tactical survival books essential

13 Best Tactical Survival Books Every Prepper Should Have in Their Library

You need the best tactical survival books for any situation. Consider 'Contact! A Tactical Manual' for small unit tactics. 'SAS Survival Handbook' covers critical survival essentials and mental readiness. 'Tactical Combat Casualty Care' focuses on trauma treatment. Explore 'Shadow Survival' for tactical awareness. 'Survival Instinct' adds drama and canine insight. Look into 'Tactical Manual' for small unit strategies. '100 Deadly Skills Book' offers SEAL techniques. Make sure books have diverse skills, real-world applications, and practical illustrations. Choose authors with credible tactical backgrounds. These books prepare you for emergencies and teach crucial survival skills subtly hinting at more insights ahead.

What You Will Learn Here

  • Authors with military and survival expertise.
  • Comprehensive coverage of tactical skills.
  • Practical applicability to real-world scenarios.
  • Clear illustrations and diagrams for guidance.
  • Balance of theory and hands-on training.

Contact! A Tactical Manual for Post Collapse Survival

post collapse survival tactical guide

For those looking for a comprehensive guide on tactical survival tailored to armed civilians and their likely situations, 'Contact! A Tactical Manual for Post Collapse Survival' is the best choice. Authored by Max, this manual excels in presenting small unit tactics in a systematically progressive manner with helpful diagrams.

The book stands out for its clear writing, free of common errors, making complex military tactics understandable. Max's approach of teaching fundamental concepts over providing quick solutions equips readers for real-world scenarios.

The 2nd edition explores further into tactical training applicable to armed citizens, breaking down military manuals into actionable tasks. This resource is invaluable for individuals without military experience, offering practical insights and preparing you for potential threats to your family and community.

Best For: Those seeking a comprehensive tactical survival guide tailored to armed civilians and their likely situations.

Pros:

  • Clear and systematic presentation of small unit tactics with helpful diagrams.
  • Well-written and edited, making complex military tactics easily understandable.
  • Focuses on teaching fundamental concepts for real-world scenarios rather than quick solutions.

Cons:

  • Some parts of the manual may heavily emphasize firearms.

SAS Survival Handbook, Third Edition

comprehensive guide to survival

Packed with essential survival skills and strategies, the SAS Survival Handbook, Third Edition is a must-have guide for preppers looking to enhance their preparedness for emergencies. Authored by John 'Lofty' Wiseman, a former SAS soldier, this book published by HarperCollins Publishers in 2014 offers thorough survival guidance. It emphasizes key skills such as fire building, shelter construction, and food knowledge.

The handbook outlines three key principles for survival: Will to Live, Knowledge, and Kit, underscoring the significance of preparation and quick thinking during crises. Covering important items like food, water, clothing, and tools, it also stresses the importance of research and planning.

With a focus on practical strategies, health tips, and rescue techniques, this handbook equips you with the knowledge needed to navigate various survival scenarios effectively.

Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts, survivalists, and preppers seeking comprehensive guidance on essential survival skills and strategies.

Pros:

  • Comprehensive content covering essential survival items and techniques.
  • Emphasis on mental preparedness and practical strategies for various survival scenarios.
  • Real-life case studies and detailed illustrations enhance learning and understanding.

Cons:

  • Some readers may find the font size small and illustrations lacking color.

Tactical Combat Casualty Care and Wound Treatment

medical care in combat

If you prioritize thorough trauma identification and treatment in tactical situations, the 'Tactical Combat Casualty Care and Wound Treatment' is a valuable resource for your preparedness library. This book offers detailed guidance for EMS professionals, emphasizing the identification and treatment of chest injuries. It aligns well with TCCC class teachings, presenting concise and current information.

The content covers casualties in military combat and mass casualty scenarios, stressing the importance of certified training. While the book contains graphic amputation images, it also provides clear explanations on casualty assessment. With quizzes at the end of each chapter, it encourages further learning and practical application.

Consider supplementing this resource with hands-on classroom or field training to enhance your tactical medical skills.

Best For: Those seeking comprehensive trauma identification and treatment guidance in tactical situations.

