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Schiffer Publishing |
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The Master Scratch Builder by John Alcorn |
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Reviewed By Ed Kinney, #2989 |
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MSRP: $39.95 USD Before I begin this review, I need to clear the air on something… Some of my closest friends in the IPMS Circle have referred to yours truly as a Master Modeler (choke, cough, cough, choke!) Let me state that the accuracy of this statement would be akin to saying that Pamela Anderson is this century’s Twiggy. Thanks a bunch guys! I mean, c’mon! Nothing brings out the absurdity of that claim more than this amazing book. It is a well-documented collection of the True Masters. The book is edited by John Alcorn and dedicated to the late George Lee, whom many consider to be the absolute Grand Master of all times. Over the years, I fortunately had the opportunity to meet both of these incredible builders, and see their work first hand. Beside the two aforementioned, there’s a collection of twenty true masters, over 300 black and white and full color, beautiful photographs of their workmanship, and not just the aircraft models themselves. There are numerous step-by-step photos and text on just how these museum pieces came into being. There are text and photos covering construction methods, including building alignment jigs, fixtures, spar and stringer placement, laying up fiberglass forms, engine fabrication, and many other techniques far too numerous to mention. The book begins in Chapter 1 with a “how to” section on vacu-forming and basic model structure by Alcorn. Also included are chapters on “Model Research and Photography” by Clark Macomber, “Tools, Materials & Supplies” by John Alcorn, “Finishing” by Peter Chalmers. Some of the works featured are as follows:
Most of these efforts are 1/24th scale (who said size doesn’t matter?). In addition, there are some tips on the making of decals, or masks for painted on markings. Also you’ll find a knockout method written by Rodney Williams for a natural metal finish that was originally developed by an early IPMS member, Les Sundt, whose work has appeared in numerous modeling publications. I think the photograph that blew me away the most was the image of a scratch built cowling piece (by George Lee, of course) containing louvered panels that are mind boggling! And these are just the highlights! If you’d like to see a collection of the “Best of the Best” it’s here. In actuality, it’s a study of AMS (advanced modeling syndrome) run amok. Who knows, maybe someday I’ll be worthy to carry paintbrushes for one of them. For the serious modeler, an absolute must-have. Available through Schiffer Books website at www.schifferbooks.com, priced at $ 39.95. |
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