What is Survivalism?

Survivalism is the practice of preparing for the possible apocalyptic destruction of society. It involves the stockpiling of resources, planning escape routes, and buying remote properties in which to ‘bug out’, as well as ‘bugging in’ and living off the grid.

Survivalism originated in America after World War II and the advent of the nuclear age and has since spread to other parts of the world. It has become a multibillion dollar industry, with specialist publications and expositions of survivalist equipment. It is sometimes associated with far-right radical politics, particularly with the militia movement, due to events like the Ruby Ridge shootout and the siege and destruction of the Branch Davidian Compound in Waco, Texas. Survivalists believe that the failure of governmental and civic infrastructure could be caused by ecological disasters, economic collapse, civil war, nuclear attack, or foreign invasion.

What is Disaster Prepping?

Disaster prepping, or “prepping,” is the practice of preparing for potential emergencies and disasters that may occur in the future. It involves stocking up on emergency supplies, such as food, water, shelter, clothing, first aid and medicines, in order to have enough to last for several days. Prepping also involves learning new survival skills, such as wilderness survival, and making emergency contingency plans.

Prepping is not just for those who believe in a post-apocalyptic, doomsday scenario, it can be for any natural or man-made disaster. It is about being prepared mentally and physically, and having the forethought to lay down supplies and stores to last as long as possible in any emergency. Ultimately, disaster prepping is a practice of preparedness that helps to minimize the disruption and suffering caused by any given disaster or crisis.

What are the Differences Between Survivalists and Preppers?

1. Survivalists vs Preppers: Stockpiling

The primary difference between stockpiling and prepping is the approach and level of preparation. Stockpiling, often associated with prepping, is the act of gathering and storing supplies and equipment to sustain oneself and their family, usually for a short to medium-term period. Prepping, on the other hand, involves careful planning and resilience in order to be able to adapt to whatever life throws at you.

Preppers typically prioritize the stockpiling of labor-saving equipment and supplies, with the goal of sustaining themselves and their families with the necessary necessities in the case of a disruption in the normal supply chain. Survivalists, on the other hand, focus more on acquiring the skills and honing their bodies and minds to be better prepared for whatever situation they may find themselves in. They are more likely to be willing to give up the luxuries of society in favor of hardening themselves against any lack of resources. Ultimately, both preppers and survivalists have the same goal in mind – to survive – just with different approaches.

2. Survivalists vs Preppers: Supplies

Survivalists and preppers may have different approaches to their goals, but they have some common supplies. These include fuel, fuel stabilizers, food, water, first aid kits, tools, and communication devices. Survivalists may also stock extra items such as knives, shelter, clothing, and fire starters. Preppers may be more likely to stock items such as generators, flashlights, and other electrical items. Both survivalists and preppers should also be sure to store plenty of batteries and matches. Additionally, having items such as potable water filters, rainwater collection systems, and alternative forms of energy, such as solar or wind, can be beneficial for both parties. Finally, both survivalists and preppers should also consider items such as books, maps, and guides to help them navigate any potential disaster.

3. Survivalists vs Preppers: Skill Sets

Survivalists and preppers share the same goal of surviving any impending disaster, but their preparation styles vary greatly. Preppers are focused on stockpiling supplies to use in their bug in or bug out location and having the skills to use them. Survivalists, on the other hand, focus more heavily on the skills they possess to get them through an SHTF (sh*t hits the fan) scenario, and usually do not stockpile preps beyond what they can carry in a rucksack.

The key differences between survivalists and preppers come down to skills and stuff. A survivalist will generally be better equipped to live off the land and survive with only their everyday carry bag, while a prepper will rely more heavily on their stockpiled supplies and their bug in or bug out location. Survivalists are usually lone wolves, and have the skills to survive in the deep woods, while preppers plan on staying stationary at their bug-in or bug-out location.

The skill sets for survivalists and preppers include skills such as primitive camping, hunting and trapping, fire building, navigation, and wilderness survival. Preppers should also have the ability to use their stockpiled supplies, as well as the skills needed to maintain and repair their bug out location and other equipment.

4. Survivalists vs Preppers: Gear

The main difference between preppers and survivalists is the way they prepare for potential disasters. Preppers generally focus on stockpiling supplies that can last for months, whereas survivalists rely more heavily on acquiring and honing skills, as well as utilizing resources in their surroundings.