Pros:

  • Comprehensive trauma identification and treatment guidance
  • Emphasis on chest injury identification and treatment
  • Encourages further learning and practical application through quizzes

Cons:

  • Contains graphic amputation images

Shadow Survival: A Guide to Tactical Awareness and Advanced Survival (Scoutcraft volume 1)

tactical awareness and survival

Explore how 'Shadow Survival: A Guide to Tactical Awareness and Advanced Survival (Scoutcraft volume 1)' equips both novices and seasoned outdoors enthusiasts with essential primal skills for stealth and survival in the wild. This book takes a unique approach by focusing on tactical awareness, camouflage, evasion, adaptability, resilience, and intuition.

Through engaging activities and exercises, you'll develop skills for silent movement and reading the environment, essential for thriving in nature. The straightforward writing style, combined with storytelling and playful games, makes learning these critical survival skills enjoyable for both children and adults.

Readers appreciate the fresh perspective this book offers, different from traditional survival manuals, and find Nate, the author, to be a knowledgeable and engaging teacher. Delve into 'Shadow Survival' to enhance your Scoutcraft skills and deepen your connection with nature.

Best For: Individuals seeking to enhance their primal survival skills and deepen their connection with nature through engaging activities and exercises.

Pros:

  • Offers a unique approach focusing on tactical awareness, camouflage, and adaptability.
  • Engages readers with storytelling and playful games to make learning enjoyable.
  • Provides valuable insights for both beginners and experienced individuals in Scoutcraft.

Cons:

  • May not appeal to those looking for a traditional survival manual format.

Survival Instinct (Cerberus Tactical K9 Book 1)

action packed k9 adventure novel

For those seeking a mix of romance, action, and canine companionship in their tactical survival reads, 'Survival Instinct (Cerberus Tactical K9 Book 1)' offers an engaging introduction into the Inniquis world. This stand-alone novel fits well within the series, providing a great starting point for the K9 books.

The story follows Dani and Trip on an emotional search and rescue mission, with their K9 companion, Valor, adding depth to their journey. Readers recommend this book for its drama, humor, and engaging storyline that keeps you hooked. While some critics mention a lack of early romantic development, the book's focus on K9 rescue missions with a touch of romance is appreciated.

Overall, 'Survival Instinct' is praised for addressing tough issues in the K9, rescue, and military world, making it a compelling read for those interested in this genre.

Best For: Those who enjoy a blend of romance, action, and canine companionship in their tactical survival reads.

Pros:

  • Engaging storyline with a mix of drama and humor.
  • Strong character and relationship development.
  • Insightful exploration of tough issues in the K9, rescue, and military world.

Cons:

  • Lack of early romantic development may disappoint some readers.

Fieldcraft: TW-02 (Tactical Wisdom)

tactical wisdom in fieldcraft

When considering tactical survival books for preppers, look to Fieldcraft: TW-02 (Tactical Wisdom) by Joe Dolio for a practical and insightful guide on preparation for various scenarios. This book, part of a series focusing on Without Rule of Law (WROL) events, offers a well-rounded approach to readiness without fixating on specific disasters.

Fieldcraft covers essential topics like movement, observation, site establishment, sanitation, camouflage, and urban skills, providing a thorough guide for all-around preparation. Emphasizing the importance of blending in with Gray Man tactics and leveraging basic checklists over expensive gear, this book encourages a practical and adaptable mindset for survival situations.

Drawing from the author's military background, Fieldcraft offers wisdom-backed insights that appeal to both beginners and seasoned preppers. Consider adding this insightful resource to your prepper library for a holistic approach to preparedness.

Best For: Those looking for a practical and insightful guide on tactical survival preparation for various scenarios.

Pros:

  • Offers a well-rounded approach to readiness without fixating on specific disasters.
  • Emphasizes blending in with Gray Man tactics and leveraging basic checklists.
  • Draws from the author's military background for wisdom-backed insights.

Cons:

  • Not geared towards extreme doomsday scenarios.

Tiny Pocket Survival Guide EDC Reference Skills Field Emergency Disaster Rural Urban Preparedness

comprehensive pocket survival guide

Compact and packed with essential survival information, the Tiny Pocket Survival Guide EDC Reference Skills Field Emergency Disaster Rural Urban Preparedness is an indispensable tool for preppers seeking thorough preparedness in any situation. This lightweight, water-resistant guide covers a wide array of topics including shelter, fire, navigation, signaling, safety, first aid, and more, making it a valuable addition to your emergency kit or backpack.

