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Small Unit Tactics: An Illustrated Manual
Small unit tactics is the art of using Soldiers in squads and platoons to conduct war. These tactics prioritize moving behind enemy lines with little to no footprint while maintaining tight security. Use tactics to destroy the enemy by executing a perfect ambush.
Special Operations Veterans have written from their own experience with real-life examples, the step-by-step tactics that Soldiers must master. This manual explains in detail how to conduct a successful mission, from infiltration to ambushing the enemy.
To completely explain every idea, this manual has over 170 full color images. Diagrams and photographs are critical to learning physical movements and coordinated maneuvers. These images are perfect for visual learners who are tired of mind-numbing walls of text.
Special Operations Veterans have written from their own experience with real-life examples, the step-by-step tactics that Soldiers must master. This manual explains in detail how to conduct a successful mission, from infiltration to ambushing the enemy.
To completely explain every idea, this manual has over 170 full color images. Diagrams and photographs are critical to learning physical movements and coordinated maneuvers. These images are perfect for visual learners who are tired of mind-numbing walls of text.
258 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 13, 2020
8 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
About the author
Matthew Luke
3 books1 followerJohn Mark (pictured) founded Matthew Luke Publishing during his short stint as a Special Forces Medical Sergeant in collaboration with his colleagues. Matthew Luke is a pen name for anonymous Special Operations Soldiers.
Before joining the army, he developed his design and illustration skills by designing websites. And he developed his writing skills by graduating from Columbia Law School and becoming a licensed attorney in New York and New Jersey.
John hopes that by writing these books, future Soldiers will have an easier time learning.
Before joining the army, he developed his design and illustration skills by designing websites. And he developed his writing skills by graduating from Columbia Law School and becoming a licensed attorney in New York and New Jersey.
John hopes that by writing these books, future Soldiers will have an easier time learning.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
November 21, 2024
Okay war is NOTHING like Call of Duty
Although some of the advice presented in the book certainly made me a better Call of Duty player! Stopping to look behind your back. Violence of action can overcome a poor setup, etc.
Anyways, although I’m no soldier and at my age I never will be (unless something goes really really wrong in the world, which it might…), I did train martial arts with world champions and professional fighters. I know the intuitively know the difference between someone who knows what he’s talking about and someone who is “bullshido.”
Matthew Luke definitely knows what he’s talking about. You can feel Matthew's experience behind his words and attention to detail. If I was in boot camp, I would want to train with Matt. If I was a soldier, I would want to work with teammates who trained under Matthew.
Small Unit Tactics is also a must have for anyone who wants to write a novel or film about realistic warfare. This is as real and nuanced as it can get!
That being said, I felt the book could have used a better presentation format. As a non soldier, it was really hard to follow along. I felt there wasn’t enough charts and pictures, even though there’s a lot. I just had trouble visualizing many of the concepts such as “bumping” or “shifting fire”. Whenever there were long blocks of text describing squad level maneuvers, I simply couldn’t follow along.
I felt the book should have been 85% charts and 15% text. Some things, you just can’t do with written word. Regardless of how good you are as a writer.
Although some of the advice presented in the book certainly made me a better Call of Duty player! Stopping to look behind your back. Violence of action can overcome a poor setup, etc.
Anyways, although I’m no soldier and at my age I never will be (unless something goes really really wrong in the world, which it might…), I did train martial arts with world champions and professional fighters. I know the intuitively know the difference between someone who knows what he’s talking about and someone who is “bullshido.”
Matthew Luke definitely knows what he’s talking about. You can feel Matthew's experience behind his words and attention to detail. If I was in boot camp, I would want to train with Matt. If I was a soldier, I would want to work with teammates who trained under Matthew.
Small Unit Tactics is also a must have for anyone who wants to write a novel or film about realistic warfare. This is as real and nuanced as it can get!
That being said, I felt the book could have used a better presentation format. As a non soldier, it was really hard to follow along. I felt there wasn’t enough charts and pictures, even though there’s a lot. I just had trouble visualizing many of the concepts such as “bumping” or “shifting fire”. Whenever there were long blocks of text describing squad level maneuvers, I simply couldn’t follow along.
