Description:
The Russian T-34 was the most influential tank design of World War II, with its sloping armour, heavy hitting firepower and rapid mobility. It first saw combat in the summer of 1941, and its qualities soon set it apart from other medium tanks of the period. However, its battlefield superiority did not last long, and it was soon matched by German designs such as the Panther. Several models, designated by years, were produced between 1940 and 1943, featuring changes such as upgunning (model 1941) and redesigning the turret (model 1943). More T-34s were produced by the Allies than any other tank. The T-34-76 was produced until mid-1944, when it was replaced with the better armed T-34-85, the subject matter of a planned future Osprey Modelling title.
The modeling community is well served with several full kits and a plethora of aftermarket items to cater for the interest in the T-34/76, and it remains one of the most popular World War II Allied modeling topics with new kits being released. This title guides the reader through the basics of assembly and finishing, before progressing to more advanced modelling projects using conversion kits and extensive scratchbuilding. It covers both 1/35- and 1/76-scale versions of the T-34/76.Brief description: Jorge Alvear is of Chilean heritage, but grew up in the United States. A modeller from an early age, his interest was rekindled after picking up a hobby magazine from a local newsstand.
Review Quotes:
"The build articles... are superbly done with lots and lots of photographs. Not only are the various modifications shown, but much of each article is devoted to different types of weathering. The results are stunning to say the least. I could never hope to duplicate what they have done, but it isn't from their lack of instruction in this regard. Each technique is fully described so that those of you with talent will be able to follow along and obtain similar results. Yet another outstanding book in the series and one that I can highly recommend to you." --Scott Van Aken, modelingmadness.com
"Recommended. The latest in the consistently interesting Osprey Modelling series is a compilation of four articles by well-known modellers tackling a range of T-34-76 variants, including one recovered from a swamp after nearly 60 years. Coverage isn't limited to Red Army tanks either, with a colourful Italian-owned tank and a beute T-34 with improvised schurtzen." --David Maynard, Armorama (August 2006)