other inconveniences. When your life is on the line everyday, can you really be worried with such things?
Stay safe. Stay informed. Stay alive.
Comments (55)
crazycanuck on 28 Mar 2010 at 2:02 pm #
this site is retarded. its encouraging people to spend thousands of dollars
to build up an impenitrable fortress to defend against imaginary beings. i own a shotgun
for hunting but if a more realistic emergency occured like an intruder in my house i could
defend my family. im not going to build a ten foot wall around my house rigged with trip
mines or buy a $2000 ar15 just to put it in the trunk of my car for zombie slaying.
i just found this site looking for flash games and found this article. your all parinoid
morons.
Norman on 28 Mar 2010 at 3:48 pm #
Heat and weight are hardly mere inconveniences when it comes to survival situations. You hardly want something that is going to slow you down, limit what you can carry, or possibly induce heat stroke when scavenging, now do you? Bulky armor might be good to have on hand in a stronghold, but there are real trade-offs to face when away from home in a zombie-infested wasteland.
And, to the crazycanuck, you came to a site called Zombies Are Coming and then got concerned when it didn’t break character? You seem a bit unclear on the concept.
jay on 28 Mar 2010 at 4:10 pm #
crazycanuck why come to this site in the 1st place if its retarded you must of had some kind of intrest, even to make your RETARDED post so just got to say one thing jog on mate ill see you on the other side….
DeltaBravo on 28 Mar 2010 at 6:27 pm #
The only thing I dislike more than naysayers are trolling naysayers. If you think the possibility of a zombie apocalypse is “retarded” then why come here in the first place? Does mocking people get your rocks off or something? If I ever meet you in real life you can’t have my food.
Ronin666 on 28 Mar 2010 at 7:40 pm #
All of the above gear is illegal to own in Australia.Get caught with body armour and you’ll be spending time with Bubba in a 10×10.
Angryvikingman on 28 Mar 2010 at 7:51 pm #
@ crazycanuck
“your all parinoid morons”
Wow, can you say epic fail? Try “you’re all paranoid morons” you moron. And NO ONE on this site is saying that you HAVE to buy anything, or do anything. We are only making suggestions for what you COULD do in the event of a catastrophic event, whether it be Zombies, invasion, or any other horrible situation.
Aside from that fucking R-tard, I have to say that I can live with being a little sweaty, and a little encumbered if its going to save my life. Thats like having a hadgun permit and NOT wearing your weapon 365 days a year. The one day you don’t have it, murphy’s law is gonna take effect.
12lbs of level 4a body armor really isnt all that much. Its lighter than my chainmail shirt. When its in my plate carrier, and I throw on about 20 more pounds of gear in the form of my rifle, my pistol, full mags, kukri, my canteen, butt pouch, dump pouch and maybe even my shotgun if I’m feeling squirrelly, thats still NOT a whole lot to carry when compared to the the combat load of a soldier. And right now they’re carrying all that crap in the desert heat, so I know it can be done. If you have the weight dispersed properly over your body, then you can carry a lot more than you think. If I threw my MZPK on, it’d still only add another 15-20 lbs., so I’m still under 60lbs, and in full combat/survival gear. Yeah, humping that much crap all day is pretty tiring, but lots of people in the military do it, as well as a lot of other recreational campers, myself included. When you have a family, you’ll find that you are the one who has to carry every-damn-thing. (if you’re a man)
David on 28 Mar 2010 at 8:43 pm #
Stab vests, kevlar, etc. would be a great thing to have, but it may be a little better to also keep an eye open for things that are a bit more common. For that, I say you can’t go wrong with a leather jacket. Granted, it won’t protect you from bullets, but it will keep a zombie from biting through your skin. Just because you can’t have the best protection possible doesn’t mean you should let yourself get infected.
Kain - ZAC Weapon Consultant on 28 Mar 2010 at 9:22 pm #
Jesus God, not another one, you know guys please don’t encourage the idiots, it only makes them feel important. Though they do tend to drive the topics, I digress. But, he isn’t the first and won’t be the last and those who want to sling insults will get their comeuppance, don’t believe me check the comments on an old article “Group Preparedness” talk about having it shoved in and broken off, what’s his name is likely still spitting up pieces of my boot leather. Though, it is a mark of how far we have fallen as a civilization where we can’t disagree on a topic respectfully, granted I’m as guilty as the next, but I will admit my faults and try to at least be respectful, to degrees, always to degrees.
