For the visually inspired, this is the perfect format. This volume is 40 pages of color renderings of six different Mig fighter versions, 15,17,19,21,23 and 29. Each type has one four-view layout to assist with camo patterns where applicable. The renderings are very well done with a slightly worn appearance to them. As the series title indicates, a small decal sheet is included with national markings for Polish, East German or Czechoslovakian Mig 15 or 17s in 1/72 or 1/48 scales. These have a very glossy appearance I’ve encountered with decals from Eastern European manufacturers before, so I tested them on a scrap part. You'll have to be very careful where you use these. Even with aggressive decal solvents, they didn’t want to settle into panel lines. They worked on a smooth surface and the film did not silver. For the money, I would have rather a decal sheet with a couple complete aircraft insignias including bort numbers.

A new, welcome release from prolific AMMO by Mig Jimenez, is this four-color acrylic paint set labelled for World War II Japanese Infantry. The paint comes in 17ml plastic bottles, complete with a stirring ball, in a clear plastic clamshell box. Also included is a color two-sided label with a very well painted World War II Japanese soldier with color callouts for the paints provided. While the paints can be procured individually, the four major colors are included (and most likely cheaper than buying them individually). The following paints are included:

The book is divided into eight chapters. The pictures are located throughout the chapters with many of them pertaining to the particular battle being discussed by the author. Except for the first chapter in which his birth and early career are touched upon, the rest of the chapters are dedicated to the battles in which he took part. A good explanation of the battle discussed is given on each of the chapters dedicated to the particular battle. In addition, maps of the battle are also provided.

The first chapter is divided describing his early career, and the beginning of the war against Russia. It ends with the description of the battles of Smolensk-Moscow and Stalingrad. In the second chapter the author describes the failure of the Soviet troops to achieve their assigned task to thrust deep into the German lines and cut their retreat routes. The Germans thus counter-attacked that defeated the Russians.

This set contains all the products required to recreate the texture of snow on any surface including terrain, vehicles, and buildings.

This product has been designed for easy use, particularly for beginners. With the products included in this set, you will be able to recreate recently fallen pure white snow to the distinctive slush and refreezing of the thaw. The unique formula ensures near identical real snow in any scale from 1/16th to 1/72nd, adding a stunning finish to your models, scenes and dioramas.

These products can be diluted with water to make them more fluid. Once dry, you can apply effects with oils and enamels over the snow effect to obtain extremely realistic results. Non-toxic.

Included in the box are:

Thanks to Casemate Publishing & IPMS/USA for the review copy!

The rapid Russian army takeover of Southeast Europe in 1944 is a seldom-covered topic, but its importance loomed huge for the Cold War and the fates of those countries to this very day. Kamen Nevenkin presents viewpoints of the events from German, Russian and the countries involved perspectives. This book shows the realities of war on the Southeastern Front, where nations changed allegiances, national boundaries were redrawn, and the Soviet expansion was inexorable. Numerous photographs show the conduct and aftermath of brutal battles, and are not for the faint-hearted. This book is an excellent primer on this little-known, forgotten theatre of WW2.