Modelling the Panther TankReviewed by John Prigent
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Publisher and Title | Osprey Modelling 30, Modelling the Panther Tank, by Steve van Beveren, Osprey Publishing Ltd |
ISBN: | 1-84176-928-2 |
Media and Contents: | 80 pages |
Price: | US Price: $18.95, UK Price: £12.99, available online from Osprey Publishing |
Review Type: | First Read |
Advantages: | Interesting selection of modelling projects, subjects and colours; good photography; |
Disadvantages: | |
Recommendation: | Recommended |
FirstRead
This
is one I’ve been looking forward to, and I wasn’t disappointed.
After the usual sort introduction and section on suggested tools and
materials it details the building of five 1/35 scale models.
First is the DML Panther Ausf A
early, built as one used in Italy. This is an Intermediate level
build, using several aftermarket resin and etched sets to add
detail. Actual construction with these is quite straightforward, and
there’s a useful hints section on the adding of a zimmerit finish
before attention turns to painting and weathering which are
described in detail.
Next is a DML Ausf D modelled as at Kursk in 1943. This is at
Advanced level not just because of the greater number of aftermarket
sets used but because scratchbuilt resin castings are involved and
some etched parts are soldered together. The processes used are
clearly described and illustrated, making this a good guide for
anyone who hasn’t tried either technique before.
The third model is Tamiya’s Ausf G late type, built at Master level
as a tank from final production in March/April 1945. A complete
interior is added with CMK’s interior sets, plus many other
aftermarket parts, and many details are added or improved with
scratchbuilt parts – including some from “home-etched” metal, the
process for which is described for anyone who wants to make their
own etched parts. Finally there’s a Special Feature chapter,
modelling an Ausf A Bergepanther from DML’s early Ausf A and using
its turret for a complete Pantherturm ground mount. Both are set on
bases, with their construction described as clearly as are the two
models. The Bergepanther uses the winch and other parts from the
out-of-production On Track Models Bergepanther Ausf G, which still
appears on the secondhand market from time to time (it should be
possible to correct and detail parts from the Italeri Bergepanther
if you can’t find the On Track kit) and the Pantherturm’s ground
casemate is scratchbult from plastic card.
To end the book there’s a good section on the available 1/35 kits
and accessories. All the descriptions of the work done are clear,
and all stages are very well shown by photographs, so this is a good
book for modellers looking to improve their skills.
Recommended!
Thanks to Osprey Publishing for the review sample