In terms of gear, preppers are more likely to invest in labor-saving equipment such as solar panels, generators, and other items that can help them to sustain their lives with minimal disruption. Survivalists, on the other hand, are more likely to forgo luxuries and technology in order to harden their minds and bodies against the coming lack of resources. They will typically have a few key items, such as knives and fire-making tools, in order to survive with minimal resources.

Overall, both preppers and survivalists have the same objective of surviving a disaster, but they have different approaches to achieving this goal. Preppers focus on having enough supplies to last a certain amount of time, whereas survivalists prioritize having the skills and resources to survive with minimal disruption.

5. Survivalists vs Preppers: Retreats

Survivalists and preppers both strive to be prepared for disasters, however their preparation styles greatly differ. Survivalists don’t typically stock up on supplies but rather rely on their skills and knowledge to survive. On the other hand, preppers will stock up on necessary supplies, such as food, medicines, and other necessities that will last for months.

When it comes to retreats, survivalists are more likely to travel around their environment and go primitive camping, while preppers will usually stay in one spot, like their bug-in or bug-out location, until it’s no longer feasible. Preppers typically rely on their group for survival and will cooperate with their family, neighbors, and even outside assistance. Survivalists, on the other hand, are more independent and prefer to rely on themselves and those closest to them for survival, living off the land and existing as a self-contained unit.

6. Survivalists vs Preppers: Self-Reliance

Self-reliance is the ability to provide for oneself and one’s family in any situation. It is the practice of being prepared for any situation, whether it is a natural disaster, civil emergency, or other SHTF event. Preppers and survivalists are both dedicated to self-reliance, though they approach it in different ways.

Preppers tend to focus on stockpiling supplies, such as food, water, medical supplies, and other items that can be used in an emergency. They are also knowledgeable about home security and survival skills. Preppers are often seen as planning for various types of disasters and preparing their home and family to survive any situation.

Survivalists, on the other hand, focus more on the development of survival skills. This includes things like hunting, fishing, building shelters, fire-starting, and navigation. Survivalists also typically have a strong knowledge of the natural environment and the ability to use and identify wild plants, animals, and other natural resources.

Both preppers and survivalists have an important role to play in self-reliance, as each has a different set of skills and resources. A combination of the two lifestyles, referred to as a “survival homestead,” can provide the best chance of surviving a SHTF event. This approach combines the stockpiling of supplies, as well as traditional homesteading activities, such as raising food and gathering wild resources.

In conclusion, preppers and survivalists have different approaches to self-reliance, but both are necessary for effective preparedness and survival. A combination of the two approaches is often the best bet for surviving a SHTF event, as it provides the best of both worlds.

7. Survivalists vs Preppers: Homesteads

Survivalists and preppers both strive to become self-reliant and prepare for any type of disaster that might come their way, whether it be a SHTF event or a natural disaster. The main difference between the two lies in the type of lifestyle they choose to pursue in order to achieve their goal.

Preppers typically choose to store food and supplies in order to survive for a long-term period of time, as well as being prepared for any type of disaster. They also often have stockpiles of medical supplies and first aid equipment in order to be ready for any medical emergency. They are also often very knowledgeable about home and vehicle repair and maintenance.

On the other hand, survivalists tend to focus more on their skillset and the ability to survive in the wilderness, such as hunting, fishing, and foraging for wild edibles. They also learn about tracking, navigation, and building shelters. They may also have some knowledge of medicine, but it tends to be more general in nature and not very specialized.

However, a new concept of “survival homesteading” has emerged in recent years, where both prepper and survivalist lifestyles are blended together. This type of individual is equipped with both the traditional survival skills of the survivalist, as well as the stockpiling and resource management of the prepper. They have the ability to hunt and fish, forage for wild edibles, and grow their own food and medicine. They also typically have skill sets that allow them to repair and maintain their home and property.

In conclusion, preppers and survivalists may have different approaches to achieving self-reliance and preparedness, but they both have the same goal in mind: to ensure their own safety and the safety of their loved ones in the event of a disaster or SHTF event.

8. Survivalists vs Preppers: Grid Skills

Grid skills refer to skills necessary to survive in a disaster or other off-grid situation, such as starting a fire, cooking, gathering food, shelter-building, hunting, and other primitive skills. Survivalists are typically more focused on having the skills necessary to survive in the wilderness, whereas preppers typically focus more on having the supplies, technologies, and strategies necessary to sustain a lifestyle in a more urban or populated environment. Survivalists often sacrifice some of the comforts of modern society in order to build physical and mental resilience, whereas preppers tend to be more focused on keeping the same comforts of modern society available during an emergency.

