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Hikoki Publications Luftwaffe Colours 1935-1945 by Michael Ullmann Reviewed By Doug Hamilton # 21985 |
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| "There have
been many volumes of published material on the subject of World War II
Luftwaffe paint schemes in the years since the war ended. Yet there
still seems to be as many questions today as there were 60 years ago,
particularly in the area of the “Phantom” late war colors of RLM 81, 82,
and 83. This 258 page, hard cover book, available through Specialty
Press Publishers attempts to take some of the mystery out of this area.
In it’s attempt, it succeeds quite nicely." The author takes the reader through the ten-year period logically and chronologically in a way that explains and illustrates the intricacies of German paint and marking concepts. Beginning with a basic discussion on what color is, and how it applies to the period in question, the author tells a compelling story on how the Luftwaffe viewed the camouflaging of it’s aircraft. Much of the information presented here is based on Directive Sheets of the time, as well as many previously unpublished photos depicting the specific items being discussed. The book is divided into 16 chapters that include information on early Lufthansa and zeppelin paints and markings. This information lays the foundation for the ideas and concepts used later in the war to good example. When viewed as a precursor to the coming directives, it shows a definite thought pattern evolving. A separate section on pre-war gliders is also examined. This also adds to the foundation laid out in the discussion of pre-war concepts. Of course the author examines the war years in great detail, not only explaining the colors and markings used, but gives the reader a series of official patterns used to designate the schemes on particular aircraft, with many coming from factory and RLM sources. Other areas of specific discussion include Maritime aircraft, Tropical colors, Night Fighters, and winter schemes. These sections are geared toward the modeler, and pay attention to applying paint to replicate these schemes. Of particular interest are the sections dealing with the application of paint, and the caring for of the material underneath. The Luftwaffe realized the need for proper and consistent paint application, as well as preparing the surface to accept the paint as applied. Much information is given to help the modeler understand how the paint was applied, and the prep used to achieve quality finishes. As is generally the case with any painted surface, the preparation used has a great effect in the quality of a completed finish. As the saying goes, “Good paint doesn’t mask a bad prep job”. The Luftwaffe understood this, and laid out specific methods to ensure quality finishes on its aircraft. Items such as thinners, drying agents and primers are covered in depth. I also liked the section dealing with repairing damaged surfaces. With so much emphasis placed on replicating battle damage today, the modeler now has a firm idea of how the repair was carried out based on the directives of the day. I for one have never seen this information in any other publication, and am glad to have it included here. Other areas covered in this book include Markings and Insignia and Aircraft Interiors. While these areas are covered in other publications, their inclusion here provides continuity in the overall view of the subject. To complete this history are three directives in their entirety, and quotations from correspondence between the RLM and the aircraft manufacturers dealing with the application and use of the materials. To end the volume, a chart showing all the colors mentioned in the book is included. This is of great help in determining the correct colors used in particular applications, and when compared to other samples should be viewed as accurate representations of the same colors. Overall, this work is very well thought out and provides an interesting and scholarly look into the colors and markings of Luftwaffe aircraft and the regulations coving their use and applications. I highly recommend it to all those that either build German aircraft, or have interest in a little looked at segment of the aircraft industry. This book is available through Specialty Press at the price of $49.95. My thanks go out to Specialty Press for supplying a copy of this book for review. Specialty Press Publishers 39966 Grand Ave. North Branch MN 55056 1 800 895 4585 |
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