As most that have been here for a while know, I believe that the "Grey Man" theory that many here have accepted as being the "Survival Gospel", as utter hogwash. I intend that this post be provactive in order to stimulate a constructive debate, not a mudslinging contest. Here are my views honed from real world experiences:
1. I believe that there is no such thing as the "Grey Man". In a SHTF situation where there is a near total destruction of accepted sociatal norms,(whether temporary or permanent), violent and or desperate people will attack you and take anything that they believe to be of value to them or anything that will help them survive.
2. The wearing of any type of rucksack, regardless of color or military or civilian model will make you a target.
3. It doesn't matter whether you wear civilian or military style clothing in these situations. If the hoard thinks you MAY possess ANYTHING of value and if you are not in a group that has parity of coersive force against the opposing group, you will be attacked if the other group thinks you are carrying anything of value.
Here is a vid that I know we've all seen from the London Riots:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Gex_ya4 ... tube_gdata" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
This guy was dressed the same as everyone else in the crowd, but was attacked because of his bicycle that he was riding (object of value) and then was mugged again because of his rucksack. (Another object of value.)
Some will say that he was robbed because he was Malaysian, but a quick review of the video will show you that his attackers consisted of blacks, whites and other asians and at least one of mixed race.
4. The "Grey Man" does not exist! If you must carry equipment, ie. rucksack, do not carry it where your movement can be readily viewed by the "Z's". If you must move, move quietly and only at night if possible. Avoid other people, crowds, roads, paths and anywhere people congregate.
Ok. Let the debate begin!
