Number 16 in the old Osprey Modelling Manuals series covers the Soviet T-34/76 & T-34/85 medium tanks.  Published in 2001, this is the first of two books published by Osprey covering the T-34.  (Scott van Aken’s review of the second book can be read here.)

 This book features six different 1/35 scale build articles based on Tamiya series of T-34 kits:  T-34 Model 1942; a step-by-step T-34 chassis cross-kit of Dragon T-34/85 Model 1944 and Tamiya or Zveda T-34/76; T-34/76 Model 1943; T-34/85; T-34/85 Model 1944; and T-34/85, Croatia, Balkan Civil War.

 All of these builds feature lots of modification and use of aftermarket parts, and in the case of the last build, some cross-kitting with a T-55. These are straightforward projects, and intermediate modelers should have little problems accomplishing them.

 Along with the builds, the book features a brief history of the T-34; twenty-three walkaround photos of a preserved T-34/76 Model 1941; scale drawings of the T-34/76 Model 1941, T-34/85 Model 1944, and seven T-34 turret variants; a summary of camouflage and markings; six color profiles; a listing of currently (2001) available kits and accessories, and a listing of print and online references.

 An excellent book on the subject, particularly for those modelers choosing to use the Tamiya kits.

Ben Hom

October 2008

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