As to body armor, it’s a give and take, and always compromise. You have to look at this way, do the benefits outweigh the risks? Also, a point I’m personally surprised that no one has brought up since you guys seem to be so keen to blow holes in our topics and logic, you do realize that people will be use to going for head shots against zombies. While some of the new helmets are good, they can only redirect and it is nothing to aim just a smidge lower and shoot in the face, if they are unseen and get the first shot, body armor is not likely to matter. Now in a balls to walls fire fight yes I would like to have body armor on hand, but generally I would likely only personally run a pair of standalone rifle plates and call it a day, works for a wide range of situations and is in my opinion the best balance or weight to protection to mobility.
Also, to comment on what one poster said, who’s comments is currently waiting to be approved, a leather jacket will actually stop a bullet, or at least a heavy leather jacket with a bunch of layers underneath will stop a two .40 cal federal hydro-shocks. That said, you will be on your ass, and sucking wind like an asthmatic jogger, but you will still be alive.
“They won’t get me they won’t get me thought they never cease to try
they won’t get me they won’t get me I would rather fight and die
they won’t get me they won’t get me well my friend will they get you?
when they get you when they get you tell me what are you gonna do?”
Dropkick Murphys – The Gauntlet
Angryvikingman on 29 Mar 2010 at 1:14 am #
According to what I have read, the average soldier carries:
Average fighting load: 62 lbs.
Average approach March load: 95 lbs.
Average Emergency Approach March Load: 128 lbs.
This is from a study conducted with the cooperation of the 82nd Airborne.
Worn on Body/Uniform:
• M4 Carbine with PEQ-2 Laser/PAQ-4 Laser, ACOG/CCO, and 30 rounds of 5.56mm ball
ammunition.
• Desert Camouflage Uniform with Infrared Tape on left sleeve (1”x1”).
• Desert Combat Boots.
• Dog Tags.
• ID Card.
• Undershirt.
• Socks.
• Tactical gloves.
• Interceptor Body Armor with two Small Arms Protective Inserts.
• Advanced Combat Helmet with night vision mounting plate.
• Rigger belt.
• Notebook and pen.
• Watch.
• Knee and elbow pads.
• Sun, Sand, and Dust type Goggles or Wiley-X Goggles.
• Folding Knife/Multi-tool.
Worn on Fighting Load Carrier/Interceptor Body Armor:
• MOLLE Fighting Load Carrier with modular MOLLE pouches.
• 180 rounds of 5.56mm ball ammunition.
• Bayonet.
• Fragmentation grenade.
• 64 ounces of water in two 1-quart canteens.
• 100 ounces of water in a hydration bladder.
• Casualty and witness cards.
• Flex cuffs for personnel under custody.
• Night vision equipment (PVS-14/PVS-7).
• Iodine tablets.
• Lensatic compass.
• Flashlight.
• Chemlight.
• First Aid dressing and pouch.
• Canteen Cup.
• Earplugs.
• Internal Communications Radio (ICOM)
Carried in Assault Rucksack:
• MOLLE Assault Rucksack or commercial assault rucksack, with MOLLE attachments.
• 500ml intravenous fluids bag with starter kit.
• 70 ounces of water in a second hydration bladder.
• Two Meals, Ready to Eat (MREs).
• Poncho and/or Bivy Sack.
• Poncho liner.
• Undershirt.
• Spare batteries.
• Two pair of socks.
• Polypropylene or silk long sleeve undershirt.
• M4/M16 Rifle Cleaning Kit.
• Personal hygiene kit.
• Rubber gloves.
• Sling rope with two snap links.
Carried in Main Rucksack: (Main rucksacks were rarely taken on operations during study)
• MOLLE main rucksack with Sleeping Bag Carrier or Large ALICE rucksack.
• Modular Sleeping Bag (one bag per two men).
• Long Polypropylene Underwear of Fleece Jacket and Bibs.
• Two Undershirts.
• Two pairs of socks.
• Cold Weather Gloves.
• Knit/Fleece Cap.
• Additional ammunition.
• Two Meals, Ready to Eat (MREs).