Despite its small size, measuring 5X4 inches, it's highly informative and includes practical features like a credit card-sized fresnel lens for reading and fire starting. Users appreciate the detailed content, compact design, and practicality of this guide, which also includes useful tips on language translation, Morse code, knots, and edible plants.

Make sure you have this handy reference for quick access to essential survival skills in both rural and urban environments.

Best For: Preppers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a compact and informative survival guide for emergency preparedness.

Pros:

  • Comprehensive coverage of essential survival topics.
  • Compact design with practical features like a fresnel lens.
  • Useful tips on language translation, Morse code, knots, and edible plants.

Cons:

  • Small print may be challenging for some users.

The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook

prepare for unexpected situations

If you seek a humorous and engaging approach to extreme survival scenarios, the 'Tactical Survival Books for Preppers' may be the perfect choice for you.

The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook offers expert advice in a light-hearted manner, making it a fun read for both adults and children. It has been praised for sparking conversations, providing entertainment value, and even being used as a teaching tool. While some readers find certain scenarios to be impractical or region-specific, the book still offers general ideas on how to handle different situations.

Considered a great gift for those who enjoy humor and adventure, this book has received positive feedback for its educational value and engaging content. Overall, it's recommended as a valuable addition to personal or educational libraries.

Best For: Those looking for a humorous and entertaining guide to extreme survival scenarios that can be enjoyed by both adults and children.

Pros:

  • Provides expert advice in a light-hearted manner.
  • Sparks conversations and provides entertainment value.
  • Can be used as a teaching tool for educational purposes.

Cons:

  • Some scenarios may be seen as impractical for real-life situations.

Krav Maga Tactical Survival Book: Personal Safety Strategies

krav maga safety strategies

For those seeking extensive guidance on Krav Maga techniques tailored for real-life scenarios, the 'Krav Maga Tactical Survival: Personal Safety in Action' book by Gershon Ben Keren stands out as an invaluable resource. This thorough guide is organized into five parts, covering striking techniques, armed and unarmed self-defense scenarios, armed assaults, defenses against unarmed assaults, and throws in self-defense.

With clear color pictures illustrating the techniques, this book proves to be a valuable companion to hands-on training with a Krav Maga instructor. Highly recommended for individuals interested in Krav Maga and self-defense, it covers topics such as facing skilled assailants, dealing with pain-resistant attackers, defenses against knife and gun assaults, barroom fighting, and more.

Take advantage of the better-illustrated techniques, advanced criminal psychology insights, and practical advice on defeating assailants found within this book.

Best For: Individuals interested in mastering Krav Maga techniques for real-life self-defense scenarios.

Pros:

  • Comprehensive guide covering various aspects of Krav Maga techniques.
  • Clear color pictures illustrating techniques for better understanding.
  • Advanced insights into criminal psychology and practical advice on defeating assailants.

Cons:

  • Practical hands-on training with a qualified instructor is necessary, may not be suitable for those seeking purely theoretical knowledge.

Bushcraft 101: A Field Guide to Wilderness Survival

wilderness survival field guide

When preparing for survival situations in the wilderness, 'Bushcraft 101: A Field Guide to Wilderness Survival' stands out as an essential resource for preppers seeking practical and thorough guidance. Written by Dave Canterbury, a renowned expert in bushcraft skills, this book offers a wealth of information on essential survival techniques.

Canterbury's emphasis on the 'Five Cs of Survivability'—Cutting Tools, Covering Elements, Combustion Devices, Containers, and Cordages—sets a solid foundation for mastering wilderness survival. The book covers a wide range of topics, including setting up camp, traversing terrain, trapping game, and more.

With its clear writing style and detailed descriptions, 'Bushcraft 101' caters to beginners and experienced outdoors enthusiasts alike, making it a valuable addition to any prepper's library.

Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts, preppers, and survivalists looking to enhance their bushcraft skills and knowledge in wilderness survival.

Pros:

  • Comprehensive coverage of essential survival techniques and skills.
  • Clear writing style and detailed descriptions make it accessible for beginners and experienced outdoors people.
  • Emphasis on practicality and efficiency in utilizing nature's resources.

Cons:

  • Some readers may find the tone a bit formal.

Tactical Manual: Small Unit Tactics

military maneuvers for success

The 'Tactical Survival Books for Preppers' stand out as the ultimate choice for individuals keen on enhancing tactical knowledge and skills, specifically those interested in small unit tactics.

