The
Panzer IV was, at the time of initial operational service, to be the main battle
tank for the German Army. This basically meant it was to be used as much for
infantry support, if not more, than as a tank killer. Indeed, it was unable to
do much against the French Char Bis and the British Matilda, which had far too
thick an armor for the guns used in the early Panzer IV. Operational service
showed that the Panzer IV's own armor was insufficient to combat the hits of
some Allied anti-tank guns.
As is always the case with tanks during this time, it
was a constant effort to stay one step ahead of the enemy. When it came to
German armor, while new tanks were developed, for the most part, what was
reliable, such as the Panzer IV, was upgraded with guns, armor and other
equipment so that the flow to the front lines from factories was not
interrupted.
This book is one of the latest in the Photosniper series
and is the first of two parts covering the last incarnations of the Panzer IV,
the H and J.
The author starts us off by providing a nice history on
the development of the Panzer IV as well as the changes made in the subsequent
variations on the theme. We then get to a substantial look at the various
systems and physical aspects of these tanks. All the while, we are treated to
some great period photos of these tanks. This is followed by a look at parts of
these tanks in a series of full color photos of extant vehicles. The last and
largest portion of the book consists of 3D artwork of both the overall vehicle
and details. This makes the book a real boon for enthusiasts and modelers alike
as we can see how these components were situated in clear images. Often museum
vehicles are missing bits and pieces so are not as complete a representation as
we might like.
Overall, it makes for an excellent reference and is one
that any fan of German WWII armor is going to want on his shelves.
May 2017
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