Reviewed by Rob Baumgartner

 
Osprey's Modelling Scale Aircraft is available online from Squadron.com

There are many modellers just starting out in the quest to build the perfect airplane. These “newbies” will need guidance. One book that will point them in the right direction is this latest publication in the “Osprey Modelling” series.

It follows the standard format of eighty pages, these being contained within soft card covers.

An important aspect of the subject matter is the need for clear step-by-step photographs. These are provided with over 240 images, which give the reader an unambiguous visual representation of what the author is discussing in the text.

To cover the many aspects of aircraft modelling, the book is sensibly broken up into 8 chapters. Logically it begins with the various materials considered essential in this hobby as well as those luxury items that many will aspire to attain.

The importance of reference material is not forgotten and this precedes the sections devoted to building your kit.

Preparation, types of glue and construction techniques take centre stage in the next few chapters. The tricks of painting realistic interiors are revealed and the copious photographs leave little to the imagination.

Detailing is a very personal issue when it comes to modelling. For those that would like to try their hand at it, the author gives his views on the subject. Resin and photo-etched parts are discussed as well as the often terrifying matter of scratch building.

Filling and sanding get a chapter of their own and a wide variety of methods and materials are covered. Masking is also examined which leads nicely into the painting and markings section. The differences in dealing with laquers, enamels, acrylics and oil colours are reviewed and this includes the various methods of application.

The process of weathering and final detailing round out the publication. If done properly, pre and post shading, washes, pastels and diffusion can all add realism to your aircraft. These come under the spotlight here as well as a handy expose on how to tame the infamous vacform canopy.

A title such as this needs competent modellers to showcase the ideas being discussed. Fortunately the team chosen to present their skills are well up to the task. Along with the author’s fine work, the excellent models of Chris Wauchop, Mike Robertson, and Mick Evans add to the visual education process.

This is an excellent treatise on how to competently complete your models.

The text is easy to read and the techniques described are put forward in an easy to digest manner.

One of the highlights of the book is that it covers all aspects of modelling scale aircraft. From the initial preparation through to the end result, the author is not afraid to reveal his “secrets”.

Highly Recommended

Thanks to Osprey Publishing for the review sample

Review Copyright © 2008 by Rob Baumgartner
Page Created 23 April, 2008
Last updated 23 April, 2008

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