The importance of having both prepping and survival skills cannot be overstated, as both are necessary to truly thrive in a disaster situation or off-grid lifestyle. Preppers can prepare for disasters by stocking up on non-perishable food and other supplies, while survivalists learn the necessary skills to survive in the wild. Additionally, grid skills such as starting a fire and cooking with traditional methods, as well as hunting and butchering game, can be very useful in surviving disasters or off-grid living.

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9. Survivalists vs Preppers: Mindset

The mindset of preppers and survivalists differ in their approach to emergency preparedness. Preppers focus on stockpiling goods and supplies to get them through a crisis, while survivalists strive to develop skills and prepare to adapt to the changed environment. Preppers will usually try to remain connected to society and their existing community until the crisis becomes too much, while survivalists will be less likely to rely on modern amenities, instead choosing to harden their bodies and minds in preparation for the difficult times ahead. Ultimately, preppers and survivalists both share the goal of surviving any impending disaster, but their methods for achieving this goal are very different.

10. Survivalists vs Preppers: Wilderness Survival

The relationship between wilderness survival and survivalism is an important one. Wilderness survival is a skill set that allows individuals to survive and thrive in an environment without relying on the normal comforts of civilization and modern amenities that are otherwise taken for granted. Survivalism, on the other hand, is more focused on preparing for any possible disaster or catastrophe by stockpiling supplies and equipment to last for months or even years.

Both survivalists and preppers share the common goal of surviving any potential disaster or catastrophe, but they take different approaches to achieving this goal. Survivalists are more likely to be lone wolves, prepared to move around their environment and skilled enough to live off the land. Preppers, by contrast, plan to remain stationary and only leave their bugout location as a last resort.

In conclusion, wilderness survival and survivalism are closely related, with each requiring the other to be successful. Wilderness survival requires knowledge and skills to be able to find food, shelter, and other essential resources needed for survival, while survivalism requires the prepping of supplies and equipment to sustain oneself and one’s family until the situation improves.

11. Survivalists vs Preppers: Bugout Plans

The biggest difference between a survivalist and a prepper when it comes to a bug-out plan is the duration. A prepper is typically preparing to survive a short-term event, while a survivalist is preparing for an extended period of time.

Preppers will have bug-out bags packed with food, water, clothing and shelter supplies, ready to hit the road in an emergency. A survivalist will often have a bug-out vehicle as well as primitive camping skills for living in the wild for longer periods of time. Preppers will typically plan to stay at a bug-in or bug-out location, while a survivalist will usually only stay in one place if they happen to live in a remote area with sustainable natural resources. Ultimately, if you are able to get dropped off in the wilderness and survive with nothing more than what is in your everyday carry bag, then you are a survivalist.

12. Survivalists vs Preppers: Militia Movements

Survivalists and preppers are both individuals who prepare for potential disasters, such as nuclear attack, civil war, or economic collapse. Survivalists often take active defensive preparations that may involve firearms and military tactics. Preppers, on the other hand, are more focused on stockpiling resources and buying remote properties in which to “bug out.”

The origins of survivalism and prepping can be traced to the aftermath of World War II and the advent of the nuclear age, when people wanted to know what to do in the event of a major disaster. Both survivalists and preppers focus on ensuring their own safety and survival, but preppers also focus on providing for their family and community in the event of a crisis.

In terms of similarities, both survivalists and preppers have the same ultimate goal – to survive any potential disasters that may arise. They both strive to be self-sufficient, stocking up on food, medical supplies, and other basic necessities. They may also invest in remote properties to bug out in case of emergency.

The main difference between survivalists and preppers is the focus of their preparation. Survivalists often take active defensive measures that have military roots, while preppers tend to focus more on stockpiling resources and planning escape routes. Another difference is that preppers often look to provide for their families and community in the event of a crisis, while survivalists focus more on individual survival.

13. Survivalists vs Preppers: Self-Sufficiency

Self-sufficiency is the ability to provide for one’s own needs without relying on outside sources. It involves a mixture of multiple skills, from growing and raising food to repairing vehicles, as well as traditional survival skills such as hunting and foraging.

Survivalists and preppers are both striving for self-sufficiency, but generally approach it from different angles. Survivalists focus on traditional skills such as hunting and tracking, utilizing the resources of the natural environment to meet their needs. Preppers, on the other hand, tend to take a more modern approach, stocking up on supplies and learning various repair and maintenance skills.

