I am an unabashed StuG fan. Though the concept itself was flawed and did not last past WWII, the vehicles are just neat. They are low and mean looking and with that short barreled gun, definitely look as if they mean business.

This new book on Modelling the StuG III is due out in October of this year and covers a number of builds in 1/35 scale. Though some previous books have dispensed with a few of the introductory sections, that is not the case with this. There is a short history of the type along with a section on tools and materials. Then it gets into the heart of the book; the build articles.

There are four of them in this edition, covering the main types:

StuG IIIB - Intermediate
StuG IIID - Advanced
StuG IIIG (early) - Master
StuG IIIG (late) - Advanced

This is followed by a Gallery section with models built by the author and his friend, Tom Cockle. These cover the variants that were not part of the main builds. I was not surprised to note that all of these builds used either Tamiya or Dragon kits as they have the best ones around. I also noted that the Intermediate build would classify as a Master build had this been an aircraft and not armor. That just gives you an idea of how intense the Master build is in this case. As I do mostly aircraft, I was amazed as the fine quality work and also picked up a few interesting ideas that could transfer over to my main modeling choice.

The book then continues with the section on Museums and Collections. I noted that nearly all the extant StuGs are the long barreled G version. Then it goes into references, and available kits and accessories. In the back is a section of color squares. I've said enough about my feelings towards these in other articles and I guess Osprey considers them to be a positive enhancement.

In line with others in this series, the photo coverage of the builds is top notch. There are lots of 'how to' images that show what is needed to get the desired results. Of course, this is sort of like those TV shows that build a house in a half hour. You can be shown stuff but it is practice that makes it turn out so well. Another superb title in this growing series and a book I know you will not only enjoy, but will also learn stuff. What a deal!

August 2006

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