Why is it that if you own a plate carrier and a GTW/SHTF kit, you are the crazy one?

I was talking with some buddies about airsoft. We all play and I was figuring that since I am swapping from a Korean War era kit to a more modern one, I would use this as a chance to get some really top-shelf tactical gear and get comfortable with it. Obviously this is no proper training, but getting used to the weights of plates and the kitted carrier, as well as finding the proper clothing would be invaluable. They looked at me like I was crazy.

Why would you need that stuff?
Do you think the world is gonna end?

I was so shocked by their replies, but looking at how people are encouraged to mock those who are taking efforts to be prepared for any catastrophe (think the Doomsday Preppers show) I can understand why. I do think that there is a concerted effort by some to make it seem as though everything is cool and stable when it really isn't the case. If you were in Luisianna during Katrina, would you have preferred to have supplies as a way to defend it? What about during the riots in LA, Ferguson, or Baltimore? These may be peace, but it isn't stable and to pretend that the balance will always be maintained is a dangerous belief. I do not know why people think that way, but I think the idea is most prevalent amongst those who look to the government first as a way to fix their problems. Sometimes you need to act for yourself, and having supplies which can keep you safe during storms, prolonged power outages/resource shortages, or civil unrest, and the means to defend those supplies, is the safest way to protect yourself and those dear.

-@roofcore