I was debating between here and /r/books but I thought this would provide a more historical view on which translation is best. I recently purchased a copy of The Art of War translated by Ralph D. Sawyer at a second hand bookstore and after research on here I have discovered there are many different translations. Is this just a version for people who have heard of tis book and want to read it because its popular? Is it a good translation for military tactics? If not what would be the best to buy?
I think is what you're looking for is a 'Dynamic translation'. But I would refer you to ask such a question regarding translations over to /r/linguistics.