• Sleeping pad.
Special Equipment:
• Map (A).
• Aerial Photographs (A).
• Whistle (B).
• Concussion grenade (B).
• Smoke grenade (B).
• Incendiary grenade (B).
• Global Positioning System (B).
• Lock pick (B).
• Collapsible Riot Baton (B).
• Infrared Strobe Light. (B).
• Bolt cutters (C or D).
• Metal detecting wand (C or D).
• 60mm mortar round (C or D).
• Star Cluster (C or D).
• VS-17 Panel (C or D).
• Ground Control Laser Pointer.
So, at what I carry, I’m still quite a bit under the average combat weight. As of right now, I don’t have plates for my carrier yet, but I’m saving for them. They’re $250 each plate for level 4A, I’ve got a buddy looking into surplus and other options to get them cheaper, but I’m betting I’ll end up having to pay full price. As for people getting used to taking head shots, I personally wouldn’t make a head shot the first shot unless they were either standing still, walking towards/away from me in a straight line, or walking slowly. If they were running, then I’d take a body shot to slow them down, and follow up with a head shot. This is of course assuming that they are more than 25 yards away with a pistol, or 50+ with a rifle. If I don’t have my scope on my AR-15, then I won’t shoot past 100 yards with my Aimpoint. With my scope, I’ll got out to 500 yards, but wouldn’t attempt a head shot unless they were inside 250. Just to conserve ammo, and not give away my position. I’m a good shot, but by no means am I a trained sniper. This was not intended to be as lengthy as it was, but it is just an example of what the military carries on top of their full body armor systems. I don’t even carry that much, so yeah…
specially equipped Guardsman on 29 Mar 2010 at 4:44 am #
I think leather chaps and a biker jacket are a good start for most people, you’re mostly worried about bites remember. If you have more money then you know what to do with sure get yourself a second chance vest. I think Full up body armor is a waste for most people. I just happen to have a set of IBA and a MICH helmet, but then I’m a “specially equipped Guardsman”, On Z-day I’m gonna ditch the plates they are just too heavy in my opinion, considering the primary threat is biters. I’ll keep the helmet just in case they really are after “Brainzzzz!” I have my IBA set up as load bearing gear Camelback and pouches for 12 30 round mags plus assorted bits of gear. This is a good start to the idea of Z.O.P.P. levels (Zombie Oriented Protective Posture). How much protection do you need at a given threat level?
Z.O.P.P. level 0: No known zombie threat. work/street clothes. leatherman tool/ clipknife. Small flashlight. cellphone/PDA. Bug out bag in the car.
KillerB on 29 Mar 2010 at 5:52 pm #
I own body armor but I think that it would only be worn if there were a lot of hostile non-zombies running around. In my opinion wearing the armor for long periods of time is not a problem. I have worn full armor for days straight in the Marines and yes it sucked but you get used to it. If, however, the threat was higher from the zeds then I may just leave it in the car. I have always been a big fan of having a chest rig that goes over my body armor. That same chest rig can hold the plates for situations where the full set of armor is not required.
I would say that if you have armor then you should wear it. It may just save your life. The armor will be used mostly at the start of the zombie invasion when there are still a lot of desperate people running around. They may just shoot you for what they think that you may have. After the zeds have infected the majority of the population then loosing the extra weight of the armor might be the way to go. It all depends on how people react to other people after the colapse of society. This is just my opinion but if you already own it then you are fine but if you are still looking to get some then think hard. Do you have 1 year of food and water for you and your family, fuel for both cooking and driving, do you have camping gear, basic survival gear, tools, a long gun and side arm for all in your family, and enough ammo to carry you through. If you answered yes to everything above then armor is something that you may need. But do not rush out and spend a massive ammount of money on armor if you do not have the basics covered. That money can be better used in other places.
CHEERS
KillerB on 29 Mar 2010 at 6:16 pm #
P.S. @ Angryvikingman
Good list. Keep in mid that while your list was very comprehensive it does not take into account the individual. I always made a list for my Marines of the things that they had to carry. The list was always mission essential items. If they wanted to sleep cold that was fine by me. Most were very good about picking the right gear for the task at hand and they were always good about bringing their BOBs just in case we had to stay an extra night or two. Yes there were times when we had to pack exactly what was on a list but this was mostly for inspections or a new platoon. In any case good list. I am sure that many people with military backgrounds can remember lists just like that one.
