Let’s Talk About Army Navy Sales GI Army Ranger Handbook 2017
The Army Navy Sales GI Army Ranger Handbook 2017 promises a wealth of tactical and survival knowledge, distilled directly from the U.S. Army Ranger School. Published by Military Surplus, this handbook claims to replace the 2011 edition with over 400 pages of clear instructions covering combat, communications, survival, and more. It’s touted as the real deal, the same information used by armed forces in combat situations.
As an experienced outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I was intrigued. I’m constantly seeking reliable, concise resources that I can readily access in the field. I’ve relied on various field manuals and survival guides throughout my career, but was drawn to the specific Ranger-focused content of this handbook.
Upon receiving the Army Navy Sales GI Army Ranger Handbook 2017, I was struck by its compact size and relatively lightweight construction. The pages are a standard white, and the binding appears durable enough for regular use. Compared to the thicker, glossy-paged survival guides I often use, this felt more like a no-nonsense, working document.
I considered other readily available survival guides, such as the SAS Survival Handbook, but ultimately opted for the Ranger Handbook due to its concentrated focus on tactical applications and military procedures. I wanted a resource specifically tailored to combat-related scenarios, not simply general wilderness survival. My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The sheer volume of information promised within its pages was definitely exciting.
Real-World Testing: Putting Army Navy Sales GI Army Ranger Handbook 2017 to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially put the Army Navy Sales GI Army Ranger Handbook 2017 to use during a weekend training exercise with a group of former military personnel focused on urban survival skills. We used the handbook to refresh our knowledge on topics such as setting up defensive positions and basic communication protocols. The dry climate of the Southern California training grounds presented no challenges to the physical integrity of the book itself.
Navigating the handbook was relatively straightforward, though the sheer amount of information required careful indexing on my part. The clarity of the instructions varied, with some sections being exceptionally clear and others requiring some interpretation. No major issues arose during the weekend; however, the paper pages did show some wear from constant handling.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of occasional reference during scenario planning and refresher training, the Army Navy Sales GI Army Ranger Handbook 2017 has held up reasonably well. There is noticeable wear on the cover and edges of the pages from being carried in a backpack. The binding has remained intact, which is a testament to its basic construction.
The handbook is easy to maintain – simply wiping away dirt and dust as needed. My previous experience with other field manuals showed that some can fall apart easily, especially under harsh conditions. The Army Navy Sales GI Army Ranger Handbook 2017 seems more durable than some less-expensive manuals, but not as rugged as laminated or waterproof versions.
Breaking Down the Features of Army Navy Sales GI Army Ranger Handbook 2017
Specifications
The Army Navy Sales GI Army Ranger Handbook 2017, published by Military Surplus, features over 400 pages of content. It is printed on standard white paper with a simple bound spine. Its color is listed as white, referring to the page color.
These specifications translate to a lightweight and easily portable resource. However, the paper construction also means it is susceptible to water damage and general wear and tear.
Performance & Functionality
The Army Navy Sales GI Army Ranger Handbook 2017 is intended to provide concise and actionable information on a wide range of tactical and survival topics. Its performance is largely dependent on the user’s ability to interpret and apply the information correctly. While the handbook covers a broad spectrum of topics, some areas are more detailed than others.
Its strength lies in providing a readily available reference for established military procedures. A significant weakness is the lack of detailed illustrations and diagrams in certain sections. Overall, it meets expectations as a portable reference guide, but exceeds expectations in very few areas.
Design & Ergonomics
The Army Navy Sales GI Army Ranger Handbook 2017 has a simple and functional design. The build quality is adequate for a paperback manual, though not exceptionally robust. It is easy to hold and carry, making it suitable for field use.
The handbook is relatively user-friendly, though some familiarity with military terminology and procedures is helpful. The lack of an extensive index makes finding specific information somewhat challenging.
Durability & Maintenance
With reasonable care, the Army Navy Sales GI Army Ranger Handbook 2017 should last for several years of occasional use. However, its paper construction makes it vulnerable to water, tearing, and staining. Maintenance involves keeping it dry and free from dirt and debris.
Repair options are limited. Major damage would likely necessitate replacing the entire handbook.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Army Navy Sales GI Army Ranger Handbook 2017 does not come with any included accessories. Customization is limited to adding personal notes, highlighting key passages, and creating an index. The paperback format restricts significant modifications.
While there are no specific “accessories” that are directly compatible, the handbook can be used in conjunction with other field manuals, survival guides, and tactical equipment. The handbook is a standalone reference and isn’t intended to be integrated with specialized accessories.
Pros and Cons of Army Navy Sales GI Army Ranger Handbook 2017
Pros
- Provides a comprehensive overview of U.S. Army Ranger procedures and tactics.
- Lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry in a backpack or field kit.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
- Contains a wealth of information that can be useful in survival and tactical situations.
- Serves as a valuable refresher for experienced military personnel.
Cons
- Paper construction makes it susceptible to water damage and wear and tear.
- The lack of detailed illustrations in some sections can make understanding certain concepts difficult.
- The index is not as comprehensive as it could be, hindering quick information retrieval.
Who Should Buy Army Navy Sales GI Army Ranger Handbook 2017?
The Army Navy Sales GI Army Ranger Handbook 2017 is perfect for former and current military personnel seeking a refresher on Ranger tactics. Survivalists and preppers looking for a concise and comprehensive guide to survival techniques would also find this useful. Anyone interested in military history or tactical procedures will also appreciate the content.
Those seeking highly detailed instructions or a durable, weatherproof manual should skip this product. Individuals with no prior military experience may find some of the terminology and procedures difficult to understand. A waterproof bag or cover would be a must-have accessory for protecting the handbook in wet environments.
Conclusion on Army Navy Sales GI Army Ranger Handbook 2017
The Army Navy Sales GI Army Ranger Handbook 2017 is a valuable resource for those seeking a concise and portable guide to U.S. Army Ranger procedures and tactics. While its paper construction and limited illustrations are drawbacks, its affordable price and comprehensive content make it a worthwhile addition to any tactical library. The price is definitely justified, considering the breadth of information contained within its pages.
I would recommend it to anyone seeking a quick reference guide on military tactics and survival skills. Add it to your kit, study it, and be prepared.