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"Model
Expert" is a magazine published in Greece by Periscopio Publications that
covers a broad range of modelling subjects. The book being reviewed is the
second issue of an English-language special "Aviation Series"
 As
the name of the series implies, this soft-cover book focuses on aircraft
modelling. It has 84 pages (including the covers), it is published in full-colour on high quality paper
and the text is all in English.
"Aviation Series No. 2" follows a sensible formula. Modelling
articles are supported by colour profiles and reference photos. The 50 profiles
are a real highlight of this publication. 44 of these have been produced by
Richard J. Caruna (who also contributes a reference piece on Stukas over Malta),
while the remaining 6 are by Mihalis Solanakis. The standard of modelling, photography and profiles is very high indeed.
The articles in this book are weighted toward Luftwaffe subjects.
Specifically, the contents are:
-
Lancaster B.MkI/III
-
F-104G Mount Olympus Special Scheme
-
Junkers Ju 87B-2/U4 Stuka with Skis
-
Junkers Ju 87B-2
-
Italian Stukas over Malta
-
PBY-5A Catalina
-
Focke-Wulf Fw 190F-8
-
Focke-Wulf Fw 190D-9
I reviewed an issue of the "Model Expert" magazine around this time
last year. A few of the shortcomings discussed in my original review have been
addressed with this new publication. The full English text makes this book
relevant to modellers worldwide, and availability from Squadron takes care of
the availability issue.
The USD$18 price struck me as high. Despite the lack of advertising (a
key factor in pricing a publication such as this) "Aviation Series No.
2" still presents like a magazine. A magazine such as Replic or SAMI can be
had for less than USD$10. Nevertheless, eight full modelling articles is more
than one would expect in a standard modelling magazine, so you do get
significant "bang for your buck".
Furthermore, my price preconceptions are different for a Reference book. The
colour profiles, line drawings and contemporary photographs certainly makes this
publication a useful reference for Stukas in particular. Viewed as a Reference
book, USD$18 sounds more reasonable.
"Model Expert - Aviation Series No. 2" is a well executed aviation modelling
special. If you are interested in Stukas, Fw 190s or are building Tamiya's big
Lancaster, this will be a very useful publication.
Recommended.
Thanks to Stelios Demiras
from Periscopo Publications for the review sample.
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