Just as a side note. A Marine Combat Engineers (1371) combat load also consisted of C4, time systems, caps, and all the tools needed to make things go BOOM. We were also expected to follow the grunts (0311) and fill the role of an infantry squad, or platoon when needed. So the idea of an average combat load to me means weapon, armor, ammo, grenades, smokes, demolitions. Everything else was carried in trucks or in small day packs. The idea was to have just enough to get by without killing yourself carrying it. For me that meant Copenhagen, extra socks, sleeping gear, and a beanie cap. Those items along with what I carried in my assault pack have carried me a long long way. Once you are actually weighted down with the mission essential items, and the few items that you decide are mandatory you quickly start to leave things back at base. I am sure that in the mountians or anyplace around here I would want some additional items that are climate specific. Like a tent, climbing gear, ski’s, stoves, and just general camping gear. Unlike my experiances in Iraq (where you are supported my a massive logistics system) when the Zeds come there will be no support from the mighty logistical minds of America. So it would be best to bring way to much and then par that down as needed. CHEERS
McLuvin on 30 Mar 2010 at 4:49 pm #
I’m not a big fan of body armor. I don’t believe gunfights will be as common as everybody thinks. Most survivors will either band together or avoid eachother. The average shooter can’t hit anyone past about 30′ anyway so you should be able to deal with them before they even get in range. A good shooter that wants to kill you will probably do it before you even know he is there. I would be more concerned with the zombie threat and mobility.
sean on 31 Mar 2010 at 9:52 pm #
what about homemade body armor?
any tips or suggestions for those without the viablity of acquiring actual body armor?
Semper Cogitant on 01 Apr 2010 at 6:15 am #
In our scenario ballistic body armor is probably a moot point. Anyone still around after a few weeks will be used to and proficient at making head shots. It will be everyone’s first instinct to aim for the head, no one will revert to aiming for center mass if they are shooting at live people.
Ballistic armor would be too heavy and cumbersome. I would want good, light weight, anti zombie armor – likely made from riot gear, sports pads and duct tape. Light weight load bearing vests like dragon skin might be nice to have, but a none armored vest over riot gear would do the job well enough for a tenth of the price.
Head protection would then become doubly important. A good Kevlar helmet and a ballistic face shield would stop most small arms fire from penetrating your head. Good stuff is available only for about $600 for both pieces.
The problem, of course, is that even if the bullet stops before it gets to your head, you still have to deal with that energy. You might be able to keep going after a glancing hit, but a direct hit to your helmet would still knock you down, and probably out. Even if not unconscious you’d be on the ground and dazed, a very dangerous situation with zeds around.
McLuvin on 01 Apr 2010 at 6:08 pm #
Good idea Viking. That hex armor is the most useful, realistic anti-zombie armor listed.
trenton on 01 Apr 2010 at 8:32 pm #
i persanlly am a big fan of zac because it promotes awarness of somthing that could acutally happen but besides that i own a large colecion of knives gus and aromer dating from 1974 i have even made a makeshift bunker in my room plus tons of escape routes throgh out my woods and iam only 15 and have miltary traing but back to the subject aromer is a very good thing to use why well simply because cloths will not all ways protect you but armore ahhh aromer will protect ten times longer than just cloths and ya might want to where a army jacket so if you belive in the zombie post apoclipse i would advise armore but if your small and not that strong you probly should go light i hope every one lives no matter what your size race or religion is good luck
Michael on 05 Apr 2010 at 3:04 am #
The first guy that commented is an idiot, no doubt, he will be the first guy that will get infected and turn into a zombie and I will be the first guy to shoot him in the face. And even in movies too, there is always this one person that talks a load of sh*t and get killed first or is the weakest link.
3-15 INF on 05 Apr 2010 at 12:16 pm #
With all of you guys around shooting, armor is on my list
Angryvikingman on 06 Apr 2010 at 12:58 am #
I don’t know whether to take that as an insult or a compliment, lol!
Dreamornaut on 07 Apr 2010 at 4:17 pm #
Well the hex armor makes sense to me.
