Offgrid Preparation Editor’s Letter
There’s an African proverb that says, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” This publication has always been about more than cool gear and interesting people. It’s about building community, fostering self-reliance, and finding strength in working together. Now, as we move through some significant changes, I’m stepping into a new role, following in the footsteps of someone who truly embodied that collaborative spirit.
Patrick McCarthy, my predecessor, has moved on to pursue new opportunities, and with his departure, RECOIL OFFGRID marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. Patrick’s leadership, unwavering passion, and thoughtful guidance have been foundational to shaping this publication into what it is today. Not only did he set a high bar, but he also fostered a place where creativity and innovation thrived. To Patrick, I want to say thank you for your mentorship, and for leading RECOIL OFFGRID through some challenging times with such steady hands.
Looking back on the past five years feels surreal. I started my journey with RECOIL OFFGRID as a freelancer in December of 2019. My first article, “Secrets of Traditional Knowledge,” appeared in Issue 39. From there, I took the reins of the Gear Up column for several years before becoming associate editor in 2023.
Working alongside incredibly talented editors like Tom Marshall and Patrick McCarthy has been humbling and inspiring. It’s because of teamwork with individuals like them that the brand has come as far as it has. Now, as we step into the future, that same spirit of collaboration will continue to carry us forward.
I’m also excited to introduce our new Associate Editor Nick Italiano. Nick is a loving father, a dedicated survivalist, and the founder of Black Flag Survival. He’s passionate about self-reliance and sharing those skills with others. I have no doubt he’ll bring fresh ideas and new energy to our team. Nick’s enthusiasm for learning and helping others is exactly what this publication is all about.
That sense of going far together ties right into the theme of this issue: Stay Put or Bug Out? In these uncertain times, the ability to adapt to rapid, often tumultuous change is more important than ever. Jason Salyer and Mark Linderman, two seasoned experts, dig into what they’d do if the 911 system went down for an undetermined amount of time. Trauma therapist Tom Sarge weighs in on why mental resilience is just as critical as prepping your gear.
We also take you inside the PNW Survival Games, a competition that equips the average person with life-saving skills. And for anyone debating the age-old question of whether hunkering down or getting out of Dodge is the right course of action, Jim Cobb breaks down the factors that should guide your decision.
Before I close, I want to take a moment to thank my better half. Without her constant support, encouragement, and love, I wouldn’t be where I am today. She’s my bulwark in the storm, and her belief in me keeps me moving forward. As that proverb reminds us, it’s the people we surround ourselves with who help us go far. She’s been with me every step of the way, and for that, I’m eternally grateful.
RECOIL OFFGRID has seen many changes over the years, and there are certainly more to come. But with our shared knowledge, tight-knit community, and commitment to helping each other grow, I’m confident we’ll continue to move forward — together.
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Editor's Note: This article has been modified from its original print version for the web.
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