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Choosing Tires For Your BOV.

As we are getting ready to head into winter, if your BOV is also your daily driver make sure you check your tires.

Choosing tires for your BOV is one of the most important things. Tires are the only part of your BOV that will touch the ground and unless you have tank tracks on your BOV, you will need to get tires. Tires should be the one thing that you should not go cheap on. There are a lot of things to know about tires and things to consider when choosing tires. Using HANK's tire as the example it is a 275/65R18 116T. So, this information tells you so much that you need to know about your tire. So, the factory tires were P265/70R16 112T. We will start with the basic information of the only way to gain ground clearance is by putting taller tires on your vehicle. From stock to what we have on the truck now we went from 30.6" tall to 32.1" tall. That is 1.5" taller over all but only .75 or 3/4" in ground clearance. Only half of 1.5" is below the axle.

Ok let's start to unload what all these numbers and letters mean. Starting off tires usually start with "P" or "LT". P=passenger, LT=light truck. Passenger tires usually give you a smoother and quitter ride on the highway. These tires usually do not perform well off-road. Light trucks are usually not as smooth and a little nosier on the highway but perform better off road.

Now the 275 is the width of the tread in mm. If you have a 33x12.5R18 those measurements or in inches. 65 refers to 65% of 275mm and is the height of the sidewall from the rim to the tread. R=rim and the 18 refers to the rim diameter is 18". That is the basic information you need to know when it comes to buying replacement tires at a tire shop.

The 116T is the load and speed rating of the tires. the 116 is the load index and the "T" is the speed rating. 116= 2756 lbs.com/ 1250 kg. So, each tire is rated to carry 2756 pounds, 5,512 pounds per axle, 11,024 pounds if the weight is evenly distributed over the vehicle. T=118 mph as the safe max speed for the tire. Most trucks show a top speed of 100-120mph, so a "T" rating works fine.

Let's dig deeper into all of these numbers and what changing the numbers around can do for your vehicle. From factory to what is on the truck now the width went from 10.4" to 10.8", that is only .4" but driving through curve in mountains at highway speeds the .4" in width made HANK handle so much better. From factory 16" rim to the 18" rim the height and width did not change much. Hanks new tires will be bigger than what is on there now but again not going overly big. If you are not planning on lifting your vehicle, you will be limited on how big of a tire you can put under the vehicle.

Starting with the load index tires will normally range from 70-126. 0-150 is the full spectrum of the load index. We will focus on the 70-126. 70=739 LBS- 126=3748 LBS. You might also find a Load range and/or Ply rating on the tire. If you are familiar with heavy trailers those tires usually have load ranges or ply rating. Depending on the sit and or tire shop you could see SL, XL, C1, C2, D1, D2, E1, E2, F1, G and those will correlate with ply rating at a PSI level. SL= 4ply @36PSI, XL= 4ply @42psi, C1= 6PLY@50PSI, C2= 6PLY@35PSI, D1= 8PLY@65PSI, D2= 8PLY@50PSI, E1= 10PLY@80PSI, E2= 10PLY@65PSI, F1= 12PLY@95PSI, and G= 14PLY@110PSI. There is also B= 4ply, C= 6ply, D=8ply, E=10ply, F=12ply. In theory the higher the ply the more weight.

Now look at the GVWR of your vehicle and your tire load index. So, looking at HANK 7200 GVWR and the tires are 116 load index. So total load for all four tires is 11,024. Now that is good but the tires, we are planning on ordering will be 129R. That will be 4079LBS per tire or 16,316LBS over all four tires giving us 5,292 more pounds in the load rating. That does not mean we can add all that extra weight the HANK per-say but we will cover that later. The higher that load rating is over the GVWR the safe you know you are for not overloading the tires.

The speed rating will range from L-Z. The "Z" rating usually is listed before the rim size so it will be like 255/35ZR18, something like that. Z will usually be rated for speeds higher than 186MPH. L=75mph, M=81mph, N=87mph, P=93mph, Q=99mph, R=106mph, S=112mph, T=118mph, U=124mph, H=130mph, V=149mph, W=168mph, Y=186mph. Normally LT tires speed rating will R-T but is all depends on the manufacture of the tire.

Tires are also made from different compounds. Summer tires are a hard compound and will only perform well in summertime heat. Winter tires are made from a soft compound designed for cold weather and will get too soft to perform in some time. All Season tires will not preform overly-well in anyone season but will be OK in any season. All Season times are the most common sold in the US.

Looking at a truck tires you will see things like AT, MT, HT. AT= All terrain, MT= Mud terrain, HT= Highway terrain. Our recommendation is the AT tires. If you know that 90-99% of your driving will be in mud, then go with the MT. The AT tires are going to be like the all-season tires, they will not preform overly well in one area but will be ok in All terrains. The AT will be quitter on the highway and will have longer life doing mostly highway driving over MT tires. You will also see a M&S designation on tires, it stands for mud and snow.