KillerB on 07 Apr 2010 at 5:24 pm #
Body Armor, the type that stops bullets, will be a comforting thing to have when everyone starts shooting at everything that may or may not be a Zombie. I belive that wearing ballistic armor to defend against bitting and clawing Zeds is not a bad idea. There are lighter options available if you are not worried about getting shot. Leather jackets and pants along with some tough gloves, a lightweight full face helmet, and something to keep body fluids off your face and you will be set against the Zeds. Armor is only going to keep you safe if you are in an area where there are still a lot of people around. Once they get hungry then they will be way more dangerous than the Zeds. So in short if you have it then you will probably end up wearing it and if not then many people will probably improvise some sort of armor agains the mouths of the Zeds. The whole point of both types of armor is that they are a there to give you one more chance at life. If you get it in your head that you are invincable cause you are wearing armor then you will still die. So wearing armor is less important than who is watching your back. If you are able to link up with even one solid person your chances of survival will double. Don’t allow yourself to be cornered and the issue of armor becomes less improtant. Get cornered on the other hand and all the armor in the world can’t help you. CHEERS
warlok on 07 Apr 2010 at 8:16 pm #
coming from a soldier who has to wear armor, its good to have, as long as you don’t have to run anywhere at any great speed. It will give you piece of mind when the rounds start flying, but if you’re having to run and avoid shamblers and or ragers you’ll have the issue of becoming winded and out of energy. If you’re really worried about protection, I personally would go with a plate carrier, it doesn’t have all the extra kevlar, it’s just two pockets to hold ESPAI plates, you’ll still have your vitals protected but also have the reduced weight. It’s a trade-off really, do you want protection, or do you want freedom of movement and mobility? maybe keep a vest with you if you suspect other people in the area and use it when you need it?
Dave on 17 Apr 2010 at 8:45 am #
I think I’d be looking for being light and fast – everything considered in it’s trade off with stamina. If you’re in a scenario where armour is useful, you’re in a bad scenario. I’ll be looking to keep away from the hordes and being able to efficiently dispatch only occasional stragglers in the way of an objective.
It’s no good if armour is designed to take a full force hit and keep you good after a trip to the doc or even a good rest. There is no doc nor anyone to take you to safety. I imagine even with heavy armour if you take a hit you’re going to be on the floor and it’s game over.
You can always be caught out by a sneaky bite so yeah tough outers can save you from a silly mistake. I’d also want protection from those minor injuries that we can all get from exertion, but which could turn fatal if they just hold back your performance even slightly. So basic padding and even just a cyclist helmet. Any close-quarters combat and I’m going to want a face screen though, do not want infected blood getting into my mouth or eyes.
Scav Dingo on 24 Apr 2010 at 6:01 pm #
..for those unable to equip themselves with military tactical gear, Guardian’s idea of leathers is definitely an ideal substitute, human teeth versus treated cow hide as a leather jacket and chaps isn’t too successful for the biter..
..Semper Cogitant has a excellent point of insignificance in body armor once time has passed from the initial outbreak, firefights will be with the remaining survivors accustom to taking head shots..
..one important aspect of protective equipment that hasn’t been covered is the gas mask – the military will most likely use gas or some airborne agent to control the zombi outbreak (or defensive survivors) at some point and/or some kind of biological gas could potentially be the source of the zombi outbreak, either way a gas mask is highly imperative as protective equipment in the case of various gasses being airborne, providing the ability to retain sight and breath.. ..most military surplus stores have gas masks, a commonly found one is the Israeli M-15/Civilian gas mask, a typical filter lasts about 8 hours of filtration depending on level of contamination, gas masks are intended for evacuation of contaminated area not prolonged living.. ..in which case, if military ground forces are clearing an area with now low-visibility due to gas, your evacuation will most likely be confronted with no discretion toward zombi or human, putting body armor back in necessity..
Thunderhawk on 27 Apr 2010 at 3:40 pm #
hmmmm interesting points, in my opinion i think a flak jacket or vest would probably be the best compromise between ballistic vs bite armor because their designed to resist shrapnel they should be able to reduce a bullets speed while being thick enough to stop a bite. so when Z-day hits i going with my vintage flack jacket and some heavy boots for crushing faces in.
