Accion Press Modelismo
Model Laboratory No 2
Junkers Ju-88 A-4, Gerbini (Sicily) 1942

Reviewed by Rodger Kelly

HyperScale is proudly supported by Squadron.com
 

Accion Press, S.A. are based in Madrid, Spain and are well known as the publisher of the superb Euro Modelismo magazine.

Model Laboratory appears to be a spin-off of the magazine with just two editions being published to date, this one and No 1 which concentrates on the Panther Ausf.G.

The book is basically an excellent quality photo essay of the construction, detailing, painting and weathering of the 1/48 scale Dragon Junkers JU-88 A-4 kit.

It is logically laid out in the way that you would go about building the kit.  It details what aftermarket accessories are used, provides a detailed colour chart that lists the RLM paint codes to the respective areas of the airframe and how to realise these by mixing (in the main) Tamiya paints.  Tips are offered throughout the text on how to deal with the various mediums used – the best way in which to cut resin parts from their pour stubs, how to prepare photo-etch parts, cut them from their fret and how to bend, fold and glue them for the best effects.

Basic construction is dealt with including how to remove the various parts from the sprues and prepare them for use.  The different glues and their merits are discussed too as is seam clean-up and re-scribing/riveting.  You are also guided here too on how to overcome the particular foibles of the Dragon kit including how to integrate the ill fitting wing tips.

Canopy masking is dealt with rather swiftly by referring you to the Eduard masking set.

Painting is next and the particular machine being modelled was based in Sicily and is finished in a basic finish of RLM 71/72/65 with an overspray of RLM 79 and 65.  You are advised on masking methods as well as “post shading” techniques and how to use the “hairspray” technique to show paint chipping.

Decaling is next and you are shown how to both use the decaling system as well as how to mask and spray your own markings.

The final part shows you how to use oil paints to weather the model.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Thumbnail panels:

The final two parts provide (four) colour side profile drawings as well as a three-page illustrated listing of available aftermarket accessories for the Ju-88 in 1/32, 1/48 and 1/72 scale.

The images used throughout the pages are first rate indeed, all in full colour and all are sharp and clear.  The images are a good mix in that they are large enough to be able to clearly see the point s being illustrated.  187 images are featured in all.

The book is A-4 in size soft bound and comprises 38 good quality semi-gloss pages.

All up, it is well presented indeed and if using the old adage of “if a picture paints a thousand words” then there are many thousands of words between the covers of this book.

The only down side is that the translation from Spanish to English is a little clumsy in places but it does not detract from the overall package too much.

The book is listed on the Euro Modelismo website at €7.00 which is pretty good value for what you receive as far as I am concerned.

Review Copyright © 2013 by Rodger Kelly
This Page Created on 27 June, 2013
Last updated 27 June, 2013

Back to HyperScale Main Page

Back to Reviews Page