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Author: Alex Clark There has been an explosion in small scale armor in recent years, with both kits aimed at wargaming and more detailed models for the dedicated scale modeler. With quality new-tool kits from Revell, Dragon, and Trumpeter and classic subjects from ESCI, Hasegawa, and Airfix, there is no shortage of subjects to build. Even better, the growth of subject kits by mainstream manufacturers has brought about a matching expansion of aftermarket accessories. All this together makes it a great time to build small scale armor. This latest book from Osprey tackles the subject of small scale armor modeling in their Masterclass series. For those not familiar with Osprey's Masterclass series, this collection of books provides a manual for use in the hobby room. Its spiral binding makes it easy to stand up on the workbench for direct reference while working on a model. The series generally follows a sequential process, beginning with tools and materials and moving on through basic construction, basic finishing, advanced techniques, and ending with a gallery. For small scale armor modeling, there are some tools that might not be in the average modeler's inventory. The chapter in this book that covers the tools highlights these other tools, while also talking about the usual suspects such as knives, saws, glues, and files. The subject-specific tools include riveting tools and armor-specific weathering products. Moving into the construction section, there are a lot of very useful techniques presented, such as how to fill ejector pin marks and how to work with tracks. Advanced construction techniques covers creating new parts, using aftermarket accessories, and adding those small details that make the finished model look that much more realistic. Painting and finishing is one of the more challenging aspects of armor modeling, as these vehicles are rarely clean. From paint fading to dust and grime, weathering plays a huge part in finishing a realistic-looking model. Further, there are temporary camouflages such as white winter camouflages that add even more challenges. This book goes through a whole slew of techniques for all of these challenges, and even includes a section on painting figures to add a human touch to your finished model. This is a great addition to the Osprey Masterclass series and will be of great use to those modelers wanting to give small scale modeling a try. My thanks to Osprey Publishing for the review copy. |
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