Now that you have all of this information on tires, let's start looking at tire manufactures and the different tread patters on tires you can choose from. I will not say one brand is better than the other just what I know from personal and people we know experience with different tires as well as online reviews.

The number one tire I use and everyone I know from farming to construction and that I have seen a number of over landers is the BF Goodrich T/A K02 All Terrain tire. It has a good tread design and if properly inflated and balanced and rotate them regularly they will have a good wear and life out of them.

I have heard that the Goodyear Wrangler MT/R is a great tire as long as your vehicle is not too heavy. The tire is a mix of mud and all terrain and Kevlar. I have not used these because of the weight of my vehicle.

Micky Thompson makes a great tire as well. My brother-in-law has had the same set on his truck for 10 years and drives it daily. He swears by Micky Thompson tires.

Find what you like and what you can afford and what will fit on your vehicle.

Another side note- I put Micky Thompsons Baja Boss AT on my Ram 1500 and love these tires. They might be my new favorite tire.

Be Smart, Be Prepared, Stay Save

Never Retreat, Never Surrender

Stay Survived, Stay Alive

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Body Armor

With how crazy things already are and they seem to be getting worse, you really should think about getting body armor. You should also be stocking up on guns and ammo. You need to be ready for law and order to be completely shut off or a foreign army to invade. Do what is best for you but please make sure you are willing and able to survive what is coming. Be Smart, Be Prepared, Stay Safe.

Bullet Safe- https://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=525486&u=3097938&m=49871

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Surviving an All-Out Civil War: A Practical Guide to Safety and Resilience

Civil war is the worst-case scenario for any country, tearing apart the social fabric, disrupting daily life, and putting citizens in unimaginable danger. As the conflict turns neighbor against neighbor, those caught in the crossfire must adapt quickly to survive. This guide aims to provide practical steps for enduring such a devastating situation, focusing on preparedness, safety, and resilience.

1. Prioritize Physical Safety

In an all-out civil war, staying physically safe is your primary concern. Civil wars are chaotic, with shifting front lines, militias, and sudden outbursts of violence. Consider these strategies:

a. Avoid Hot Zones
Identify the areas most likely to experience conflict, such as government buildings, military bases, and urban centers where protests or clashes are frequent. It’s crucial to avoid these hotspots, especially as tensions escalate.

b. Know Your Escape Routes
Familiarize yourself with multiple exit routes from your home, neighborhood, and city. Main roads can quickly become blocked by debris, military ...

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Preparing for an Economic Collapse: A Practical Guide

In recent years, discussions about economic instability have become increasingly common. While it’s impossible to predict the future with certainty, being prepared for an economic collapse can provide peace of mind and security for you and your family. Here’s a practical guide on how to prepare for such a scenario.

Understanding the Risks

Before you can effectively prepare, it’s crucial to understand the potential causes of an economic collapse. Factors can include:

  • Financial Crises: Such as stock market crashes or banking system failures.
  • Natural Disasters: Hurricanes, earthquakes, or pandemics that disrupt supply chains.
  • Geopolitical Events: Wars or trade disputes that affect global markets.
  • Debt Levels: Unsustainable national or personal debt can lead to severe economic downturns.

Understanding these risks will help you identify the most effective strategies for your situation.

Financial Preparedness

1. Build an Emergency Fund

Having a robust emergency fund is the first line of defense against...

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Fitness

To start off, I will say that fitness is probably the most important thing to consider when it comes to prepping. You do not need to be a professional body builder or athlete, but you should be able to run if your life depends on it. All the food, water, and weapons will be useless for you if you cannot walk/run, jump crawl, or wrestle without losing your breath immediately. I hear all the time well I have weapons I do not need to be in shape. Well, if you have never been in the situation where you are in a fire fight for your life then I have some bad news for you, you will be so wore out that is a second person comes up you will be done. there is a reason why the most elite fighting forces in the world are the most physically fit in the armed forces.

Another thing you have to realize as well that you have to be mental fit as well. This also goes into the most elite fighting forces are mentally beat as well as physically beat. Now they also go hand in hand as well. The stronger you get physically and push yourself as...

Advanced Practical Preparation

Advanced Practical Preparation

Evacuation Plans

  1. Know Your Routes: Identify multiple evacuation routes from your home and community. Plan for different scenarios (e.g., natural disaster, civil unrest).
  2. Bug-Out Bag: Prepare a bug-out bag for each family member. This should include essential items such as food, water, clothing, medical supplies, and important documents.

Sustainable Living

  1. Off-Grid Capabilities: Learn how to live off the grid. This includes generating your own power (solar, wind), managing waste, and sourcing water.
  2. Home Defense: Fortify your home to protect against potential threats. This could involve installing security systems, reinforced doors, and creating safe rooms.

Advanced Communication

  1. Ham Radio: Obtain a ham radio license and equipment to maintain communication when traditional systems fail.
  2. Signal Techniques: Learn and practice using signaling methods such as mirrors, flares, and smoke signals.

