This was posted by John Hollister, on another forum I frequent, way back in 2008, but it still holds true to this day.
Folks. People like to have the cool guy gear, but if it came down to it, would you honestly know what to do with it if you needed to?
In the last, basically, two weeks, we have seen runs on gun stores for rifles and pistols. OK, you bought a shiny AR15. Congratulations
But again, when the Aliens are landing or the Zombies are rising (tongue obviously in cheek, insert your own SHTF situation here) could you utilize it to full effect, or are you buying a rifle/pistol that someone will claim from you?
I could go on for pages, but I hate reading long and boring posts . . .
First-aid, knife skills, firearms skills . . . hell, driving . . . get out there and learn from a professional how to use the shiny gear you own! Otherwise it'll do you little to no good when you really need it
Be safe