Had some interesting commentary here and over at Total Survivalist that I wanted to follow up on.
First - why $1k? Round, attainable number. Enough to do some, but not enough to do everything. Some compromises have to be made, and limitations often end up driving creativity. Things get start to get interesting.
I didn't prepare my list list with any specific circumstances / situation in mind, but instead went with gear that I use daily. It's already intended to get me through a pretty bad day. Short of open warfare, this is the stuff that I would want at hand.
Are these $1k cache lists a good 'starting point' for someone just getting into preparedness? I'd say yes and no. A good portion of my $1k budget was spent on clothing--hopefully noob preppers already have some clothing--and a Glock. For someone brand new to prepping, owned no guns, only had $1k to spend, I don't know if I'd have 'em blow half their budget on Austrian tupperware.
Outside of that, then sure, there are certainly some good ideas in my list and other lists shared in the contents. I typically steer folks to every day carry, then vehicle kit and then to start building food, water storage and other capabilities at home, so keep that in mind, too. If you are new and need some guidance, hit me up in the comments section with questions and I'll be glad to help steer you in the right direction.
Looks like Total Survivalist has posted up his own take on the $1k kit, too - in fact, he's doubled down with two separate lists. Check 'em out.