Folks, I tend to think a lot about what works without the power grid and what doesn't. I try to be prepared for any possible problem that would threaten the welfare of my family. I started to think about this stuff more and more after a severe storm fried our electric water well one year. It was a humbling experience to not be able to get water out of our water faucets. When I lived in the city, this never happened. A power outage would just inconvenience our lives for a short time, but this was the first time my home had been without water. So, I learned from that experience and took necessary steps for a short-term outrage, and I am planing a permanent solution, a hand crank water well, hopefully next year.
I hear about folks investing in silver and gold. Perhaps I'm not educated enough in these matters, but I'm not sure how these metals can comfort my family in the event of a worst-case scenario. It seems like a useless item to invest in when no one can eat it, drink it, melt it over a camp fire or burn it to stay warm. However, I can do many things with lead and zinc over a hot camp fire. I can make bullets, make-shift blades and probably a few other things I haven't thought of.
I guess I'm curious as to what the consensus is among seasoned casters and investment savvy folks. How important is it for you to have silver and gold in a SHTF situation vs. wheel weights and other lead forms?