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SAS Survival Handbook, Third Edition: A Comprehensive Course in Emergency and Wilderness Medicine Paperback – November 11, 2014
Purchase options and add-ons
"A classic outdoor manual [that] addresses every conceivable disaster scenario. Don’t leave home without it”--Outside magazine
The ultimate guide to surviving anywhere, now updated with more than 100 pages of additional material, including a new chapter on urban survival
Revised to reflect the latest in survival knowledge and technology, and covering new topics such as urban survival and terrorism, the multimillion-copy worldwide bestseller SAS Survival Handbook by John "Lofty" Wiseman is the definitive resource for all campers, hikers, and outdoor adventurers. From basic campcraft and navigation to fear management and strategies for coping with any type of disaster, this complete course includes:
Being prepared: Understanding basic survival skills, like reading the weather, and preparation essentials, such as a pocket survival kit.
Making camp: Finding the best location, constructing the appropriate shelter, organizing camp, staying warm, and creating tools.
Food: What to eat, what to avoid, where to find it, and how to prepare it.
First aid: A comprehensive course in emergency/wilderness medicine, including how to maximize survival in any climate or when injured.
Disaster survival: How to react in the face of natural disasters and hostile situations—and how to survive if all services and supplies are cut off.
Self-defense: Arming yourself with basic hand-to-hand combat techniques.
Security: Protecting your family and property from intrusion, break-ins, and theft.
Climate & terrain: Overcoming any location, from the tropics to the poles, from the desert to the mountains and sea.
- Reading age5 years and up
- Print length672 pages
- LanguageEnglish
- Dimensions8.05 x 6.2 x 1.2 inches
- PublisherMariner Books
- Publication dateNovember 11, 2014
- ISBN-100062378074
- ISBN-13978-0062378071
Book recommendations, author interviews, editors' picks, and more. Read it now.
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Sustainability features
This product has sustainability features recognized by trusted certifications.Carbon impactCarbon emissions from the lifecycle of this product were measured, reduced and offset.As certified byClimatePartner certified
The Climate neutral label by ClimatePartner certifies that the carbon footprint of a product was calculated and all associated emissions were offset. Additionally, ClimatePartner encourages companies to set ambitious reduction targets and reduce their products' carbon footprints. The certificate number can be entered on ClimatePartner’s website for additional information such as the supported carbon offset project(s). ClimatePartner is improving lives by helping companies tackle climate change with practical solutions.Certification Number7V333Z - Sustainability features for this product
Sustainability features
This product has sustainability features recognized by trusted certifications.Carbon impactCarbon emissions from the lifecycle of this product were measured, reduced and offset.As certified byClimatePartner certified
The Climate neutral label by ClimatePartner certifies that the carbon footprint of a product was calculated and all associated emissions were offset. Additionally, ClimatePartner encourages companies to set ambitious reduction targets and reduce their products' carbon footprints. The certificate number can be entered on ClimatePartner’s website for additional information such as the supported carbon offset project(s). ClimatePartner is improving lives by helping companies tackle climate change with practical solutions.Certification Number7V333Z - Sustainability features for this product
Sustainability features
This product has sustainability features recognized by trusted certifications.Carbon impactCarbon emissions from the lifecycle of this product were measured, reduced and offset.As certified byClimatePartner certified
The Climate neutral label by ClimatePartner certifies that the carbon footprint of a product was calculated and all associated emissions were offset. Additionally, ClimatePartner encourages companies to set ambitious reduction targets and reduce their products' carbon footprints. The certificate number can be entered on ClimatePartner’s website for additional information such as the supported carbon offset project(s). ClimatePartner is improving lives by helping companies tackle climate change with practical solutions.Certification NumberU13BYG - Sustainability features for this product
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Editorial Reviews
Review
“A classic outdoor manual. ... Written by John Wiseman, former survival instructor for Britain’s elite Special Air Service (an all-conditions strike force considered by some to be tougher than the U.S. Navy SEALs), the book addresses every conceivable disaster scenario. ... Don’t leave home without it.” — Outside magazine
“This step-by-step survival bible has... prepared [me] for anything. ... This edition’s most valuable lessons arrive in its new ‘Urban Survival’ section, which features tactics for countering espionage and dealing with urban animal attacks.” — Washington Post
From the Back Cover
The ultimate guide to surviving anywhere, now updated with more than 100 pages of additional material, including a new chapter on urban survival
"A classic outdoor manual [that] addresses every conceivable disaster scenario. Don’t leave home without it”--Outside magazine
Revised to reflect the latest in survival knowledge and technology, and covering new topics such as urban survival and terrorism, the multimillion-copy worldwide bestseller SAS Survival Handbook by John "Lofty" Wiseman is the definitive resource for all campers, hikers, and outdoor adventurers. From basic campcraft and navigation to fear management and strategies for coping with any type of disaster, this complete course includes:
Being prepared: Understanding basic survival skills, like reading the weather, and preparation essentials, such as a pocket survival kit.
