Postwar armour modellers the world over were delighted a few years ago when Tamiya released a 1/35 scale kit of the T-55
tank, one of the most produced AFVs in history. WIth a bewildering number of variants and a huge range of markings to
choose from, the T-55 has become a favourite subject. This book features the T-55-related modelling efforts of three
master modellers, fellow Canadians Nic Cortese and Graeme Davidson and Australian Sam Dwyer. Together, they have produced
a remarkable book.
This book is in the standard format for this series: 80 pages of full colour photos plus a colour chip insert at
the rear with swatches of the paints used on the featured models. While the focus of the book is on the modelling projects,
there is also an introduction giving a brief history of the T-55, a discussion of tools, a listing of kits and aftermarket
materials in all scales available, and a short bibliography, including online resources (although I'm shattered that this
site's
T-54/T-55 Special section wasn't mentioned :-)). Short photo spreads of two models not featured in the main section of the book round
out the package.
As is typical with these books, four main projects are featured, all of which are gun tanks. First up is a Czech
T-55AM2B "Kladivo" built using the Tamiya 1/35 T-55 and the CMK T-55AM2 conversion, among other aftermarket goodies.
As the photos attest, this is not simply an "add resin and glue" project; the in-progress model has plenty of white styrene,
copper wire, and aluminum foil on it. While the focus of this chapter is on correcting and adapting the resin parts
to fit the kit and adding a variety of details, there is also a section on sculpting stowage from two-part epoxy putty and
a good explanation of how the model's intricate camouflage was painted.
The second model is also based on the Tamiya 1/35 T-55. This time, it has been converted into a Type 69-II in Iraqi
service during Operation Desert Storm and modelled as a destroyed vehicle. While the CMK T-55 engine compartment was
used for that section of the vehicle, the rest of the interior was scratchbuilt. This is, I must say, probably the best
description of how to model a destroyed vehicle that I have read. The techniques described for simulating burnt roadwheels
and exploded fuel cells are excellent, and the complicated painting and weathering needed to pull this off is also explained
clearly.
The third model is the only model not based on the Tamiya kit - this time the ACE and PST 1/72 scale kits are combined
with some aftermarket bits and an awful lot of elbow grease and scratchbuilding to create an accurate 1/72 scale model of
a T-55 in service with Northern Alliance forces in Afghanistan. This remarkable little model is quite spectacular, even
including an open engine deck. Fortunately, many of the photos of this model include common objects to provide scale,
for otherwise one would be forgiven for thinking it was 1/35 scale!
The final model in the book is the "jewel in the crown," so to speak: an amazing 1/35 rendition of the bizarre T-55/M18
Hybrid, built using the Tamiya T-55 hull and AFV Club M18 turret. Due to the open top of the turret, the entire turret
and hull interiors were scratchbuilt and superdetailed. Furthermore, almost every aspect of the vehicle's exterior were
also reworked. The net result is one of the finest models I have ever seen. This is one of those models that looks
so impressive in its unpainted state, when all of the white plastic hammers home just how much work went into it, that it
seems almost a shame to paint it. The exquisite paintwork is up to the task, however, especially in revealing details
in the fully scratchbuilt interior. In my opinion, the 24 pages on this model alone is worth the price of the entire
book.
This book does not feature any prototype photos, but references are cited for the more unusual vehicles modelled, the
T-55AM2B and the T-55/M18 Hybrid. While none of these projects are simple "shake and bake" types (the authors recommend
building the Tamiya T-55 out of the box if anybody is looking for that sort of project), each are documented well enough that
anybody wishing to could attempt to replicate them. It is obvious that the models in this book were built by people
with serious talent, however.
This is a fabulous book full of inspirational models and extraordinarily useful tips and techniques. Highly recommended
for anybody interested in postwar armour or outstanding models. Now how about a second volume, guys?
January 15, 2006
