Military Model Scene

Title: Modelling German WWII Armoured Vehicles

Author: Robin Buckland

Publisher: The Crowood Press

ISBN: 978-1-78500-515-2

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This new book is my own, but as I can't really write one for myself, my thanks go to long time member of MAFV, Tom Cole, who has submitted this review for me.

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Author Robin Buckland needs no introduction to the many military model makers who will be aware of his long running series in the late lamented Military Modelling magazine, where Robin produced “Small Scale Scene” for thirty one years.  In this book Robin uses his considerable knowledge to look at many aspects of making models of German armour as used during World War II. 

The historical background chapter is followed by details of tools and materials from the basics to the more advanced.  This is reinforced by chapters that describe building out of the box and hints and tips on painting and weathering.  The chapter on choosing your model looks at the vast array of kits of German vehicles that are currently available in the major scales and the modelling section ends with a chapter that looks at the aftermarket accessories available to add extra detail.  The final chapter provides details of full size vehicles with numerous reference photographs.

Plastic kits of various scales form the main body of the text but resin and metal kits also feature and Robin Buckland looks in depth at the different techniques used for the various media, including the use of etched brass.  He looks back at his early days of model making and takes us on a journey through to the present day.  His extensive knowledge and passion for the subject is clear throughout the book and his writing style makes for easy reading. 

Military modelling, particularly of German World War II armoured vehicles, is a vast subject but Robin goes from the early War Kfz 13 Armoured car through to a photograph of the Ratte “Paper panzer” and covers all of the major and many of the minor AFVs from World War II.   There are numerous books available on the subject both from a modelling perspective and of the real thing but Robin has captured the spirit of the subject that will encourage many to learn more. 

Modelling German World War II Armoured Vehicles will appeal to military model makers of all ages and skill levels.  Offering many practical tips, the aim is to encourage young people new to the hobby as well as those of more senior years that are returning to the hobby after some years.  In depth information about the important German armour is woven throughout the model making chapters and the juxtaposition of kits and the real vehicles makes for interesting and informative reading.  Lavishly illustrated throughout, the photographs of models and the real thing are produced in great clarity. 

This is a great book for both those new to the hobby and those returning after a long break.  More experienced modellers will appreciate the variety of photographs of the real vehicles that are either held in museums or in private collections.  Highly recommended to all interested in German AFVs regardless of age and skill levels.

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Tom Cole