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Ranger Handbooks Upgraded with PaperTyger

Written by Layla May | Aug 19, 2025 7:11:25 PM

In demanding environments where reliability and durability are non-negotiable, traditional paper often falls short. This is particularly true for applications such as military manuals and field guides that are used in harsh conditions. The U.S. Army Rangers, known for their rigorous training and operations, require materials that can withstand extreme environments. This case study explores how PaperTyger has been effectively used in the production of Ranger Handbooks, providing a durable solution that meets the needs of military personnel.

The Challenge

Ranger Handbooks are essential tools for U.S. Army Rangers, offering vital information that must remain accessible and readable in various conditions. The key challenges include:

  • Exposure to Elements: Handbooks must endure exposure to water, mud, and 
    extreme temperatures without becoming unreadable.
  • Wear and Tear: Constant handling, folding, and transportation in challenging 
    conditions can quickly degrade traditional paper.
  • Readability: Information must remain clear and legible despite the harsh 
    environment

PaperTyger's Solution

PaperTyger addresses these challenges through its unique properties:

  • Durability: The paper/film/paper laminate structure provides resistance to tearing, water, and grease, ensuring the handbooks remain intact and readable.
  • Ease of Printing:  PaperTyger’s compatibility with various printing methods allows for high-quality, sharp, and vibrant prints that are essential for readability in any light condition.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Unlike synthetic alternatives, PaperTyger’s paper surface provides compatibility with multiple inkjet and toner devices.

Real-World Application

PaperTyger's effectiveness is demonstrated through its application in Ranger Handbooks:

  • Field Durability: Ranger Handbooks made with PaperTyger have been tested in realworld scenarios, showing exceptional resistance to the elements. They withstand water, mud, and extreme temperatures, maintaining their integrity and readability.
  • Practical Use: Users have reported that the handbooks remain functional despite 
    being subjected to rigorous handling and challenging conditions. The durability of 
    PaperTyger ensures that critical information always remains accessible

Interview Insights

We had the opportunity to interview Brandon Brown, a Soldier who utilizes PaperTyger paper for his Ranger Handbook. Here’s why he chose PaperTyger:

"In 2022 I was given a Saddleback Leather 'Pocket Constitution,' which is leatherbound and printed on PaperTyger.

In January 2023, I let a friend borrow it for Special Forces Assessment and Selection. During 
the Land Navigation week, it was in his pocket the entire time. It rained, it snowed, he walked through creeks, and yet after completing the 'Star Course,' it still looked as good as new. I looked at my Pocket Constitution and my paper Ranger Handbook which had been in my pocket the entirety of Infantry training at Fort Benning. One had clearly held up, and one had not.

In order to protect Ranger Handbooks people put them in plastic bags or wrap them in duct 
tape; this little leather-bound constitution had made it on its own. So, I set out to make a 'Combat Proof' Ranger Handbook to gift friends as they graduate Ranger School using the same design: full grain leather and PaperTyger. After prototyping the first on a rainy field exercise, it once again held up. I couldn't be happier with how it came out."

Brandon also expressed gratitude towards Mark Weibel, National Sales Manager for PaperTyger at Chase Corporation, as well as Copy Systems Business Center, and SX Leather in California for their contributions to this project.

PaperTyger has proven to be a reliable and durable solution for producing Ranger Handbooks. Once again, its resistance to harsh conditions, ease of printing, and costeffectiveness make it an ideal choice for applications requiring sturdy and long-lasting materials. By meeting the demanding needs of military personnel, PaperTyger enhances the usability and longevity of crucial field guides, supporting operations in the most challenging environments.

 

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