I felt the book should have been 85% charts and 15% text. Some things, you just can’t do with written word. Regardless of how good you are as a writer.
September 28, 2024
Well researched
I borrowed Small Unit Tactics: An Illustrated Manual on Kindle Unlimited, and I found it to be an incredibly valuable resource, especially for those interested in understanding the finer details of infantry operations. I liked how this book goes beyond the standard field manuals and delivers a much more engaging and visually rich experience. I found the full-color diagrams and clear explanations very helpful. I appreciated how each concept, from ambush strategies to small unit movements, is broken down into digestible sections.
One thing I particularly liked was how easy it is to follow. Even as someone who isn’t deeply entrenched in military jargon, I could grasp the strategies and tactics due to the well-structured format. The visual aids were a huge help, allowing me to better understand maneuvers that would otherwise seem complex. I also appreciated how the book provided real-world scenarios to apply the techniques. For anyone in the military or even just a civilian looking to deepen their tactical knowledge, this manual is gold.
I especially loved how the author, with his Special Operations background, made the strategies applicable and practical. I think this book is well researched. Beyond theory, these are battle-tested techniques that can be adapted for modern-day situations. This book truly stands out as a must-read for military enthusiasts or anyone aiming to improve their tactical understanding; Fortnite & CoD – here I come.
I borrowed Small Unit Tactics: An Illustrated Manual on Kindle Unlimited, and I found it to be an incredibly valuable resource, especially for those interested in understanding the finer details of infantry operations. I liked how this book goes beyond the standard field manuals and delivers a much more engaging and visually rich experience. I found the full-color diagrams and clear explanations very helpful. I appreciated how each concept, from ambush strategies to small unit movements, is broken down into digestible sections.
One thing I particularly liked was how easy it is to follow. Even as someone who isn’t deeply entrenched in military jargon, I could grasp the strategies and tactics due to the well-structured format. The visual aids were a huge help, allowing me to better understand maneuvers that would otherwise seem complex. I also appreciated how the book provided real-world scenarios to apply the techniques. For anyone in the military or even just a civilian looking to deepen their tactical knowledge, this manual is gold.
I especially loved how the author, with his Special Operations background, made the strategies applicable and practical. I think this book is well researched. Beyond theory, these are battle-tested techniques that can be adapted for modern-day situations. This book truly stands out as a must-read for military enthusiasts or anyone aiming to improve their tactical understanding; Fortnite & CoD – here I come.
October 17, 2024
As someone who is in favor of non-violence, Small Unit Tactics was not the kind of book I’d normally pick up. But I came across it by chance, and since I enjoy action movies, I thought it might be interesting to learn about the real tactics behind those exciting scenes. What I found was a cool look into actual military strategies, some of which I’ve seen in movies, but now I understand them better.
The book explains complex maneuvers in a simple way that even someone like me, with no military experience, can understand. The colorful illustrations really helped me picture the movements and tactics, and it was surprising to realize that some of these are real, while others are just made for the movies.
The way the author explains things makes it easy to understand, even if you don’t know much about military tactics. The real-life examples and detailed diagrams give you a good idea of how soldiers move and work together in tough situations. It’s not just about reading—it’s about really seeing how these tactics would play out in real life, which made it more engaging for me than I expected. If you're curious about how military strategies are used in real scenarios, this book is definitely worth checking out.
Overall, I found this book to be interesting and eye-opening. Even if you're like me and prefer fiction or movies, this manual gives you a great look at how these tactics really work behind the scenes.
The book explains complex maneuvers in a simple way that even someone like me, with no military experience, can understand. The colorful illustrations really helped me picture the movements and tactics, and it was surprising to realize that some of these are real, while others are just made for the movies.
The way the author explains things makes it easy to understand, even if you don’t know much about military tactics. The real-life examples and detailed diagrams give you a good idea of how soldiers move and work together in tough situations. It’s not just about reading—it’s about really seeing how these tactics would play out in real life, which made it more engaging for me than I expected. If you're curious about how military strategies are used in real scenarios, this book is definitely worth checking out.
Overall, I found this book to be interesting and eye-opening. Even if you're like me and prefer fiction or movies, this manual gives you a great look at how these tactics really work behind the scenes.
