Casemate Kawasaki Ki-61 Hien & K-100. Monograph No.58

[Shar2]

Kawasaki Ki-61 Hien & K-100

Kagero Monographs No 58

The history of these aircraft has been told in the reviews of the kits that we’ve been lucky enough to have reviewed here on BM, The Ki-61 HERE and the Ki-100 HERE so it seems a little churlish to repeat them. What this does show however, is the fact that there are kits readily available of these aircraft. This book will certainly be of great help in the detailing and painting of these kits. Within the covers, one hundred and eight pages not only cover the full history of these aircraft but the text is accompanied by the superb period photographs, which, even thought they are all monochrome that accompanying notes explain where they were taken, the aircraft and unit and an educated guess at the colours of the camouflage. Of particular interest are the photographs of the construction methods, production line, and engine installation. There are also plenty of photographs of captured machines in various states of disrepair which could help produce some interesting dioramas. What is also interesting is the variation of colour schemes used, and there appear to be quite a few, oh, and the way the paint does indeed seem to flake off as can be seen on some beautifully built models here on BM. The final twenty seven pages contain some very well produced line drawings, profiles and colour plates that are full of additional information and detail. Included with the book are two pullout posters with the plans of all three variants in 1:32 scale. These are great and would look good framed, although you’ll lose the Ki-100-II variant as it’s printed on the back of the Ki-100-1.

Conclusion
The series of monographs from Kagero are just superb. Not only do you get the history of this very interesting type, right the way from prototype to final variant, but there is also information on the combat use, unit markings and camouflage. The plans, drawings and colour profiles are a real boon to the modeller in helping them get the most out their kits. Very highly recommended.

Review sample courtesy of

[HOUSTON]

Good looking cover just makes you want to own it.

Nice review ... Books are MY thing so heck this is awesome

Thanks