notthatwillsmith

I’ve spent what I can only describe as a ludicrous amount of time at my office discussing defense about the coming zombie apocalypse. We’ve talked about everything from the ultimate zombie killing weapon to the best way to defend our office. I read most of Max Brooks’ Zombie Survival Guide this weekend, and as a zombie enthusiast, I really enjoyed the book, I disagree with some of his advice.

He’s out of his mind about weapon choice, specifically the amount of ammunition to carry in a zombie attack scenario. If you leave your fortress with the amount of ammo he recommends (just a few hundred rounds) you’re going to have real problems getting back alive. He seriously discounts the zombie-killing power and potency of a .22 rimfire, which is perfectly suited for anti-zombie warfare. There aren’t many weapons that you can carry 5000 rounds of ammo without straining yourself, and deliver enough penetration power to take down the undead at 200 yards.

Brooks also neglected to mention the most fortress-like construct, available to refugees in almost any major area–the warehouse store. I’m sure he’s just saving his local Costco or Sam’s Warehouse for himself. Think about it, not only does your local Costco have an infinite supply of food, water, and even booze; it also has dozens of potential anti-zombie weapons, bedding, and outdoor clothing. They even stock supplies to help you make your escape, camping gear, bicycles, scooters, and weapons. Hell, warehouse stores even have generators and gas so you’ll have power to run the fridges and freezer sections. The building are virtual fortresses; built of cinderblock, with only a few easily secured entrances. They have roof access for perimeter patrol, and can easily hold several dozen refugees with plenty of room to move. When the zombie apocalypse comes, I’ll be at Costco.

The book is shockingly entertaining, though it does bog down by rehashing some of the advice two or three times for different scenarios (on the run, defense, hunting zombies) the entertainment factor picks right back up when Brooks gets into the (fictional?!) accounts of zombie attacks through the ages.

The book’s good. You should read it.