October 14, 2024
A no-nonsense look at what's involved in on-the-ground tactics
"Small Unit Tactics” will right away make you feel as if you are reading top-secret info on the best on-the-ground tactics of war. You’ll feel like you’re a part of the planning and action and have all the knowledge you need to carry out a successful mission, whether it’s a long-term endeavor or something shorter that will allow soldiers to “return home in time for hot chow,” as the author writes at the start.
Of course, no one likes all-out war, or at least no one should at this point in the world’s battle-filled history. “Small Unit Tactics” doesn’t glorify what goes into being on the successful side of clashes, but it also doesn’t shy away from what’s necessary to win those conflicts. Those thinking of joining the military will love (and should read) this “illustrated manual.” Those who want an insider’s view of what “joes” face, and dish out, in the heat of battle will also love this read. As an objective reader, I was impressed from start to finish with all the detailed knowledge contained in this book.
"Small Unit Tactics" also made me think of what’s happening in current-day wars that sadly seem to drag on, and the part drones are playing in some areas of the world.
"Small Unit Tactics” will right away make you feel as if you are reading top-secret info on the best on-the-ground tactics of war. You’ll feel like you’re a part of the planning and action and have all the knowledge you need to carry out a successful mission, whether it’s a long-term endeavor or something shorter that will allow soldiers to “return home in time for hot chow,” as the author writes at the start.
Of course, no one likes all-out war, or at least no one should at this point in the world’s battle-filled history. “Small Unit Tactics” doesn’t glorify what goes into being on the successful side of clashes, but it also doesn’t shy away from what’s necessary to win those conflicts. Those thinking of joining the military will love (and should read) this “illustrated manual.” Those who want an insider’s view of what “joes” face, and dish out, in the heat of battle will also love this read. As an objective reader, I was impressed from start to finish with all the detailed knowledge contained in this book.
"Small Unit Tactics" also made me think of what’s happening in current-day wars that sadly seem to drag on, and the part drones are playing in some areas of the world.
December 6, 2024
Small Unit Tactics: An Illustrated Manual by Matthew Luke is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of military operations. Drawing from the first-hand experiences of special operations veterans using the pen name of Matthew Luke, the book offers step-by-step guidance on conducting successful missions, from infiltration techniques to executing ambushes. It is practical, insightful, and grounded in the realities of modern tactical challenges.
What truly sets this manual apart is its user-friendly format. The inclusion of several full-colour images, diagrams, and photographs brings the content to life, making complex concepts accessible to all readers, regardless of their prior knowledge. The detailed illustrations complement the text perfectly, ensuring clarity and engagement.
The scenarios presented seem authentic, reflecting real-world challenges and providing invaluable lessons in strategic thinking. Furthermore, Small Unit Tactics demonstrates a commendable effort to reach a global audience by being available in multiple languages. Whether you’re preparing for military service, writing tactical fiction, or expanding your knowledge, this is an essential addition to your library.
December 13, 2024
I have always had a historical interest in battle tactics, aside from a general interest in learning about stuff, and this manual--not a book--is the perfect review of small unit infantry tactics. It definitely is jargon-heavy, and to really understand most of these concepts you would have to spend several weeks in basic training and several more weeks (months?) in tactical/leadership training. It would also require a lot of on-the-ground exercises. All that said, this remains an awesome review of the tactics even if you are reviewing them at a much more superficial level.
This kind of understanding gives me a newfound appreciation for my family and friends in the military. Strategy, logistics, planning, knowing the advantages and limitations of your weapons and equipment--these things and much more are all essential.
Is it a light and fluffy read? Of course not. How could it be? But it is exactly the deeper dive I have always been interested in pursuing. And it also is a great reference resource for anyone purporting to understand, write about, or represent small unit battle.
This kind of understanding gives me a newfound appreciation for my family and friends in the military. Strategy, logistics, planning, knowing the advantages and limitations of your weapons and equipment--these things and much more are all essential.
Is it a light and fluffy read? Of course not. How could it be? But it is exactly the deeper dive I have always been interested in pursuing. And it also is a great reference resource for anyone purporting to understand, write about, or represent small unit battle.