Capnplunder on 30 Apr 2010 at 9:55 am #
I wonder how many of these people on this site who spend all day fantasizing over theoretically dead rising scenarios would actually last in a crisis? Not long I’m assuming. Instead of playing zombie apocalypse in your brain and reading stupid books and articles by people who don’t know anything about any kind of weaponry minus what they read on the internet, go buy a gun and shoot it for real. Chances are almost no one here has actually shot one.
Angryvikingman on 30 Apr 2010 at 12:14 pm #
I know for a fact that myself, Kain, and 3ID are gun nuts and own quite a lot of guns. Most of the articles lately were written by Kain and myself.
I own:
Stag Arms L2 AR-15
Winchester .243 hunting rifle
Mossberg 500 customized 12 ga.
Ward’s Western Field 12ga (old shotgun I inherited. It’ll slam fire!)
Ruger 10/22 customized
Ithica Arms 22 lever action
GSG-5p heavily customized
2 Walther P22s and I also own a supressor for them.
Walther PK380 (My everyday concealed carry pistol)
Other firearms that I have owned:
HKSR9TC .308 battle rifle (Billy Zane used the same model rifle in sniper)
DSA ST58 (FN FAL clone made in america)
S&W M&P .45
So, to sit there and say that these articles are written by people who have no firearms experience is complete and utter bullshit. If you read any responses to articles by:
Angryvikingman
Kain
3ID
3-15 INF
KillerB
Semper Cogitant
And several others (Sorry if I didn’t mention you all, but I have slept)
These people seem to know exactly what they’re talking about as several of them have served in the military and others are gun nuts and medieval weapons fanatics.(Like myself)
Don’t come on this site and comment based on one article you read. Most of these people do their homework on this stuff or are combat veterans. Yes, we have the occasional mall ninja, and until you post a comment thats worth a damn, then you are hereby lumped into that category. You sir, are a mall ninja.
3-15 INF on 03 May 2010 at 8:59 am #
HAHA thats funny
3-15 INF on 03 May 2010 at 9:02 am #
BTW, Douche, if you weren’t so dense youd’e be able to see that some of us use the word “Zombie” as code for a general meltdown of civilization. If you think that is an entirely unlikely situation, than you haven’t been paying much attention the last couple of years. Can’t get in trouble or end up on any watch lists when were talking about something as inoculous as a zombie apocolypse.
oldebull on 08 May 2010 at 2:18 am #
In general we need to think of armor as protecting us from three things:
1)zombie attacks- bites, scratches, knockdown and smother
2)man vs man, be it hostile or friendly fire- melee weapons, guns, knives
3)obstacles, barriers, etc- such as searching through abandoned buildings, walking through debris. Falls, bumping your head, impalement on debris, structural collapse is the likely method of injury.
Police/Military body armor such as bullet proof vests and kevlar helmets are good for man vs man. I cannot say I recommend it for the other purposes though. It leaves to much exposure. Even with sideplates, arm guards, knee and elbow pads, it leaves to many holes to bite/scratch through. Layering it with leathers, or if we are going the military surplus route, a MOPP suit, is a possibility, but impractical. It will any activity exhausting and cumbersome.
Police/Military armor is also very expensive, hard to come by, and often illegal to own.
Fire Fighter Turnout suits offer little protection from bullets, some to stabs, but in my opinion perfect for purpose #2 and #3. It is designed not only to protect from heat and flame, but environment hazards found in a burning building. It is meant to be put on quickly. It covers the skin, head to toe, including a faceshield on the helmet. It is bulky, expensive, and hot to wear.
A cheap and accesable alternative for protective purposes #2 and #3, would be some heavy duty canvas/denin work clothes, layer with (as mentioned above) leathers. This would offer little protection against gunshots and stabbing injuries, but is very bite/scratch resistant, has insulation against cold and heat, is fairly mobile and lightweight, is cheap and common. Add in heavyduty workboots, leather gloves, some type of neck guard, and a helmet (welding mask) with a face shield, you would be offered decent protection.
Since we are talking about protective, simple face masks need to be mentioned. I’m not talking gas mask (although valuable), but a simple dust mask. They are cheap, readily available and multipurpose. They offer protection vs splatter going on your nose and mouth, dust and environmental hazards faced while scavaging, and on a human side, put a little vapo-rub on it and it will block out the scent of death and decay.
