Dear CNN,
STFU and stop talking out your asses. #1 The Crossbow is *not* an essential tool for surviving the Zombie Apocalypse.
It's slow to reload and requires a great deal of skill to use. Practice makes perfect but crossbow bolts break easily and can get lost whereas a .22 caliber rifle uses cheap & plentiful ammo and even a .22 can penetrate the skull.
#2 The chainsaw is *not* an essential tool for surviving the Zombie Apocalypse.
It's messy and sprays blood all over you and your friends, increasing the chance for infection. Way to go showoff, you just killed yourself and your friends!
#3 The samurai sword is *not* an essential tool for surviving the Zombie Apocalypse.
You're better off with a crowbar. As Alton Brown will tell you, a crowbar is a multi-tasker. And as anyone who's ever used a sword will tell you, a crowbar is less likely to get wedged between two bone plates at just the wrong moment.
#4 The anti-riot helmet is *not* an essential tool for surviving the Zombie Apocalypse.
Zombies don't really want to eat your braiiiiins. They just want to eat. A helmet that covers even part of your ears will get you killed. You're better off hatless so you can hear everything around you. Just ask Uncle Enzo.
#5 Damascus anti-riot armor is *not* an essential tool for surviving the Zombie Apocalypse.
You're better off with some riding leathers or 2 layers of heavy denim. You'll move faster and be less prone to getting tired when you're on the move. The forearm and elbow guards might come in handy if you get jumped, but you can get just as good protection from the gear in a sporting goods shop.
#6 The skull-face mask is *not* an essential tool for surviving the Zombie Apocalypse.
In fact, it's more likely to get you shot than get you a "cool mask dude, can I borrow it for my blind date on Friday night?"
#7 You finally got one right with night vision goggles.
All in all the
ATN PS15-4 is a solid choice and I agree with adding it to a Zombie Apocalypse equipment list. It's hands-free, runs off AA batteries, has a good operating temperature range, and the all important IR flood for in-building recon when all the lights really *have* gone out. Just remember to lay in a supply of rechargeable Li-ion batteries and a recharger with the goggles or you're only good for 40hrs.
And kudos to the
CDC for taking the time to write up a preparedness page and
selling t-Shirts. Keep those tongues firmly planted in your cheeks guys, a little humor goes a long way.