Ammonia and Black Powder in an Apocalyptic Scenario: A Survival Guide

The abrupt cessation of the current system, marked by ongoing conflicts and societal unrest, often poses significant challenges to survival. One crucial aspect is the availability of ammunition in the event of a collapse. Would people have to resort to making their own ammo, and if so, how? This article explores these questions, delving into the historical and practical aspects of black powder and ammunition.

The Role of Ammunition in Survival

Amidst the chaos, those emulating the meek and the obedient to God's will will thrive and inherit the earth, as prophesied in Matthew 5:5 and Psalm 37:9-11, 29. However, the practicalities of survival require a clear understanding of ammunition availability.

Most people would be out of ammunition within days, if not weeks, especially for those who have to relocate. Militaries and law enforcement typically control the largest stockpiles, but these would be rapidly depleted during any societal breakdown (SHTF) situation. In nations with strict gun control laws, civilian stockpiles would be minimal, making the availability of ammunition a significant challenge.

Ammonia and Military Stockpiles

The United States, known for its arms proliferation, still maintains stockpiles. However, the average American has only a couple of boxes of ammunition. Many cities and states have laws limiting the amount of ammunition one can store, with recreational shooters often consuming more in a single visit to the range than they typically have in storage. The logistics of maintaining a large stockpile of ammunition, especially in the event of a prolonged crisis, become quite daunting.

Given the prevalence of semi-automatic weapons, the common practice of using large volumes of ammunition for shooting ranges, and the typical expenditure of about 1,000 rounds in a single firefight, the vast majority of firearm owners would quickly exhaust their limited supplies. Firefights and prolonged conflicts could lead to the rapid depletion of available ammunition, with less than 1% of the population having enough ammo to sustain significant combat operations for more than a few months.

Alternative Ammunition: Black Powder

While most modern ammunition relies on volatile components like nitrocellulose, black powder offers a viable alternative for survival scenarios. However, the production of black powder and its applications involve a different set of challenges.

Black Powder: A Historical Alternative

Black powder, while less potent and less versatile than modern smokeless powders, is relatively easier to produce. The primary ingredients are charcoal, sulfur, and saltpeter (potassium nitrate). The availability of saltpeter, a key component, would initially pose a challenge but could be overcome with time and effort. Historically, it was common for individuals to produce small quantities of black powder, and this practice can be adapted to modern survival scenarios.

Primers and Smokeless Powder

Primers and smokeless powder, on the other hand, are far more complex to produce. Primers typically require specialized equipment and materials, and smokeless powder involves a process that requires a significant level of industrial infrastructure and expertise. The division of labor and resources necessary to manufacture these materials make them impractical for small groups or individuals.

Conclusion

While the traditional ammunition infrastructure would rapidly deplete in a SHTF situation, the production of black powder remains a viable option, especially with time and access to the necessary resources. For survivalists and preppers, understanding the production and use of black powder can be a critical skill in the event of societal breakdown. This knowledge, combined with the ability to repurpose and modify existing firearms, could significantly enhance one's chances of survival in an apocalyptic scenario.

Most importantly, adhering to principles of humility, patience, and obedience to divine will as outlined in the scriptures can provide a guiding light in navigating the turbulent times ahead.