Pat Martin is well known amongst those really interested in the more esoteric aspects of our hobby as providing excellent reference books. His first two books were on USN and USAF tail codes. He then produced a super book on Canadian Air Force markings for 1969 to the present a few years ago. This particular book covers the Royal part of the CAF from 1947 until 1968 when that part was dropped from the name.

As with most of the world's air forces, this period of time was one of a very large number of different types of aircraft as well as the change from mostly reciprocating to turbine powered aircraft. As in the switch from steam to diesel locomotives in the railroads, you could find both types operating at the same time.

Pat's book is 288 pages, spiral bound with color on both sides of the covers as well as an 8 page full color section. There are several hundred well printed and clear black and white photos throughout the book, the vast majority which are being published for the first time.

The book is broken down into six major sections: Intro, Finish, Markings, Special Purpose Schemes, Aircraft Types, and Appendicies.

The Introduction includes phraseology, abbreviations, acknowledgements and a section on how to use the book as well as background on the official drawings used in the book. One should not skip this section as it is invaluable to understanding the rest of the book.

Finish is dedicated to the basic overall color schemes used during this period.

Markings covers standard placement of insignia, codes as well as the proper sizing of these items.

The section on Special Purpose Schemes covers markings used by SAR aircraft, display teams, trainers, UN aircraft and the like.

By far the largest section of the book covers specific aircraft and is listed alphabetically from Albatross to Yukon. Each aircraft type has a brief history, RCAF units that flew the plane, and the markings used during various times of its RCAF history. Serials of some types are provided as well. Each section has the appropriate drawings corresponding to the various eras in which the aircraft was in service.

The Appendices cover airframe serial allocations, drawing numbers, and other miscellaneous information.

This isn't a book where one sits down and reads it from front cover to back in a few hours. At least, it isn't really designed in that manner. It is a reference book. After ingesting the basics on how the system works, the reader then uses it to learn about the specific types in which one is interested. I've had this book for several weeks and have read a bit every day. I've still got lots to go.

It is a book that will be of particular interest to modelers as it provides all the correct information on markings and camo schemes. Those just like reading about aircraft of the period will also find it a fascinating read as it covers classic aircraft of the time such as Mustangs, Mitchells, Lancasters, Sabres and Canucks. And of course, those who have an interest in the RCAF have to have this one on their shelves. It is a book that I highly recommend, not only for the depth of research that went into it, but because it is superbly formatted and well written.

Review book courtesy of Pat Martin. Thank you for your continued support. Here is a link to an order form.

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