Originally posted by mysticcowboy I totally agree. American magazines are 90% about making advertising dollars. The Brit publications much less so. Go to someplace the has a lot of magazines, like a Barnes & Noble or a magazine stand. Quickly go through any magazine and notice what percentage is about selling stuff. That includes reviews.
I realized that when I dropped my magazine subscriptions that I also dropped a lot of gear envy and craving. Yes, waiting for that next issue in the mail can be a good feeling. However, there are some superb online resources that far surpass most magazines in how-to information, both in depth and breadth.
I tend to find this the case as well. The US mags seem to be loaded with fluff, gear related articles (direct or indirect) and marketing; Bold proclamations on the cover, but lacking on actual content inside. The 'brit' ones seem much better (more walking the talk). This is not only with photography, but many other areas of interests as well (ie. cycling; triathlons; homes and funishings; wargaming; etc)
I've had luck to gather a years worth of dated
Practical Photography mags from the local library sale at approx $0.60 per copy. You may want to check if your local library does this as well. At least the theory is applicable but the gears are outdated so no LBA for them
Overall, mags would have to cater for the fresh readers, so they tend to be on the more basic side and repeat themselves every now and then. Actual photography books of specific interests, and the internet would be better after perhaps a one year worth of mags.