The most successful approach to self-sufficiency, however, is one that combines the best of both worlds. Survival homesteaders are increasingly incorporating elements of both prepping and survivalism in order to create a truly self-sufficient lifestyle. This involves a combination of skills, including growing and preserving food, stockpiling supplies, hunting and foraging, and being able to repair and maintain home and vehicle systems. By taking a holistic approach to self-sufficiency, survival homesteaders are better prepared to weather any SHTF event.

14. Survivalists vs Preppers: Off-Grid Living

The main difference between off-grid living and prepping is the approach taken to achieve their ultimate goal. Off-grid living involves living without reliance on public utilities and services, with a focus on self-sufficiency and independence from traditional sources of energy and food. Prepping, on the other hand, involves stockpiling resources and making detailed plans of action to ensure that one can survive and thrive in the face of any disaster or mishap.

Survivalists, who are prepared to live off the land and move around their environment, have a more primitive approach to prepping and are often lone wolves. Preppers, however, strive to remain stationary, only leaving their bugin or bugout location as a last resort.

Preppers emphasize the stockpiling of gear and detailed planning while a survivalist may only be equipped with their everyday carry bag and whatever resources they can find in the surrounding environment. A survival homesteader is a combination of the two, with a focus on both acquiring necessary supplies and honing survival skills.

Ultimately, the best way to ensure survival during a SHTF event is to combine the best of both worlds: prepping and survivalism. By stockpiling resources, making detailed plans of action, and honing survival skills, one can increase their chances of surviving and thriving during difficult times.

15. Survivalists vs Preppers: Firearm Usage

Survivalists and preppers differ significantly in terms of firearm usage. Survivalists are more likely to rely on their own hunting and combat skills, often relying on handmade weapons like bows, knives and machetes since they do not have easy access to ammunition. Preppers, on the other hand, are hoarders and have access to firearms and ammunition, which makes them more adept at using guns for self-defense. In addition, preppers often have enough ammo to last through the long term, and can easily access ammo and other materials in exchange for money. Survivalists, however, must rely on their own skills and resources and are often unable to find the necessary resources when the need arises.

16. Survivalists vs Preppers: Foraging and Trapping

When it comes to foraging and trapping, there are distinct differences between survivalists and preppers. Survivalists are willing to take greater risks and are more willing to hunt, forage, fish, and trap for their meals. Preppers, on the other hand, are more likely to remain stationary and rely on their stockpiles of food and supplies.

Survivalists are usually lone wolves, travelling and living off the land with only what they can carry in their backpack. Preppers, however, plan to stay in their bug-out or bug-in locations and only leave as a last resort. This means they are more likely to have heavier outdoor cooking supplies and a larger pantry with long-term food storage.

In terms of skills, survivalists will have a greater focus on acquiring the skills necessary to live in the wilderness, such as primitive camping, fishing, and trapping. Preppers, on the other hand, will focus more on stockpiling resources and skills such as gardening, cooking, and self-defense. Survivalists also understand that during a disaster, there are no hunting seasons and resources will be reduced, so they need to be prepared to face these challenges.

In conclusion, the differences between survivalists and preppers when it comes to foraging and trapping are evident. Survivalists are more likely to take risks and acquire the skills necessary to forage and trap in the wilderness, while preppers tend to focus more on stockpiling supplies and resources.

17. Survivalists vs Preppers: Prepper Stocks

Preppers stock up on supplies to last them for months in cases of natural disasters, economic collapse, or any other catastrophe that could disrupt their daily lives. Examples of these supplies include non-perishable food and water, clothing, medical supplies, tactical weapons and ammunition, shelter and bedding, tools and equipment, and fuel. Preppers also stock up on communication and navigational equipment, survival books and manuals, and other useful items for emergency situations.

On the other hand, survivalists rely on their acquired skills and resources in their surroundings to survive in an emergency situation. This means they may not have any supplies with them as they are more focused on finding resources and ways to survive in wild and challenging environments. However, they usually have certain items such as a knife, fire-starting kit, and medical supplies that they carry with them.

The main difference between preppers and survivalists is in their approach to preparing for emergencies. Preppers focus on stockpiling supplies and planning ahead to ensure they can continue with their lives relatively unaffected by any disaster that might occur. Survivalists, on the other hand, are convinced it is only a matter of time before a disaster happens and have chosen to live accordingly. They may opt to live off the land and rely on their skills to survive, or they may live in a more primitive lifestyle with few connections to society and technology.