The 'Tactical Manual: Small Unit Tactics' is highly recommended for its in-depth coverage of topics essential for small infantry units. This manual incorporates U.S. and U.K. doctrines, drawing from practical experience to provide detailed explanations on key tactical tasks.

From fieldcraft to defensive operations, this book covers a wide array of important subjects including battle drills, offensive tactics, CQB, and more. Whether you're part of special operations, light infantry, or a prepared citizen seeking tactical knowledge, this manual offers practical tips and concise yet thorough explanations with diagrams to enhance your skills effectively.

Best For: Prepared citizens, military enthusiasts, and individuals without military experience seeking to enhance their tactical knowledge and skills.

Pros:

  • Detailed coverage of essential topics for small infantry units.
  • Incorporates U.S. and U.K. doctrines along with practical experience.
  • Concise yet thorough explanations with diagrams for effective skill enhancement.

Cons:

  • Some minor areas for improvement mentioned by users.

100 Deadly Skills Book: The SEAL Operatives Guide to Survival

seal survival skills manual

Ideal for individuals seeking practical survival skills in a user-friendly format, the 'Deadly Skills Book: The SEAL Operatives Guide to Survival' equips readers with diverse techniques for enhancing personal safety and preparedness. This book by ret. SEAL Clint Emerson offers insights into the mindset of potential threats while providing practical tips for everyday situations like travel safety and personal security.

It covers a wide range of topics, including surveillance techniques, weapon improvisation, and defense strategies. The content, presented in a simple two-page format, encourages readers to step out of their comfort zones and be prepared for unexpected scenarios.

With real-world applications and illustrations aiding in comprehension, this book serves as a valuable resource for those interested in enhancing their knowledge of survival, weaponry, and personal safety.

Best For: Individuals looking to enhance their personal safety and preparedness with practical survival skills in a user-friendly format.

Pros:

  • Offers diverse techniques for personal safety and preparedness.
  • Covers a wide range of topics including surveillance, weapon improvisation, and defense strategies.
  • Encourages readers to step out of their comfort zones and be prepared for unexpected scenarios.

Cons:

  • Some readers may find the content extreme for everyday civilian use.

Tactical Survival

tactical strategies for survival

For those seeking practical advice and critical knowledge on response tactics in law enforcement, 'Tactical Survival Books for Preppers' is a valuable resource. Released on 03/23/2012, this book by Steve Varnell, a retired Florida Highway Patrol officer, explores eleven vital areas of law enforcement work linked to line-of-duty deaths.

It offers essential response tactics for law enforcement officers, covering topics like foot pursuits, combatives, edged weapon awareness & response, firearms, and weapon platform & ammunition selection. Readers have praised it for its easy-to-understand content and practical advice.

While some may not agree with all tactics presented, if you value your safety and that of your team in law enforcement, this book is a must-have in your personal library.

Best For: Law enforcement officers looking to enhance their tactical survival skills and response tactics.

Pros:

  • Provides essential response tactics for law enforcement officers.
  • Covers important topics such as foot pursuits, combatives, and firearms.
  • Written by a retired Florida Highway Patrol officer with practical advice.

Cons:

  • Some readers may not agree with all tactics presented.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Tactical Survival Books

choosing survival guide books

When choosing tactical survival books, consider the following selection criteria:

  • Importance of the content
  • Key considerations guide
  • Relevance to different scenarios

Make sure the content is practical and evaluate the expertise of the author to confirm credibility. These factors will help you select the most valuable resources for your prepping needs.

Selection Criteria Importance

Considering the selection criteria for tactical survival books is vital for preppers looking to enhance their preparedness skills effectively.

When choosing a book, take into account the author's background in tactical survival to make sure you're getting reliable information.

Seek out books that cover a wide range of skills, from basic to advanced, catering to different knowledge levels.

It's important to find practical real-world applications and scenarios in the book to boost your readiness for potential threats.

Evaluate the organization and presentation of the book for easy access to information during emergencies.

Prioritize books offering a balanced mix of theory, practical tips, and hands-on training for thorough learning.

These factors will help you select the best tactical survival books to enrich your preparedness arsenal.

Key Considerations Guide

Considering various factors when selecting tactical survival books enhances your preparedness skills as a prepper.

Start by checking the author's background and experience in tactical survival to confirm credibility and expertise.

