I have always lived a pretty frugal rural life and I have a bone to pick with the author about a firearm not being the most important thing- I would say it certainly is. If one is truly going to “pioneer” they will need a firearm to defend themselves from critters that might want to snack on them as well as to defend themselves and their possessions from two legged threats.
It is true that a firearm alone will not guarantee your survival; if you think you will use it to take what you need I can assure you there will be those that will take you out. Even so it is a vital part of basic long-term survival and anyone that says different is not being realistic.
I totally agree with you on the firearm point.
I understand your sentiment, but I disagree.
The most important thing?
... a will to survive.