February 2, 2025
Practical, Clear, and Entertaining—A Great Read
"Small Unit Tactics" is a refreshing and engaging take on tactical doctrine, offering a balance of precision, practicality, and humor. The author’s writing style is direct and often dryly funny, making complex concepts surprisingly enjoyable to read. I appreciated the frequent references to other military manuals, particularly the Ranger Handbook, which provides useful context and credibility without feeling overly academic. The accompanying graphics are a standout feature, helping to visualize key points and bringing the text to life.
One of the book’s strengths is how prescriptive it is. While many tactical manuals default to the vague “it depends,” this author avoids that cop-out and offers clear, actionable advice. Yes, this can lead to occasional oversimplification, but it’s a fair trade-off for the clarity it provides. Lastly, the depth of detail is impressive. The author takes a single operation, like conducting an ambush, and explores every angle, ensuring nothing is overlooked. Highly recommended for anyone interested in tactics.
"Small Unit Tactics" is a refreshing and engaging take on tactical doctrine, offering a balance of precision, practicality, and humor. The author’s writing style is direct and often dryly funny, making complex concepts surprisingly enjoyable to read. I appreciated the frequent references to other military manuals, particularly the Ranger Handbook, which provides useful context and credibility without feeling overly academic. The accompanying graphics are a standout feature, helping to visualize key points and bringing the text to life.
One of the book’s strengths is how prescriptive it is. While many tactical manuals default to the vague “it depends,” this author avoids that cop-out and offers clear, actionable advice. Yes, this can lead to occasional oversimplification, but it’s a fair trade-off for the clarity it provides. Lastly, the depth of detail is impressive. The author takes a single operation, like conducting an ambush, and explores every angle, ensuring nothing is overlooked. Highly recommended for anyone interested in tactics.
September 29, 2024
Superbly illustrated and comprehensive
A very impressive and a very comprehensive manual on small unit military tactics.
While I do not have any background or experience in the military, it is an area and profession that has always intrigued me and I was interested in learning more. I was genuinely impressed by how much content, detail and insight is packed into the manual and how well organised & structured the book is.
Broken firstly into parts or phases such as creating an ambush, link up etc. The book provides very clear and detailed explanations and definitions for context, then builds on to the glossary with the actual tactics. However, the most impressive part of this manual is the superb and professional graphics and photographs which illustrate each section and visualise the tactics.
There are no short cuts in this book. The author provides great detail and value for money and I would definitely recommend this for anyone looking to learn more about modern military tactics.
A very impressive and a very comprehensive manual on small unit military tactics.
While I do not have any background or experience in the military, it is an area and profession that has always intrigued me and I was interested in learning more. I was genuinely impressed by how much content, detail and insight is packed into the manual and how well organised & structured the book is.
Broken firstly into parts or phases such as creating an ambush, link up etc. The book provides very clear and detailed explanations and definitions for context, then builds on to the glossary with the actual tactics. However, the most impressive part of this manual is the superb and professional graphics and photographs which illustrate each section and visualise the tactics.
There are no short cuts in this book. The author provides great detail and value for money and I would definitely recommend this for anyone looking to learn more about modern military tactics.
October 7, 2024
Matthew Luke's Small Unit Tactics: An Illustrated Manual is a testament to the author's ability to present complex military concepts in a clear, concise, and engaging manner. The book and its illustrations are user-friendly with jargon-free explanations, diagrams, and real-life examples. Even those with no prior military experience can grasp the concepts here. The manual covers a wide range of topics from basic terminology to advanced tactics. It's a valuable resource for both beginner and experienced soldiers. I enjoyed the use of illustrations to enhance the understanding and retention of information. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in military small unit tactics and its clarity, comprehensiveness, and practical focus make it a valuable resource for both military personnel and civilians. The author's ability to present complex concepts in a relatable and engaging manner ensures that readers of all levels benefit. I recommend this book to anyone wanting a refresher or education on this matter.
