Zombie Survival Guide – Choosing Weapons

Author Max Brooks on Weapons Preparation for a Zombie Attack

Oct 13, 2009 Terah Talley

"The Zombie Survival Guide" by Max Brooks explains that "choosing the right weapons can make the difference between a pile of dead zombies and becoming one yourself."

In the New York Times Bestseller The Zombie Survival Guide, Max Brooks informs his readers how to detect and defend against the undead. Brooks includes detailed weapons knowledge and combat techniques in order to help humanity survive the zombies' attack. This book does not teach the public to become zombie hunters, but rather how to simply survive against these "subhuman beasts."

General Rules Concerning Weapons

1. The law must be obeyed. There are regulations for purchasing and owning weapons of all kinds. When preparing for the zombie apocalypse, it is important to follow these laws. During an undead attack "law enforcement must look upon [the reader] as a model citizen, someone to be trusted and left alone, not a felon of questionable background who should be questioned at the first sign of trouble."
2. Consistent and extensive training should be acquired. Brooks suggests that the reader practice using their weapons as often as possible and seek professional training when possible. No matter what the weapon is, it should feel like an extension of the wielder's body.
3. Proper care should be applied toward all tools. Inspection and cleaning should become part of daily use. Brooks also suggests that the reader "never abuse [their] tools or expose them to unnecessary damage."
4. Display items should be avoided. Many companies will sell replica weapons that are not meant for real world use. Research should be done on the intended weapon and, when possible, a duplicate purchased for use during training.
5. The first and most important weapon, the body, should be developed first. In order to prepare for a zombie attack, it is important for humans expecting to survive to follow a strict diet and exercise plan. Cardiovascular fitness is more important than strength training when dealing with the undead. Also, Brooks states that learning at least one martial art that focuses on escaping holds rather than giving blows will help the reader defend against zombies.

Close Combat Weapons

There are a few key things to remember when deciding upon which weapons to use to fight effectively against the undead. First, weight of the weapon will become an issue. A ten pound weapon will begin to feel like it is fifty pounds if carried or swung around for a long period of time. The survivalist should be wary of weapons that rely on ammo or fuel. Having a low noise profile will keep the chosen weapon from attracting nearby zombies. Also, the weapons need to be extremely durable so that they will remain effective through the duration of the attack.

Suggested close combat weapons include:

• The titanium steel crowbar is considered the best bludgeon weapon.
• Single-handed swords allow the other hand to be free for other tasks, such as opening a door.
• Out of the double-handed swords, the Japanese Samurai Katana ranks supreme.
• A machete can be extremely useful but look for the military type found at Army surplus stores.
• Knives serve a variety of functions and are overall useful tools.
• The trench spike is the best compact anti-zombie weapon.
• The Shaolin spade is not a common weapon but definitely recommended.

Ranged Weapons

The same rules apply for ranged weapons as they do for close combat. Weight and noise profile should be low, while high durability is a must. Concerning firearms, accessories worth investing in would be a silencer and conventional glass or metal sights.

Suggested ranged weapons include:

• A crossbow could be used against one zombie at a time but marksmanship is needed.
• A semiautomatic rifle is perfect for engaging multiple targets.
• .22-caliber rimfire weapons are a good choice as ammunition is very light weight.
• Molotov cocktails are effective against multiple zombies when situation permits, such as when fleeing a building that is filled with zombies.

Preparing for Zombie Attacks

The reader should remember that the time to prepare for a zombie attack is now. Preparing the body, obtaining the proper weapons, and having proper training with chosen weapons takes time. Since the outbreak of the Solanum virus will probably come without warning, survivalists should remember the general rules concerning weapons and choose which close combat and long ranged weapons will be needed.

References

Brooks, Max. The Zombie Survival Guide. THREE RIVERS PRESS New York, New York. 2003

The copyright of the article Zombie Survival Guide – Choosing Weapons in Sci-Fi/Fantasy Fiction is owned by Terah Talley. Permission to republish Zombie Survival Guide – Choosing Weapons in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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