Model Art Co, Ltd

AFV Super Detail Photo Book Volume 4 Panzer Jager 38(t) - Marder III

Reviewed By  Mike Howard, IPMS# 30741

MSRP: ¥2500 JPY (approx $20.55 USD) Model Art is imported by Dragon USA (www.dragonmodelsusa.com During the Blitzkrieg, the German army was well known for making the best possible use of captured equipment. Hence, when a new self-propelled anti-tank gun was needed in 1941, the German designers found a large quantity of both Russian made 7.62cm guns and Czech made Panzer 38(t) chassis available for use. After the Russian gun was rechambered to fire the more powerful 7.5cm German made AT round and mated to the Panzer 38(t) chassis, the Marder III series was born. This new release from ModelArt is well timed with the newer 1/35th scale Marder kit offerings from both Tamiya and Dragon. The coverage on this volume ranges from the early, initial Marder series information to complete text and photo coverage of the Marder III H and M models. Eight pages of period black and white photos start the book and include some nice diorama and weathering ideas for those so inclined. Coverage of the early Marder series, using the Russian 7.62cm antitank guns is next. The overview of design, construction and use is conveyed via text and B&W pictures. There is also a section specifically on the Russian 7.62cm antitank gun. Several photos of period and restored examples are great for super detailers. The meat of the book is covered in the breakdowns of detailed info for both the Marder III "H" and "M" versions. Each model is covered separately and these sections are broken down into the following categories : Marder III H & M: History, Drawings, Hull, Interior, Running Gear, Fender, Fighting Compartment, Gun and Gun Shield and Camo. Here are a few examples of what you'll find :

Most of the text in these areas is in Japanese, but the pictures generally need no explanation. Again, these are the super detailers dream. Another helpful addition is a group of color profiles depicting various camouflage schemes from different times and theaters of operation. Overall a well laid out reference for building any of the three versions of the Marder III. There's isn't much that isn't covered in these pages and should be found to be very useful in your next Marder III build. A big thanks to ModelArt and IPMS USA for the sample!

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