GENERAL RULES

1. OBEY THE LAW!: Regulations governing weapons such as
frearms and explosives depend on your location. Follow them to
the letter. Punishment may range from a sizable fine to incarceration.
In any case, the resulting criminal record is something you
cannot afford! When the dead rise, law enforcement must look upon
you as a model citizen, someone to be trusted and left alone, not a
felon of questionable background who should be interrogated at the
first sign of trouble. Fomnately, as this chapter will show, simpler,
legal weapons will serve you much better than paramilitary death
machines.

2. TRAIN CONSTANTLY: No matter what weapon you choose,
from a simple machete to a semiautomatic rifle, it must become an
extension of your body. Practice as often as possible. If classes are
available, by all means sign up. Learning from qualified instructors
will save immense time and energy. If the device can he disassembled,
do so, both in sunlight and total darkness until you know every
pin, every spring, every curve and edge of that all-important
machine. With practice will come both experience and confidence,
two traits you must develop in order to successfully do battle with
the living dead. History has proven that a well-trained individual,
with nothing but a rock, has a better chance of survival than a novice
with the latest technological marvel.

3. CARE FOR YOUR TOOLS: Weapons, no matter how simple they
may be, must he cared for as if they were living things. Anyone with
firearm experience knows that inspection and cleaning are part of
everyday use. This also applies to close-combat weapons. Blades
need polish and rust protection. Grips need checking and maintenance.
Never abuse your tools or expose them to unnecessary damage.
If possible, have them tested regularly by experienced
professionals. These experts may detect early-stage defects imperceptible
to the amateur user.

4. BEWARE DISPLAY ITEMS: Many companies offer a variety of
replica weapons, such as swords, bows, etc., that are meant merely
for decoration. Always research your chosen item thoroughly and
ensure that it is intended for actual use in the real world. Do not rely
solely on the company's word. "Battle ready" may mean the item
could withstand a few blows on a theatrical stage, or at some historical
fair, but it will snap in half during a life-or-death confrontation.
If resources permit, purchase a duplicate item and train with it
to the breaking point. Only then should you trust in its abilities.

5. DEVELOP THE FIRST WEAPON: The human body, if cared for
and trained properly, is the greatest weapon on earth. Americans are
notorious for their bad diet, lack of exercise, and relentless fetish for
labor-saving technology. As recognizable as the term "couch
potato" is, a more accurate term would be "cattle": fat, lazy, listless,
and ready to he eaten. Weapon No. 1, the biological tool that is our
body, can and must be transformed from prey to predator. Obey a
strict diet and physical-fitness regimen. Concentrate on cardiovascular
instead of strength-building exercise. Monitor any chronic
health conditions you may have, no matter how small. Even if your
worst ailment is allergies, treat them regularly! When a situation
does arise, you must know exactly what your body is capable of!
Study and master at least one martial art. Make sure its emphasis is
on escaping holds rather than delivering blows. Knowing how to
slip from a zombie's clutches is the single most important skill yon
can possess when yon find yourself in close combat.