Making camp: Finding the best location, constructing the appropriate shelter, organizing camp, staying warm, and creating tools.
Food: What to eat, what to avoid, where to find it, and how to prepare it.
First aid: A comprehensive course in emergency/wilderness medicine, including how to maximize survival in any climate or when injured.
Disaster survival: How to react in the face of natural disasters and hostile situations—and how to survive if all services and supplies are cut off.
Self-defense: Arming yourself with basic hand-to-hand combat techniques.
Security: Protecting your family and property from intrusion, break-ins, and theft.
Climate & terrain: Overcoming any location, from the tropics to the poles, from the desert to the mountains and sea.
About the Author
John 'Lofty' Wiseman served in the British Special Air Service (SAS) for twenty-six years. The SAS Survival Handbook is based on the training techniques of this world-famous elite fighting force.
Product details
- Publisher : Mariner Books; 3rd edition (November 11, 2014)
- Language : English
- Paperback : 672 pages
- ISBN-10 : 0062378074
- ISBN-13 : 978-0062378071
- Reading age : 5 years and up
- Item Weight : 1.85 pounds
- Dimensions : 8.05 x 6.2 x 1.2 inches
- Best Sellers Rank: #2,256 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
- Customer Reviews:
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Customer reviews
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Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers find the book informative and useful, with detailed information. They find it easy to read and understand, with well-written content that is concise and organized. Many consider it a good value for money and a must-have for survival emergency packs. The book covers everything from food and shelter to situations and locations.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers find the book informative and comprehensive, covering a wide range of survival topics with practical advice for navigating diverse environments. They appreciate the detailed content and illustrations. The book will be useful in a survival situation or emergency.
"...thoughts on the Third Edition SAS Survival Handbook: The Ultimate Guide to Surviving by John “Lofty” Wiseman which was published by HarperCollins..." Read more
"...an unparalleled wealth of knowledge and practical advice for navigating diverse environments. Pros: Comprehensive Content:..." Read more
"Still reading it. Well written. It is paperback and holding together well. Good diagrams. Nice index. Impressed and happy." Read more
"Great book and awesome knowledge. I think this book was slightly used but purchased as new." Read more
Customers find the book easy to read and understand. They appreciate the concise writing style, clear organization of information, and well-thought-out layout. The visual aids enhance accessibility and make it an excellent book for pre-teens or teenagers.
"...It’s written in a way that anyone can understand and covers everything you would need to know; from learning how to make a shelter, to knowing how..." Read more
"...of detailed illustrations and visual aids significantly enhances the book's accessibility...." Read more
"Still reading it. Well written. It is paperback and holding together well. Good diagrams. Nice index. Impressed and happy." Read more
"Great book and awesome knowledge. I think this book was slightly used but purchased as new." Read more
Customers find the book a good value for money. They say it's sturdy, a solid resource, and an invaluable addition to their collection.
"...the SAS Survival Handbook, Third Edition, has become an invaluable addition to my collection, offering an unparalleled wealth of knowledge and..." Read more
"...Overall, it’s a solid resource but not perfect." Read more
"This book is amazing, most information I pray I will never need to use. You could survive anywhere in the world with this book, knife, and matches...." Read more
"...If you ever actually needed this book, it would be worth more than its weight in gold. Glad I have it." Read more
Customers find the book helpful for survival. They say it's an original manual with useful tips and techniques, and a must-have for camping, hiking, and hunting. The book provides information on survival techniques and ways to conserve resources in an emergency.
