It isn't a matter of training or military experience. It's a matter of common sense. If I know I'm away from my unit for any period of time, I will have food for myself for more than the time I'm expected to be away. Sure, my experience level helps me decide the most effective way to carry that food and how to get the most of out the least amount, but he should be able to figure out to bring some food. Anyone who has been deployed can tell you complacency kills. I understand that it was a whirlwind of action for him from leaving the colony to where they're at now, but the dude can't think ahead. He seems like he's always asking questions and never really has any ideas.

Here's my problem with picking up brass to reload. If it's military, it's much harder to reload with civilian equipment. Even if it's not, it's still a time consuming process. I get being short on ammo, but there are better options than trying to set up a reloading station, making sure your loads are reliable and somewhat accurate, and taking the time to reload. You're less likely to find more powder, primers, and bullets than you are boxes of ammo. I'd say they policed up their brass to hide caliber/numbers more than to reload.