October 21, 2024
Well Laid Out and Understandable
This book is searchable, well organized and impactful. Full disclosure, I have not served in the arm forces and cannot speak to the efficacy of the tactics outlined in this book. That being said, I read this for educational purposes and to increase my understanding of historical events. This books is a proper manual with glossaries, indexes, footnotes and references which I appreciated and used frequently. I read this as an ebook on an iPad and I would recommend reading it on a full color device. The diagrams are simple yet understandable and having the ability to zoom in and annotate easily was helpful. I was able to go back and search for terms as needed. It covers a variety of topics including traveling by various methods, formations in which to engage the enemy, laying traps and larger scale ambushes. Each concept is kept to about a page and includes diagrams, real world pictures and a short description. I will definitely be keeping this manual handy while researching and studying different historical events.
This book is searchable, well organized and impactful. Full disclosure, I have not served in the arm forces and cannot speak to the efficacy of the tactics outlined in this book. That being said, I read this for educational purposes and to increase my understanding of historical events. This books is a proper manual with glossaries, indexes, footnotes and references which I appreciated and used frequently. I read this as an ebook on an iPad and I would recommend reading it on a full color device. The diagrams are simple yet understandable and having the ability to zoom in and annotate easily was helpful. I was able to go back and search for terms as needed. It covers a variety of topics including traveling by various methods, formations in which to engage the enemy, laying traps and larger scale ambushes. Each concept is kept to about a page and includes diagrams, real world pictures and a short description. I will definitely be keeping this manual handy while researching and studying different historical events.
November 13, 2024
Small Unit Tactics: An Illustrated Manual is an excellent guide on how best to use foot soldiers in modern war. The pictures, illustrations, and diagrams combined with the text are informative and interesting. Information is presented clearly, with the opportunity to expand upon the information given by the material through bonus questions and fun facts littered throughout the text.
I read this book through the ebook version on my iPhone. There were no problems in reading the text or seeing the pictures and diagrams. Some were a bit blurry, but I don’t blame the author for that. It’s more a problem with the small screen size, and I’m sure it would look fine when viewed on a larger screen. Still, the information presented through the diagrams is clear to see even on a small screen.
Suppose you’re looking for a manual to teach soldiers how to conduct themselves during a mission, or you’re interested in learning such material for yourself. In that case, I highly recommend reading Small Unit Tactics: An Illustrated Manual. You won’t be disappointed.
I read this book through the ebook version on my iPhone. There were no problems in reading the text or seeing the pictures and diagrams. Some were a bit blurry, but I don’t blame the author for that. It’s more a problem with the small screen size, and I’m sure it would look fine when viewed on a larger screen. Still, the information presented through the diagrams is clear to see even on a small screen.
Suppose you’re looking for a manual to teach soldiers how to conduct themselves during a mission, or you’re interested in learning such material for yourself. In that case, I highly recommend reading Small Unit Tactics: An Illustrated Manual. You won’t be disappointed.
August 18, 2024
This is a must-have for anyone interested in the nitty-gritty of infantry operations. Whether you're a seasoned soldier or just starting out, this book offers practical, real-world advice that's both engaging and easy to understand.
Luke, with his extensive Special Operations background, doesn't just give you the theory—he shows you how to put it into practice. The book covers everything from sneaking behind enemy lines to executing a flawless ambush, with clear, step-by-step instructions that make even complex tactics approachable. The full-color images and diagrams really help.They make it so much easier to grasp the maneuvers, especially if you're someone who learns visually. Unlike the typical, dense military manuals full of jargon, this book breaks things down into manageable pieces, pairing the explanations with visuals that really drive the point home.
Luke’s emphasis on precision, preparation, and adaptability makes this an invaluable addition to any soldier's toolkit.
Luke, with his extensive Special Operations background, doesn't just give you the theory—he shows you how to put it into practice. The book covers everything from sneaking behind enemy lines to executing a flawless ambush, with clear, step-by-step instructions that make even complex tactics approachable. The full-color images and diagrams really help.They make it so much easier to grasp the maneuvers, especially if you're someone who learns visually. Unlike the typical, dense military manuals full of jargon, this book breaks things down into manageable pieces, pairing the explanations with visuals that really drive the point home.
Luke’s emphasis on precision, preparation, and adaptability makes this an invaluable addition to any soldier's toolkit.