18. Survivalists vs Preppers: Apocalypse Beliefs

Survivalists and preppers are those who practice preparing for imminent apocalyptic destruction of society. Their beliefs focus on practical steps for survival of the end of the world as we know it, such as stockpiling resources, planning escape routes, and buying remote properties in which to ‘bug out’. The focus is on how to survive these events without a functioning human society.

Some survivalists have a specific theological eschatology; most often Christian, which suggests the world is currently, or soon will be, in a period of Tribulation. This Tribulation is said to be the period of hardships and troubles suffered by believers preceding the Millennium. On the other hand, there are also many secular survivalists who do not hold any particular religious beliefs.

19. Survivalists vs Preppers: Resources for Survivalism

Both survivalists and preppers have access to resources to help them survive any apocalyptic scenario. Survivalists hone their skills to become confident in their ability to forage, hunt, and provide for themselves without the help of the system. Preppers, on the other hand, plan ahead and stockpile resources over a long period of time, gathering enough supplies to be able to survive a long-term system breakdown. There are different levels of resources available to preppers based on their level of preparation; some have only a small collection of items while others may have a secure emergency shelter with enough resources to sustain them. Hardcore preppers are the most prepared, having secured enough resources to survive the worst.

20. Survivalists vs Preppers: Verdict

The verdict regarding the differences between survivalists and preppers is that they share the same goal of surviving and surviving well in the event of a disaster. However, the approach they take to achieve this goal varies significantly. Survivalists are confident in their ability to stay alive and thrive due to the skills they have honed, while preppers take a more prepared approach, amassing resources from the functioning society and storing them away for future use. Preppers can be further divided into casuals, who have a moderate amount of resources stored away, and hoarders, who have a large amount of resources.

Which Group is Better-Suited for You?

1. If you are a survivalist, you believe that society will eventually break down, and you have made preparations for this event.

Survivalists make preparations for a society break down in a variety of ways. This includes stocking up on food and supplies, establishing communication channels, building bunkers, saving money, and learning survival techniques. They also make preparations for potential natural disasters and doomsday scenarios, such as earthquakes, floods, power outages, blizzards, avalanches, wildfires, terrorist attacks, nuclear power plant accidents, hazardous material spills, tornadoes, and hurricanes. Additionally, they focus on long-term survival rather than the conditions returning to normal, and plan for the worst-case scenarios in terms of food supply, shelter, water and sanitation, first aid, communication and defense.

2. If you are a prepper, you believe that a catastrophe may occur, and you have made preparations for this event.

Preppers and survivalists both have the goal of surviving a crisis situation, but their methods of preparing for it are quite different. Preppers are modern survivalists who focus on gathering food and supplies that will last them for a certain period, such as weeks or months, and building bunkers, saving money, and establishing communication channels in case of a catastrophe. On the other hand, survivalists are people who focus on equipping themselves with the knowledge and skills necessary to survive any kind of disaster and making themselves ready for long-term survival.

The primary difference between preppers and survivalists is in the duration of their preparations. Preppers typically prepare for a short-term crisis, believing that the crisis will not last beyond their supplies running out, while survivalists are prepared to survive a long-term crisis. Preppers are better suited for disasters that are likely to pass quickly, such as natural disasters and pandemics, while survivalists are more suitable for disasters that are likely to last for a longer period, such as prolonged power outages, civil unrest, and terrorist attacks.

Preppers are also more likely to have a stockpile of food and supplies, while survivalists are more likely to focus on developing the skills that are necessary for survival, such as hunting and trapping, navigation, and self-defense. Preppers should also consider learning some of the skills that survivalists have in order to be fully prepared for any kind of disaster.

In conclusion, preppers and survivalists both have the goal of surviving a crisis situation, but their preparation methods and the duration of their preparations differ. Preppers are better suited for short-term disasters while survivalists are better suited for long-term disasters. Both groups should consider learning skills from the other group in order to be better prepared for any kind of disaster.

3. Survivalists rely on themselves and their own resources, whereas preppers rely on outside help in case of emergencies.

The key difference between survivalists and preppers lies in their preparation style and flexibility. Preppers rely heavily on their stockpiles for survival, while survivalists are more flexible and capable of finding resources from the wild. Survivalists are savvier at finding food and shelter in an unpredictable environment and may know how to make their own weapons from scratch. Preppers, on the other hand, can access easy resources with money, but may not be as adept in using weapons. Preppers are more focused on accumulating necessary equipment to sustain themselves and their families, while survivalists are better prepared to adapt to an unexpected life.

4. Survivalists tend to live on their land and grow their own food, whereas preppers stock up on food and supplies in case of emergencies.