Look for books that cover a wide range of tactical skills, catering to your preparedness level from basic to advanced. Practical illustrations, diagrams, or photographs can aid in understanding and applying tactical concepts effectively.

Assess the relevance and applicability of the tactics discussed in the book to your specific needs and potential scenarios.

Seek a balance between theory and practical application, emphasizing real-world scenarios and hands-on training.

Relevance to Scenarios

To guarantee your preparedness aligns with potential threats and environments, prioritize selecting tactical survival books that directly address relevant scenarios and survival settings.

Consider if the book covers a range of situations, from urban to wilderness settings, ensuring it aligns with your environment.

Look for detailed information on tactics that match your skill level and specific needs. Check if the book offers insights and strategies tailored to the types of emergencies you're likely to face.

Choose books that emphasize practical skills and techniques adaptable to real-world survival scenarios. By focusing on relevance to scenarios, you can equip yourself with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate various challenges effectively.

Practicality in Content

How can you guarantee that the tactical survival books you choose offer practical content tailored to real-world emergency scenarios?

Practicality in tactical survival books is essential for their effectiveness in helping you navigate challenging situations. Look for books that provide actionable steps, clear instructions, and effective solutions to common survival challenges. Make sure the content includes diagrams, illustrations, and step-by-step guidance for better comprehension and application.

Evaluating a book's practicality can be done through reader feedback, reviews, and gauging how applicable the information is in various survival scenarios. By prioritizing practical content in your selection of tactical survival books, you equip yourself with the knowledge and skills needed to handle emergencies confidently and effectively.

Author Expertise Evaluation

To guarantee the reliability and practicality of tactical survival books, thoroughly examine the author's background and expertise. This includes factors such as military experience, survival training, and teaching credentials. Look for authors with practical hands-on experience in tactical survival situations, as this firsthand knowledge adds credibility to their work.

Consider authors who have a track record of teaching tactical skills through training courses or workshops. These authors can effectively convey complex information in an understandable manner. Evaluate the author's credibility based on reviews, recommendations, and feedback from readers in the tactical survival community.

Seek out books written by authors who provide clear, concise, and practical information that reflects their expertise in tactical survival. This ensures you are learning from a reliable source.

User Applicability Assessment

Consider the level of your experience in tactical survival when selecting a book to guarantee its content matches your skills and knowledge. Look for practical advice and techniques that are applicable to real-world scenarios, enhancing your preparedness.

Guarantee the book covers a wide range of tactical survival topics to provide a thorough understanding of different situations. Check for clear illustrations, diagrams, or step-by-step instructions to aid your learning and application of tactical skills.

Evaluate if the book focuses on critical aspects such as self-defense, emergency response tactics, survival strategies, and awareness training to meet your specific needs in tactical situations. Choosing a book tailored to your experience level will maximize its usefulness and relevance to your preparedness journey.

Resource Quality Check

When selecting tactical survival books, prioritize those that cover a wide range of essential skills and provide clear instructions with practical illustrations to support your learning and application of knowledge. Make sure the book includes topics like shelter building, fire starting, navigation, and self-defense techniques.

Look for clear and concise instructions that are complemented by practical illustrations to aid in understanding and retention of information. It's important to choose books that emphasize real-world applications of survival skills and offer insights into potential threats.

Consider resources that focus on enhancing your awareness and preparedness for various scenarios, without promoting unnecessary risks. Seek out books that offer a diverse range of skills, from basic survival knowledge to advanced tactics, catering to different levels of experience and expertise.

Real-World Skill Focus

Exploring tactical survival books that prioritize real-world skill focus is essential for enhancing your preparedness for diverse scenarios. When selecting a book, opt for those that offer practical advice and techniques tailored to handling emergencies and threats effectively. Look for insights into survival psychology and decision-making under pressure, as these are vital aspects of survival readiness.

Choose manuals that cover a broad range of skills such as shelter building, fire starting, navigation, and self-defense. It's important to prioritize books that emphasize hands-on training and the practical application of skills in realistic situations.

Conclusion

To sum up, having a collection of tactical survival books is vital for any prepper looking to be well-prepared for any situation. These books offer valuable knowledge and skills that can be essential in times of crisis.

By studying and understanding the information within these books, you can increase your chances of survival and thrive in challenging circumstances. Make sure to invest in these resources and keep them in your library for easy access when needed.

Stay prepared and stay safe.