Military Model Scene

Title: TankCraft 38, Panther, Italian Front, 1944-45
Author: Dennis Oliver
Publisher: Pen & Sword
ISBN: 978-1-39906-500-9

This makes number 38 in the TankCraft series from publishers Pen & Sword, and another from author Dennis Oliver. A 64-page soft-cover book in the now established style for this series. Not the first one to tackle the Panther, but this time focussing on their use in Italy.
After an Introduction which gives the basic background to the story, a map and then 5 pages with a chronology of key events from the course of the campaign in Italy. Then comes the specific coverage of the various Panther units which served in the region. This includes a detailed table of the Tank Strength and Allocations for I Abteilung, Panzer-Regiment 4, between December 1943 and April 1945. Camouflage and Markings are covered using 10 pages of the excellent colour profile artwork which is a key feature of this series. That is followed by the Model Showcase section, with 3 first-class model builds, 1 in 1/72 and 2 more in 1/35. The Modelling Product section sets out the various Panther kits available on the market, along with accessory sets that are all geared to those variants used in Italy. After the model elements, it returns to the real thing, and some very useful notes on Technical Details and Modifications that were carried out on the Panthers at different times, such as the use of stand-off armour panels on the engine deck and turret roof, and when zimmerit paste stopped being applied. Finally, a graphical structure chart showing the changing vehicle establishment of 1 Abteilung, Panzer-Regiment 4 in January & October 1944 and March 1945.
Another very nicely done TankCraft book, aimed primarily at modellers. The whole series, mixing the history, details of the real vehicles along with first class models, and accompanied by a good selection of archive images included throughout the book, this is another well worth adding to your reference shelf I think.
Thanks to Pen & Sword for the review copy.

Robin