D.A.K. Deutches Afrika Korps Book

[Mike]

D.A.K. Deutches Afrika Korps Book

AK Interactive/Accion Press (ISBN: 978-84-95464-74-3)

Modelling the vehicles, figures and diorama potential of the DAK in North Africa during WWII is a popular subject, and this book covers just this, using a number of modelling projects to instruct the modeller on the best techniques to use to portray the dusty, sun bleached look of both man and vehicles in this harsh environment.

The book is laid out into chapters with a short introduction on the surprisingly varied camo schemes that were tried during this period, and then moves onto the set-piece builds that gradually introduce the techniques. The first build is a Panzer II ausf F on a small base, with a pair of figures, which shows us how to load down the exterior with realistic looking stowage, introduces mapping for fading, and various techniques to show wear, before talking use through a simple base on which to display the finished article.

Next is a heavily worn and battered Diana, a field gun mounted on the Sd.Kfz 6 half-track chassis. The hairspray technique is introduced, and shows how multiple applications can give a layered effect that would be impossible to achieve any other way. Sponge chipping and oil streaks are also covered, as are painting realistic tracks, resulting in a truly stunning worn paint job.

A Marder II is next in a small urban diorama setting, concentrating on producing a realistic interior to your DAK vehicles, and dealing with the figures that are placed in the diorama. The last subject is a tour de force, and is a diorama of a staff car and truck mounted Flak gun outside some kind of HQ building, with The Desert Fox, Rommel himself chatting with the crew. As well as dealing with the two vehicles, it also covers the design and build of the diorama setting, which should be invaluable to all budding diorama builders, covering the groundwork, buildings and vegetation, and then moving onto the figures, with some handy step-by-step guides on the painting techniques, even of the dog lounging on the vehicle’s flatbed.

Each section has a comprehensive gallery section after it, and with every page having some colour on it, it represents very good value, running to 88 pages in all. Photography is excellent of course, and the text reads well. I think this book has been translated from the modellers’ native languages, although I can’t say for sure, but unlike some books in the past that have been translated, it isn’t as immediately obvious to the native English speaker.

Conclusion

A great read for the DAK enthusiast and general AFV modeller alike, and a good source of tips on how to build, detail, paint and weather your desert vehicles. There is a fair quantity of text, which will keep you busy for a while, and the pictures will be an ongoing source of entertainment both for their quality, and the richness of the detail of the modelling subjects covered.

Highly recommended.

Review sample courtesy of