When the times get tough, the LAST thing I'd be giving up for trade is guns and ammo. Those are for me and my family and close friends. Possibly neighbors for neighborhood defense, but only after significant soul-searching looking at the pros and cons (and the specific neighbor).

What I can't understand is people stocking up on gold. Really, what use is gold? When the SHTF, will people be making massive amounts of jewelry? Or gold-plating contacts on electrical equipment? I can't think of many practical uses for the stuff once society starts breaking down.

Anyone who would trade something useful for alcohol is a dunce. So sure, I'd give 'em a few bottles of Stella Artois as a trade for <just_about_anything_else> if they were willing!