AFV Modeler Ltd.

AFV Modeler #48 Sep/Oct 2009

Reviewed By  Michael Novosad, IPMS# 36721

MSRP: $40.00 for a six-month subscription issued bi-monthly Website: www.afvmodeller.com I have often seen this publication in the magazine racks at several hobby shops, as well as advertised in several mail order catalogs, and on various websites. I had always been put off by the cost, as I thought the magazine was rather "pricey". Since this issue was free, I could really enjoy it, no matter the content. I am most interested in learning about detailing and finishing techniques. Articles that are more involved than just a build review grab my attention. Color images that compliment the text are also valuable, and allow me to better understand and appreciate the article's content. Format The cover for this issue has two eye-catching images of an M1126 Stryker. The publication is printed on medium-weight glossy paper, with color images on every page. In some article there are several images numbered and keyed to the text. This issue contain 64 pages. Contents The first article is by Francisco Angel Vazquez Infantes, and the subject is the Accurate Armor Ferret. There are several detailed images of the interior, both un-painted and painted. Amazing detail is revealed in all the images, and if this is not incentive to add detail to your next project, I do not know what is! The author acknowledges that painting this model was going to be a challenge, and provides the reader with the step-by-step process. Painting of the many accessories is addressed in several paragraphs. The author does comment that he was a bit disappointed in the end result being somewhat darker than he had planned, but the end results are stunning. The second is by Emilien Pepin, who builds the AFV Club Stryker. No time is spent on the build, but rather is focused on the painting and weathering. The goal was to build a vehicle with both "wet" and "dry" weathering effects. Did he accomplish the task?? Read it to see, and learn how it was accomplished. Next, Zack Sex (yes, that must be his name) and David Coyne present a tag-team article to build two very unusual military vehicles used by the Bulgarian Military. The article has a lengthy introduction that is quite informative. Both real vehicles were modified from their original intent by their new owners. The finished models are combined in a diorama that represents a little known recent historical event. Painting and weathering techniques result is two very interesting models. The narrative is handed off between the two modelers from assembly, to painting to weathering. The heavy weathering of the older modified vehicle is quite impressive and realistic. David Doyle offers up a splendid article on the vehicles utilized in the Viet Nam conflict. Many color images with accompanying text are included for an interesting read. David Doyle addresses the "Sherman up Close", with several up close and personal color images of a Sherman Tank. One black-and-white vintage images is included, along with many detailed close-ups. This would appear to be a handy reference for those willing to add details to their Sherman. The magazine's editor David Parker continues his article on Trumpeter's 1/16th scale King Tiger. This is part four and completes the engine compartment. Granted, this is a larger scale model, but the work and details involved are incredible. Included in the article is the author's formula for both the red oxide primer and the Elfenbein Ivory. The painting and slight weather efforts are most informative. Several new releases are reviewed, including paints, photo etch, figures and publications. These reviews can be helpful to modelers when deciding on their next purchase. The final article is by Jason Bobrovich describing his Canadian M109A4+ build of the old Italeri kit. This particular kit dates back to "ancient" times of the 1980's. It is always enjoyable to see an older kit, with details lacking in the sophistication of today's kit, built and detailed in an award-winning manner. This modeler seems to have the right stuff to transform the old kit to a fine model. Conclusion I am hooked!! I would recommend this publication to the serious AVF modeler. This is a very visual publication. First, I must assume this issue is representative of what is normally covered in each issue. The text is clear and concise, and the images are close up and clear. Clear, concise information along with references and manufactures to offered. I especially enjoy seeing the assembled model prior to priming and painting: I like to see all the revisions and added details as well as the original kit parts. If you are interested in learning and seeing new, and sometimes not so new techniques, this is the publication to have. Check out the web site for back issues and articles contained therein. Note My review copy arrived in a shrink-wrapped clear plastic package. Included was a resubscription or change of address form. Listed were the costs for the various subscription options. The 2-year USA subscription rate was shown as $180.00, while on the back cover of the publication the same subscription was $145.00. Thanks to AFV Modeler Ltd and IPMS/USA for the opportunity to review this fine publication.