Psychological Preparation

  1. Mental Health: Prioritize mental health by establishing coping mechanisms and support systems. Consider counseling or therapy if needed.
  2. Family Drills: Conduct regular family drills to practice your emergency plans. This helps to ensure everyone knows what to do and can act quickly.

Community Involvement

  1. Local Groups: Join local preparedness groups or community watch programs. Sharing resources and information can enhance your collective security.
  2. Volunteer: Volunteering with local emergency services can provide valuable skills and a network of contacts.

Technology and Information

  1. Digital Copies: Keep digital copies of important documents on a secure, password-protected device.
  2. Information Security: Protect your digital information with strong passwords and encryption. Be aware of potential cyber threats.

Environmental and Geographic Considerations

  1. Geographic Knowledge: Understand the geography of your area, including natural resources, potential hazards, and escape routes.
  2. Weather Preparedness: Stay informed about weather patterns and have plans for different weather-related emergencies (e.g., extreme heat, cold, storms).

Financial Security

  1. Diversified Assets: Consider diversifying your assets beyond cash, such as precious metals, cryptocurrencies, and tangible goods.
  2. Debt Management: Minimize debt and have a financial plan that accounts for economic instability.

Skill Building

  1. Advanced First Aid: Take advanced first aid courses, including CPR and trauma care.
  2. Technical Skills: Learn technical skills such as basic mechanics, electronics repair, and carpentry.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

  1. Legal Knowledge: Be aware of martial law implications and your rights during a state of emergency.
  2. Ethical Preparedness: Think through ethical dilemmas you might face and have a plan for maintaining your values and principles.

Continuous Improvement

  1. Regular Updates: Regularly review and update your preparedness plans, supplies, and knowledge.
  2. Feedback Loops: After drills and real incidents, assess what worked well and what didn’t, and adjust your plans accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Preparation for a potential World War III scenario requires a holistic approach that includes ongoing education, adaptability, and community involvement. While it’s impossible to predict every situation, being proactive and thorough in your preparations can significantly increase your chances of survival and resilience in the face of crisis.

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Preparing to survive WWIII

Preparing to survive a potential World War III scenario involves a combination of mental, physical, and practical strategies. Here are some comprehensive steps you can take to be better prepared:

Mental Preparation

  1. Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with current events and understand the geopolitical climate.

  2. Develop a Plan: Create a detailed survival plan that includes evacuation routes, communication plans, and safe locations.

  3. Stay Calm: Practice stress management techniques such as meditation and breathing exercises to stay calm during crises.

Physical Preparation

  1. Get Fit: Regular exercise to maintain physical fitness. Being physically fit can increase your chances of survival.

  2. Learn Self-Defense: Take self-defense classes to protect yourself if needed.

  3. Health Check: Ensure you have a current health check-up and address any medical issues.

Practical Preparation

Food and Water

  1. Stockpile Supplies: Store non-perishable food items that can last for an extended period. Consider canned goods, rice, pasta, and freeze-dried foods.

  2. Water Supply: Store plenty of water or have a reliable method to purify water, such as water purification tablets or a filtration system.

Shelter and Safety

  1. Secure Shelter: Identify a safe place in your home or another location that can provide adequate protection. This could be a basement, storm shelter, or other fortified area.

  2. Backup Power: Consider having a generator or solar-powered battery packs to keep essential devices charged.

Medical Supplies

  1. First Aid Kit: Have a comprehensive first aid kit that includes bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription medications.

  2. Medical Knowledge: Learn basic first aid and emergency medical procedures.

Communication

  1. Radio: Have a battery-operated or hand-crank radio to receive news and emergency broadcasts.

  2. Backup Communications: Consider having a satellite phone or walkie-talkies to communicate if traditional phone lines and cell towers are down.

Skills and Knowledge

  1. Survival Skills: Learn essential survival skills such as building a fire, finding food, and purifying water.

  2. Gardening: Knowing how to grow your own food can be invaluable in long-term survival situations.

Financial Preparation

  1. Cash Reserve: Keep a supply of cash in small denominations since ATMs and banks may not be operational.

  2. Valuable Items: Consider having items for bartering, such as alcohol, tobacco, and other goods that might be in high demand.

Community and Networking

  1. Build a Network: Form or join a community of like-minded individuals who can support each other in times of crisis.

  2. Family Plan: Ensure every family member knows the survival plan and their role in it.

Legal and Documentation

  1. Important Documents: Keep copies of essential documents like identification, property deeds, medical records, and insurance policies in a waterproof and fireproof container.

  2. Legal Knowledge: Understand local laws and regulations that may come into effect during wartime.

Continual Learning and Adaptation

  1. Stay Flexible: Be prepared to adapt your plans as situations change.

  2. Ongoing Education: Continuously learn and update your knowledge about survival techniques and current events.

Conclusion

Being prepared for a potential World War III involves a multifaceted approach that includes mental readiness, physical fitness, practical supplies, and a solid plan. Stay informed, build a support network, and continuously adapt your strategies to improve your chances of survival.

 

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