"This is very informative, goes well with my survival camping book" Read more
"This is a comprehensive survival book. Will be very useful in a SHTF situation." Read more
"...Simply put, this is a solid option for the one book/guide for all aspects of survival, emergencies, bugging out, or whatever...." Read more
"This is perfect for a survival book...." Read more
Customers find the book's pictures clear and informative. They appreciate the color images for plants and sketch drawings to illustrate concepts. The illustrations are well-organized, with diagrams and step-by-step instructions. The print quality is good and the pages are waterproof, though some readers are not sure.
"...At the price of $17.48, there are 668 pages that include illustrations, directions, and insights. (ISBN: 978-0-06-237807-1)...." Read more
"...Illustrations and Visual Aids: The inclusion of detailed illustrations and visual aids significantly enhances the book's accessibility...." Read more
"...Well written. It is paperback and holding together well. Good diagrams. Nice index. Impressed and happy." Read more
"...Covers a myriad of subjects with decent illustrations." Read more
Customers find the book helpful for learning about edible plants and poisonous plants. They appreciate the nature section, including shelters, making fires, finding food, making weapons, and plenty more. However, some readers feel it would be better if it included more coverage of edible ocean fish.
"...My favorite section was the fourth chapter on food. It was just over 130 pages of anything that is related to food...." Read more
"...It's chapters include essentials, climate and terrain, food, strategies, health, survival at sea, urban survival,..." Read more
"...Also edible plantsthat are good , as well as what plants , berries , herbs etc. to stay away from ...." Read more
"...a few different weeds and discovered some special uses and qualities for those weeds." Read more
Customers appreciate the book's coverage. They find it covers everything from self-defense to edible plants. It helps them prepare for various situations and locations.
"Just started! It covered everything!" Read more
"...maybe a little light on the more likely scenarios, but it covered the breadth quite well...." Read more
"...Small enough to carry and broad enough to be helpful in a plethora of situations...." Read more
"This book covers almost everything and I would absolutely recommend it… and as the author is a man, I can forgive the oversight… the one missing..." Read more
Customers find the book too heavy for their bags and uncomfortable to carry around. They mention it's thick and not pocket-sized, making it unsuitable for backpacking or emergency situations.
"Good book , has a lot in it, yet heavyweight makes it uncomfortable to bring it along ." Read more
"...with me just in case i need it one day...although it is a hefty book to carry around its no problem to throw in or strap on to a every day carry bag..." Read more
"...It has some size and weight to it and hasn't ever come with me because of that. But other than that it is a great read." Read more
"...This is a thick book, possibly too heavy for your bag, as it is. If you want an excellent place to begin honing your knowledge, this book is it...." Read more
Reviews with images
Useful, but overwhelming
Top reviews from the United States
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- Reviewed in the United States on May 2, 2021Knowing what to do in a survival situation is something that many people do not spend time thinking about. But when they are stuck in a survival situation that requires them to know how to build a fire, make camp, know what foods to eat and not eat, these are skills that can determine whether they live or die. In this essay I will be discussing my review and thoughts on the Third Edition SAS Survival Handbook: The Ultimate Guide to Surviving by John “Lofty” Wiseman which was published by HarperCollins Publishers in 2014. At the price of $17.48, there are 668 pages that include illustrations, directions, and insights. (ISBN: 978-0-06-237807-1).
John Wiseman was a professional soldier for 26 years that served with the Special Air Service (SAS). This unit of the British Army was trained to carry out missions in various parts of the world where they were often alone and far from conventional sources. They worked in small groups that were often in their enemy’s territory. Because they were isolated and in small numbers, they each became their group's own doctors, navigators, cooks, and dentists. After serving throughout the war, Wiseman became the survival instructor to the SAS and took the responsibility of ensuring that “…each and every member of the Regiment could apply these skills in the field,” (Wiseman, 2014). Experiencing harsh circumstances in which he had to rely on learned and thought-out survival instincts, he poured what he knew into this book. He notes that as we become more civilized in our daily routines of comfortableness and safety, we tend to lose survival skills that should come easy to the human body. We get caught up in fear and emotion, while surviving requires wit and quick thinking. There are three things that he outlines at the beginning of the text where he states the three basic principles of learning for the survivor: Will to Live, Knowledge, and Kit. Will to Live being that the survivor must never give in, regardless of their circumstances. Knowledge being that the survivor must know how to act in various situations in order to “dispel fear” (Wiseman, 2014). Kit being that the survivor must have essential items prepared with them in any case of a dangerous situation.