Angryvikingman on 08 May 2010 at 9:20 am #
All you really need is a good trench coat, like the german WW1 model, and some waders. German trench coats were reknown for defeating baynet attacks, thats why the WW1 trench knife was designed for the allies, because only a spike like object could penetrate the thick fabric of the coats. Also, waders are made of plastic and rubber, and puncture resistant to snakes and snapping turtles, both of which have a more dangerous/puncturing bite than a human is capable of. Yeah, it may cut your leg on the inside, but nothing will penetrate the membrane and cause infection. (next to nothing anyway)
hencat on 09 May 2010 at 8:47 pm #
honestly you dont ever need to buy shit im waiting for everyone else to fuck up and die and then ima scavenge like crazy
Dave on 10 May 2010 at 2:49 pm #
well i got a .30-30 and a .22 semi pistol but i would save the ammo and use my tippmann 98 custom plat. its a paintball gun but shit i modded it so much it can knock a person down!!!!! and just run away :P
Insolitus Votum on 11 May 2010 at 1:26 pm #
In response to: crazycanuck – this site is retarded.
No one is telling anyone to go spend money on anything, I’d think most people who come to this sight do so for fun. Even if some readers do take is seriously, so what? Fact is if you are prepared for a zombie apocalypse, no matter how improbable that may be, then you’re prepared for virtually any global catastrophe, assuming you survive the initial event:
Natural Disasters: earthquakes, tsunami, volcanic activity, etc.
Global Economic Collapse: Think about what would happen if the entire global economy went belly up; our society is totally dependent on supermarkets and department stores. Supply lines would collapse; money would be useless; food/fuel/medicine could become scarce, leading to roving groups of looters and bandits. If the food situation got bad enough some people may even resort to cannibalism.
Global Pandemic: . . . . leading to Global Economic Collapse (see above)
Global Nuclear War: catastrophic destruction of society . . . leading to Global Economic Collapse (see above)
Unlike a zombie apocolypse, these are NOT unrealistic scenarios:
1. Natural Disasters: Natural disasters occur frequently and with 6.5 billion people on the big blue marble in recent years it hasn’t been uncommon for the death tolls to reach the hundreds of thousands and the number of people displaced to be in the millions (Ex: Haiti, Indonesia, China, Turkey, New Orleans). Anyone, anywhere could be caught in such a disaster.
2. Global Economic Collapse: just look at the current state of the world economy, this is not a far fetched possibility.
3. Global Pandemic: First off let’s define what a ‘Global Pandemic’ is – it’s a bacterial or viral disease that spreads rapidly around the globe killing millions in a short period of time; AIDS does not qualify so don’t go there. Statistically, a global pandemic occurs about every 50 to 60 years. The last big one was Spanish Influenza nearly 100 years ago . . . . we’re well over due for another.
4. Global Nuclear War: We used to be able to say that it will never happen because of assured mutual destruction. But with more radical/less stable states in possession of nuclear arms (Iran, Pakistan, N. Korea, Israel, India) and the collapse of the Soviet Union and current financial woes of the Russian state making the possibility of nuclear materials falling into the hands of terrorists a real possibility.
Let’s not forget ‘Dirty Bombs’ either; they don’t require weapons grade plutonium/uranium.
That said don’t be so quick to denounce people that come to this sight as morons, less you seem a moron yourself.
HMPlatinum on 23 May 2010 at 2:58 pm #
I bike and own full leathers.
I hunt and own a few hunting firearms.
I camp and have outdoor survival equipment.
I am a former Marine.
I like shooting and own a few weapons for “plinking”
I have a CCW.
I carry a large, barely concealed handgun. (Para hi-cap .45)
I wish I had full body armor.
I probably wouldn’t wear it all the time, unless around other live humans not in my group (if any group exists).
I will probably end up shooting ‘tards like the above posters, whether it be zombie apocalypse or civil war or other horrible reality.
I think there are many many many more ‘tards that need (or will need) shooting than there are people like us.
That’s a lot of “I”, but not the most important one.
I will die alone.
Body armor, guns, vehicles and a lack of ‘tards (or a pile of dead ones) will only get you so far. Realistically, a lone survivor is like a new motorcycle rider….haven’t dropped, yet.
