In the wake of the re-election of history's most anti-American president, and the horrible events in Newtown that followed, we have received hundreds of e-mails and calls. Preppers across the nation are desperately trying to fill gaps in their preparations. Guns (all types, not just AR-15s), ammo, and magazines are in record high demand, and selling for record high prices. As prepared Americans, how should we view buying panics and price gouging, and what should we do about it?

Precious metals are often part of a well rounded battery of preparations. Whether you view them as an investment, or a hedge against inflation, or simply a universal currency, there are some things you need to consider.

The vast majority of people in the “prepper” movement are very careful with their money, choosing less expensive options for their tools, cars, clothing, survival gear, etc. Are they thrifty, or just cheap, and what's the difference?