The first parts of the book focus on essentials that the survivor must have at the ready at all times. Some of these include food, clothing, water, GPS's, radios, weapons, matches, and medical supplies. The survivor must be conscious and aware that a sudden circumstance could arise at any second and being prepared will always lead to an increase in the outcome of surviving. It is also essential to research a place that you will be attending if you’ve either never been there before or don’t recall much about it. “The more detailed your knowledge of the way people live…the more survival knowledge you will have if you come to need it,” Wiseman states. In research there is planning. In my opinion, this part of the book was one of the most important because there were many essential items discussed that you could have at handy in your car or in your bag in case you were cut off from civilization such as a GPS’s, compass, extra food, clothing, and water as well. I definitely implemented lots of these into my daily life.
The next parts focus on strategy, climate & terrain, and camp craft. Strategy focuses on knowing skills that could be applied to more than one situation and that, in knowing them, would minimize risks. There are also based on experience. Of course, experiences must be at a safe precaution because knowing when to escape at the exact moment of a car sinking under water should be taken seriously. I thought that this was interesting to learn because he discussed things like how to escape from a crash on a vehicle or airplane. This part had lots of tips on surviving these outcomes. Climate and terrain focused on researching ahead of time if you are entering a climate that you are not familiar with. “People often view an alien environment as an enemy and feel they must fight it. This is not the way to survive—fight it and you will lose,” (Wiseman, 2014). He states that knowing your area either before or learning it during will always lead to an increased chance of survival. I related to the information in this part of the book because when I had to travel up to North Carolina due to Hurricane Irma, the first thing I did was research the climate there to prepare the appropriate clothing to wear. Had I gone there confused I would have freaked out. This information was really important to read and I was surprised to see that I had already attempted one of the skills in the book. Camp craft was a section that I knew I would have no experience with because I had never built a shelter myself. This part of the book way my favorite because in it describes knowing what types of shelter to build in certain climates and the right type of fire, warmth, and air ventilation to keep your body healthy and able. For example, he gives exact directions on how to survive in a severely cold climate that has heavy hard snow on the ground. He states that most of these big snowy areas are shelter themselves because they hold hollow caves underneath them that can be made as shelter if you know how to utilize it. He shows in illustrations that you must dig into a drift of snow. He then goes on to say that you must create three levels when you inside. One for where you will sleep, one for fire and a lower level that will trap the cold. And then, probably my favorite part of the entire book, you must create a hold on top, through the snow above you, to make sure that you have sufficient ventilation. This was my favorite because I have always wondered how I would survive if I was trapped under snow.
The final parts of the book describe reading the weather, health, and rescue. These parts of the book were my least favorite because they were very heavy with detail, as they should be, and were not as interesting as the previous parts. Reading the weather was the only exception. From this, I learned the skill of knowing how to read clouds so that I could know what type of weather they were bringing, which I describe in my final survival video. The health section described how to perform first aid. Some of the main priorities were to “remove any danger, check for response, open the airway, check for breathing, and stop severe bleeding” (Wiseman, 2014). The rescue part described how to communicate if there were people in the air above you and you needed to communicate that something was wrong on the ground. For example, the author described that by making the symbol of an X, the air people would understand that you are “unable to move on” and by making the symbol of an I, this would mean there was a serious injury or that you need medical supplies.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book because it gave you countless situation in which you could possibly find yourself in and how to survive effectively. I would definitely recommend this book to another person because you never know when you could be caught in a car crash, tornado, or trapped at sea and need survival skills that you know handy. Any type of person would like this book because there are countless various scenarios that we have all at least thought about once thinking “how would I survive that?” In summary, this book has been the most information text I have ever read. There were so many footnotes that added additional information and tips for the survivor. You are truly able to see and experience the circumstances that the author went through in order to know all of this information. It’s written in a way that anyone can understand and covers everything you would need to know; from learning how to make a shelter, to knowing how to defend yourself against the elements. I believe that every person should be required to read this book before reaching adulthood because in my opinion, it could help save the lives of billions.
- Reviewed in the United States on February 4, 2024As an avid outdoors enthusiast and survivalist, the SAS Survival Handbook, Third Edition, has become an invaluable addition to my collection, offering an unparalleled wealth of knowledge and practical advice for navigating diverse environments.