November 24, 2024
There’s a reason why this novel is extremely popular. Small Unit Tactics is a gorgeous novel that has clearly been written by someone with know-how. I don’t have any background or experience in the military, as the closest I have ever been to live combat is paintball. Yet I found this book excellent, from not only the content, but down to the formatting as well. There is so much to delve into because this book simply has it all.
Of course, operators and other live service people will no doubt pick this apart, but as someone who is new to this field, this is something that is simple and makes sense. Not only is the written content informative, but the graphics and other pieces of content in the book really pull it together as well. I am a big fan of this illustrated book and totally deserves a place on my shelf, not just in an ebook format.
Recommended for anyone into military tactics etc.
Of course, operators and other live service people will no doubt pick this apart, but as someone who is new to this field, this is something that is simple and makes sense. Not only is the written content informative, but the graphics and other pieces of content in the book really pull it together as well. I am a big fan of this illustrated book and totally deserves a place on my shelf, not just in an ebook format.
Recommended for anyone into military tactics etc.
February 9, 2025
While I am, not intending to invade a small country I found Small Unit Tactics: An Illustrated Manual an excellent introduction to military tactics for small groups. I am writing a fantasy novel, and my new Battle of Helm’s Deep was missing anything resembling realism, so I wanted to see what an actual battle should look like. So people who served didn’t scream at my book and cry “that’s not how you do it. You idiot.” With hundreds of color images and diagrams, this made it easy to visualize and understand
I’m sure this would be of more interest to actual military personnel. Other reviews gave it 5 stars and I am sure they are right. For a lay person with a casual interest, or just to make your novel a bit more realistic it is a great resource. It’s very comprehensive and well laid out. Even outside of my research, it was an interesting book, I do like to read things I know nothing about and maybe learn something.
I’m sure this would be of more interest to actual military personnel. Other reviews gave it 5 stars and I am sure they are right. For a lay person with a casual interest, or just to make your novel a bit more realistic it is a great resource. It’s very comprehensive and well laid out. Even outside of my research, it was an interesting book, I do like to read things I know nothing about and maybe learn something.
February 13, 2025
This was way above what I ever expected to learn, and I gotta say, it honestly blew my mind with how deep and detailed it gets. The information here is outstanding, and the meticulusly drawn illustrations really help make complicated ideas easy to understand. You can tell the author truly gets this stuff and has poured their heart into every bit of research. Whether you’re trying to sharpen your tactical instincts, expand your strategic horizons, or just understand what it really takes to triumph in real-life or simulated combat, you’ll find tons of value in this guide. If you’re a military pro aiming for a serious edge, or a civilian super into military-themed gaming where you want to come out on top, you’re in the right place. Get ready to level up your skills, question what you think you know, and explore new layers of mastery with every page. Don’t mis out on this.
March 11, 2025
This is a very detailed (sometimes too much, if that makes sense), comprehensive manual on small unit operations, written by an actual special ops veteran. It’s easy to read, and especially the images and diagrams are a bonus, helping with digestibility. As per the author’s own admission, it’s written in a way where it “tells the story of one entire mission from start to finish, teaching a simple yet complete ambush.” So, reading this book, you really get the sense that you’re there, doing it in real life. I have a passing interest in military tactics, but after reading this, it’s given me a whole new perspective on the matter.
I would recommend it to both hardcore military enthusiasts and to those who only have a passing interest, like I do. In fact, I’d also recommend it to fiction writers who want a great resource that shows them how real battles are conducted.
November 8, 2024
Matthew Luke's, "Small Unit Tactics" is an outstanding guide for anyone looking to master infantry tactics and lead effectively in combat situations. With over 10,000 copies sold, this best-selling manual, written by U.S. Army Special Forces veterans, provides clear, step-by-step instructions that make complex concepts accessible. The book covers crucial skills, such as moving behind enemy lines, executing ambushes, and withdrawing without a trace, all illustrated with over 170 full-color diagrams and photos that enhance understanding. Real-life examples further enrich the learning experience, making this guide invaluable for both conventional and guerrilla warfare scenarios. For those ready to elevate their tactical knowledge and leadership skills, this manual is a must-have resource.
March 8, 2025
Excellent valuable resource for understanding infantry operations. As a non military person who has an interest in this it is very clearly explained and easy to follow.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews