Stormbird Colors

by

Brett Green
&
Benjamin Evans

Eagle Editions

Reviewed by Floyd S. Werner Jr.

"Stormbird Colors" may be ordered from Squadron.com

"Stormbird Colors - Construction, Camouflage and Markings of the Me 262" is the latest release from Eagle Editions. Some time ago I approached Brett about reviewing the book when it became available and he graciously agreed. Somehow it just wouldn’t be right for the author to review his own book, now would it?

"Stormbird Colors" is printed on 88 pages of high quality paper with a number of previously unpublished photographs in black and white and in color, plus beautiful cover art and ten profiles by renowned artist Tom Tullis. The research is well founded, as can be expected from all of Eagle Edition’s releases.

If there is one thing that is always sure to get people talking it is late war Luftwaffe camouflage. Brett and Ben have done a wonderful job of presenting the evolution of the camouflage of the Me-262. Their conclusions are based on a combination of first hand observation and the latest technology. The authors draw on numerous photographs and documents to present these latest revelations. One of the more interesting surprises is the use of a Dark Gray seam filling putty on the Me 262, and not the expected Zinc color. This is supported by color photos from the period. Also interesting is the RLM 74/75/76 mid war scheme was worn longer than thought. The text and photos will shed some very interesting light on the application of late war greens and why they appear as they do. Hint - it has to do with the preshading!

The text briefly summarises the development of the Me-262 and Jumo 004 engines. The history of “Black X” and the pilot Hans-Robert Froehlich are covered, as well as a short history of KG 51, the "Crop Damage Geschwader", Me 262 operations. There are some interesting Parts Manual diagrams that include the placement of the data plates.

Especially nice are the 1/48th scale drawings by Gunther Sengfelder. Tom Tullis provides numerous paintings of RV bands and other markings as well as the 10 color profiles. These are all up to his typical high standard and depict some excellent modeling subjects. There are also two photos as an Addendum to Brett’s last book, “Augsburg’s Last Eagles”.

The majority of the book covers the paint scheme of “Black X”, the Me 262 being stored in Australia at the Treloar Technology Centre. The color photos are of high definition and explore all parts of this airplane. There are some interesting points including the use of RLM 05 Cream on some components.

Bottom line, do I recommend this book?

Enthusiastically yes. It is well written and expertly illustrated. It will be a valuable asset to anyone interested in late war German camouflage and the Me-262. Many questions are answered by the research. Brett and Ben are to be commended for an excellent offering. I look forward to their next work.

The book should be available at the IPMS/USA Nationals in Virginia Beach, as will the decals for some of Tom Tullis' aircraft profiles.

Recommended.

Thanks to Brett and Eagle Editions for the review copy.

Augsburg's Last Eagles is available direct from Eagle Editions website or specialist bookstores

Review Copyright © 2002 by Brett Green
This Page Created on 20 July, 2002
Last updated 22 July, 2003

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