Pros:
Comprehensive Content:
The depth of information within the SAS Survival Handbook is truly impressive. From essential survival techniques to in-depth coverage of shelter building, firecraft, and first aid, this book leaves no stone unturned. It serves as an all-encompassing guide for both novices and seasoned adventurers.
Illustrations and Visual Aids:
The inclusion of detailed illustrations and visual aids significantly enhances the book's accessibility. Complex concepts are broken down into easy-to-understand visuals, making it a practical manual even for those less familiar with survival techniques.
Real-Life Case Studies:
The incorporation of real-life case studies and anecdotes adds a compelling dimension to the content. These stories not only make the information more relatable but also provide valuable insights into how survival techniques have been applied in actual situations.
Portable and Durable:
The compact size and durable construction of the book make it a reliable companion for outdoor adventures. It easily fits into a backpack or survival kit, ensuring that vital information is always within reach when needed.
Focus on Mental Preparedness:
Beyond the physical aspects of survival, the book places a strong emphasis on mental preparedness. Tips on maintaining a positive mindset and staying calm under pressure are invaluable aspects that set this handbook apart.
Cons:
Small Font Size:
The font size is on the smaller side, which may pose a challenge for some readers, especially those who prefer larger print. However, the wealth of information packed into each page justifies the compromise in font size.
Limited Color in Illustrations:
While the illustrations are informative, the lack of color may make some details less distinguishable. However, this is a minor drawback given the overall effectiveness of the visual aids.
In conclusion, the SAS Survival Handbook, Third Edition, is a masterpiece in the realm of survival literature. Its comprehensive content, practical advice, and portability make it a must-have for anyone venturing into the great outdoors. From camping enthusiasts to serious survivalists, this book is an indispensable resource that combines knowledge with practicality. Highly recommended for those who seek a reliable guide for thriving in any environment.
- Reviewed in the United States on November 16, 2024Still reading it. Well written. It is paperback and holding together well. Good diagrams. Nice index. Impressed and happy.
- Reviewed in the United States on September 28, 2024Great book and awesome knowledge. I think this book was slightly used but purchased as new.
- Reviewed in the United States on November 18, 2024Great book that gives you survival techniques.
- Reviewed in the United States on October 29, 2024This may be too much of a good thing for some people. It does get pretty detailed on some things that might make you cringe. But remember: it's how to survive anywhere, under any circumstance. But you can skip over those things because it's got everything else you probably could use in some emergency situation: from how to defend yourself, to spotting poisonous plants...and on and on. If you're serious about survival, or just curious about the book, it won't disappoint. It is THE survival handbook.
- Reviewed in the United States on November 2, 2024Don't leave home without it in the next Apocalypse! Covers a myriad of subjects with decent illustrations.
- Reviewed in the United States on October 20, 2024This is very informative, goes well with my survival camping book
Top reviews from other countries
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PhilipeReviewed in Brazil on January 5, 2024
5.0 out of 5 stars Boa fonte de conhecimentos.
Excelente fonte de conhecimentos e consulta para aqueles que têm interesse pelo tema sobrevivencialista e que gostam do mato.
-
ErnestoReviewed in Mexico on December 3, 2023
5.0 out of 5 stars Excelente libro
Buen libro, edicion en ingles pero entendible, excelente para lo basico de campismo y senderismo, primeros auxilios etc. entrega rapida, recomendable para principiantes
- investigator77Reviewed in Canada on March 7, 2023
5.0 out of 5 stars Awesome Variety of Topics
I purchased this book, after seeing a video where a husband delivered a baby on the side of the highway, after reading the pocket guide of this book, that his grandfather had given him years earlier. His grandfather had it during in his little medical kit, during WWII, and the grandson had never looked at it before. He started reading the chapter about how to deliver a baby, about 30 minutes before they were to drive to the hospital for her C-section! I guess the baby didn't want to wait, and the father said he knew just what to do by reading the 2-page instructions! The police arrived quickly, but he had managed fine on his own, and was quite proud. I'm sure his grandpa would have been proud of him too! I haven't had to use it yet myself, but I'm sure it will come in very handy when it's needed.
- CamilloReviewed in Italy on July 20, 2024
5.0 out of 5 stars Really well written
Perfect for outdoor and whoever want tò learn survival skills
- Dean WinterReviewed in the United Kingdom on October 12, 2023
5.0 out of 5 stars Very good.
Great read with so many things to learn. So useful.