The Upper Hand of Standalone Optics For Urban Prepping

Monocular Binoculars for Urban Preparedness Blog and Survival Vortex Solo FIVE ABOVE SIX BELOW

When the aim of the game is visual observation, a little added detail can go a long way. But unless you're a hunter - two legs or four - standalone optics may not yet have a home in your urban prepping plans. As much as we'd all like to claim perfect vision, the truth is that we could all use a touch of help. So, perhaps it's time to give yourself the added edge and start seeing things a little more clearly.

A Whole New World

Whether glassing the street or conducting reconnaissance, the ability to obtain accurate information relies on both clarity and distance. While the added detail bolsters our ability to make informed decisions, the distance can provide much needed safety and concealment. By utilizing standalone optics - like a monocular or set of binoculars - we're able to identify opportunities or threats before we take our first steps, all while avoiding the distractions of a weapon-mounted optic. In an environment where concealment is a priority, a pocket-sized device can make a world of difference in urban survival.

A Closer Look

When purchasing a handheld device like this, there are a couple important factors to consider. The first is easy - buy from a reputable company that makes optics with clear glass and bomb-proof construction. The second is about magnification. While it's easy to be tempted by double-digits, you need to remember that the magnification also amplifies your movement. A small shake of the hand will translate to a massive pitch downrange. Utilizing an 8x or 10x optic will allow you to quickly find and maintain your image but will also provide a greater field of view for objects on the move. Beyond this level of magnification, you may want to consider a mounted solution.

A Personal Favorite

Though I've had a number of optics over the years, I've come to appreciate the form and function of the Vortex Solo Monocular (10x36). Compact and easy to carry, this monocular has a ruggedized exterior and sealed tube, ensuring that the optic will remain unaffected by the environment. At this magnification, I'm able to read license plates at 100 yards and view most movement up to 600. May as well be a superpower. They have also included a utility clip, which allows me to throw it on the belt or pocket between use, though there is also a decent pouch included. If you're on the hunt for more details, I highly recommend that you head over to the Survival Cache as they've written up a fantastic review of the 8x model.

A Quick Glance

While I will touch on surveillance a little more in the future, adding standalone optics to your kit will provide untold benefits. Early identification of problems during an urban survival situation can mean the difference between life and death, while I can assure you that you'll find plenty of use in the best of times. Whether you're scanning a facade or surveilling your route, make sure you're giving yourself the best chance possible. There's always something just beyond our view, so don't miss out on those life-saving details.

How do you see optics fitting into your Urban Prepping PLANs?

Sticking to the Menu When Building An Urban PrepPing Pantry

While long-term food supplies seem to capture our hearts, many don't sufficiently plan for what is required inside of a year. It's easy to get carried away with our short-term selection, but the problem with non-perishable food like canned goods, is that we tend to contribute just a little too much to landfill. So how do we buck this trend when prepping for events like job loss or natural disaster? We plan our urban preparedness pantry around our daily menu.

On Shotguns: Shotgun Breaching For The Urban Prepper

We've all encountered a locked barrier at some point in our lives. Locked keys in the car? Call roadside assistance. Late night as a teen? There's a basement window for that. At the end of the day, these are all easy fixes with ample opportunity. But in an urban survival scenario where self-rescue is required - and a locked door may hold you or your loved ones firmly in harm's way - a heavy-handed solution may be the only way to safety. If a lockpick or hard kick won't clear a path, perhaps it's time to knock a little louder. Enter the shotgun.

The Nail That Sticks Out Gets Hammered

During a period of civil unrest, you're either a number or a target. No matter how well equipped you or your small group may be for conflict, full battle rattle is going to draw a world of unwanted attention from the hoods and have-nots. That overt plate carrier and camo you're wearing? The city will eventually swallow you whole, thinking you're another cop, criminal, or loot drop. But at what point does our affinity for load bearing equipment or camo become a liability in urban preparedness? With big city problems, I figure it's sooner rather than later.