I received the newest issue of Self Reliance Illustrated in the mail a couple of days ago. I have to say, this might be the best issue I’ve seen yet!

Here’s what I like about SRI. They always have a great mix of topics. Everything from wilderness survival to information of use to urban preppers is covered. The magazine is obviously professionally published, rather than appearing as though it is a high school class project. In each issue, the writers come across as truly knowing what they’re talking about.

Out of 20 or so articles in this issue, there are a few that really stood out to me.

Shemagh 101 by Daniel Mervine is an excellent overview of the many uses of this versatile item. One thing we survivalists and preppers truly value is gear that serves multiple purposes. The shemagh certainly qualifies — head wrap, camouflage, hobo pack, sling, expedient water filter, the list goes on and on. In his article here, Mervine describes each use in great detail.

Knots by Scott Wickham Jr. details five knots that are required in BUD/S training. These are:

–Bowline
–Sheet bend
–Square knot
–Right angle knot
–Clove hitch

The instructions for each are very easy to follow, with several photos. Each of these knots are essential to know.

I’m always a sucker for an article about DIY survival kits so A Common Mans’ Backpack by George Nikolakopoulos caught my attention right away. Starting with a medium size ALICE pack, Nikolakopoulos takes us through each area of his kit and what he carries to meet all of his basic needs.

My favorite article in this issue has to be Stay on the Right Track by Bob Lee. He is a retired Florida Game Warden and truly knows his stuff when it comes to tracking anything on two or four legs. In this article, Lee gives some excellent information regarding using the sun as well as tracking sticks to help stay on the right track.

All in all, this is another great issue of SRI. As I mentioned, there are about 20 articles here, along with several product reviews. The info to advertising ratio is very good, as always.