Chris E. on 26 May 2010 at 7:26 pm #
I would raid the police building and steal on of the K-9 training suits. They are very protective and zombies could not bite thru.
HMPlatinum on 12 Jun 2010 at 1:52 pm #
@Chris E.
Food for thought….they are bulky making it impossible for you to move quickly, and nearly impossible to wield any sort of weapon. How long do you think it would take a moderate-sized mob to chew their way through?
-ma-kay-la- on 10 Aug 2010 at 1:08 am #
Well, since im a chick and not nearly as strong as a man, id go with something like that hex armor, im pretty fast on my feet most of the time, and i can run quite a while without stopping, i think my problem would probably be my weapons, what will they be and how will i get them.
Tyler on 28 Sep 2010 at 4:08 pm #
In regards to the people who are saying the fact that this is all imaginary, you are wrong. In certain cultures that practice voodoo, there are certain chemicals that can poison the body to the point of a deathlike state. The people in this state are then revived after a period of time and forced to work as a slave. My hypothesis is that using the same chemicals and having the zombi(the voodooist term) revived, you can hardwire the zombi’s brain to eat certain things after putting the poison in their blood and saliva in order to spread this “pathogen.”
Tyler on 28 Sep 2010 at 4:12 pm #
in my point of view, the best armor would be a classic or c-class neptunic shark suit, being lightweight and durable (the thing keeps sharks from hurting you!!!). Basicly, this thing could save your ass
nate.. on 28 Sep 2010 at 11:49 pm #
hey every body. i know you are all on the subject of body armor. but i was just thinking about wepons. i know some of you said somthing about M4 or M16s.
i just was reading about the RFB CARBINE 308 bullpup rifle from kel-tec, it sounds like a solid rifle. and with a 308 round to boot. lol that would put one heck of a whole in any thing. of corse a 12 gage would be prety dang efective on zombies.
but if you are protecting your family from other humans with guns, i thought a bull pup rifle would almost double as a sniper rifle with a scope. any way what is your guys opinion????????
nate.. on 29 Sep 2010 at 12:02 am #
lol just read a coment above that said, and i quote “some of us use the word “Zombie” as code for a general meltdown of civilization” ” Can’t get in trouble or end up on any watch lists when were talking about something as inoculous as a zombie apocolypse.”
and end quote. WELL THEY ALLL KNOW NOW………
nate.. on 29 Sep 2010 at 12:12 am #
Sorry i am kind of reading back wards up the page and catching stuff i did not notice. in answere to the smart elec who said most of the people have never shot a gun. i have shot numeruse wepons and own. 3-22lr 2-shot guns and one 357 mag.
i know thats less than others on this web site but hey. at least i own some.
HMPlatinum on 04 Oct 2010 at 7:09 pm #
@Tyler: Chainmail, FTW!
Semper gumbii on 01 Dec 2010 at 2:56 pm #
Looking at the likelyhood of zombie attack again… Theres all sorts of viruses and parasites out there now that alter animals mental status and could, given time infect humans.
Now to armor… Plates only cover so much, so even if they clip you in the leg, how long are you going to survive? And furthermore, they’ve stopped with the big IBA and swapped to plate carriers in afgan for foot mobile troops to aide in manouvering. IMO some kinda light weight (read hex or leathers with armor) and a motorcycle helmet (3/4 so you get the wider view and face shield) would probably be your best bet. Plus you can use it now for the motorcycle you should be practicing on. What better vehicle for fast scouting/scavenging? Fuel conservation, high manouverability, easier to get through congested areas, and really fast. Not something for going through a horde with, but scouting and scavaging? Perfect.
ZombiesareCumming69 on 04 Mar 2011 at 10:14 am #
Would playing Nazi Zombies increase the chance of survival at all?
Shawn on 26 Apr 2011 at 8:59 pm #
This site is funny cool. Yes my AR is ready and I have plenty of ammo.
Shawn on 26 Apr 2011 at 9:01 pm #
OH and another note: Its not if they are coming it is WHEN.
-ma-kay-la- on 06 May 2011 at 7:24 pm #
@ ZombiesareCumming69 i dont think playing nazi zombies will do much when it comes to real zombies, mostly cus ull hav to get off ur ass and use muscle, but it might help u plan strategies against the zombies