The primary difference between a survivalist and a prepper is their preparation style and the flexibility they exhibit. Preppers tend to rely on their stockpiled resources, while survivalists are more flexible and rely on their knowledge and acquired skills to survive. Preppers build up their resources ahead of time, while survivalists are focused on minimalism and acquiring the necessary skills to adapt and survive in any situation. Preppers may have the necessary resources to survive, but they lack the skills or knowledge to adapt and survive in an unpredictable environment. Survivalists, on the other hand, know how to find basic resources and shelter and are often capable of using and making weapons from scratch without relying too heavily on their stockpile.

5. Survivalists focus on survival, self-reliance and survival skills, whereas preppers focus on emergency kits and supplies.

Survivalists and preppers both strive to survive a potentially catastrophic event that disrupts the normal way of life. However, they differ in their approach to preparing for the worst. Preppers typically take a more organized approach by stocking up on supplies that can last for months, while survivalists rely on their own acquired skills and resources in their environment. Additionally, preppers are usually more focused on sustaining themselves and their families with labor-saving equipment, while survivalists seek to harden their bodies and minds for the potential lack of resources. Moreover, preppers are less flexible than survivalists as they rely on their stockpiles for survival, while survivalists are more versatile in their ability to find resources in any setting. Also, preppers do not possess the same level of survival skills as survivalists, while survivalists are better equipped with proper hunting weapons and the knowledge of how to use them.

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6. Survivalists train in a variety of survival skills, whereas preppers train in emergency preparedness.

The main difference between survivalists and preppers is in their preparation styles. Survivalists are adept in using their acquired skills and the resources in their environment to survive, while preppers focus on stocking up on supplies and equipment that will last for months. Preppers also plan to stay at their bugin or bugout location, while survivalists only consider remaining in one place if they are in a remote area with sustainable natural resources. Furthermore, survivalists are more flexible than preppers as preppers heavily rely on their stockpiles for survival. Survivalists also have an advantage over preppers, as they are skilled in shooting, using tools, and have knowledge of geography. Both parties, however, have the same goal in mind: to survive and be prepared for any disaster or economic collapse.

7. Survivalists build bunkers and prepare for societal breakdowns, whereas preppers build emergency kits and prepare for natural disasters.

The differences between survivalists and preppers can be described in terms of their preparation styles and goals. Preppers are more concerned with sustaining themselves and their families through the accumulation of labor-saving equipment and necessities that will last for months, whereas survivalists focus more on acquiring skills and adapting to life based on the resources in their surrounding environment. Survivalists are more likely to give up luxuries of civilization in order to harden their bodies and minds, whereas preppers strive to remain a part of society until it is no longer tenable. The two supreme differences between survivalists and preppers are skills and stuff. Survivalists are often lone wolves, while preppers plan to be stationary. Survivalists are skilled enough to survive alone in the deep woods, while preppers rely on their bugin or bugout location. Furthermore, preppers are prepping for disasters that may come, while survivalists are trying to learn the skills and techniques needed to fit the changes. Lastly, preppers typically think that the events they have prepared for will pass before things return to normal, while survivalists are more likely to plan for a longer-term survival.

8. Survivalists are more likely to own firearms, whereas preppers are more likely to own supplies and equipment.

Preppers are more likely to own firearms than survivalists, according to statistics. A recent study found that nearly 70% of preppers own at least one gun, while only 40% of survivalists do. This could possibly be due to the fact that preppers rely on their stockpile of resources, and having a firearm is seen as a way to protect and preserve that stockpile. Additionally, preppers may feel that having a gun is a way of ensuring their safety and the safety of their family in the event of a disaster. On the other hand, survivalists are more likely to rely on their own skills and the resources in their environment, and may not see the need for firearms in those situations.

9. Survivalists focus on self-sufficiency and autonomy, whereas preppers focus on preparedness and safety.

Survivalists and preppers have the same goal of surviving any disaster or catastrophe that may arise. However, they differ in the way they prepare and execute their plans. A survivalist is more self-reliant, living off the resources available in their surroundings and using their acquired skills to survive. On the other hand, a prepper is more reliant on stockpiling supplies that can last for months. Preppers prefer to be a part of a community and strive to remain a part of the society, while survivalists are willing to give up the luxuries and comforts of civilization and harden both their bodies and minds against the coming lack thereof. Furthermore, survivalists are more flexible than preppers since they can find resources anywhere, while preppers are confined to their stockpiles. Ultimately, both survivalists and preppers want the same thing but the way they try to get it is fundamentally different.