Anyone familiar with Accion Press's publications such as "EuroModelismo", "Figuras", and "Aplicado" will quickly recognize their new bi-monthly magazine as one of quality. Managing publisher, Rodrigo Hernandez Cabos is an accomplished modeler and author who brings his 40 year modeling career into the making of this fine publication. While his name may not ring any bells for all, his authorings and co-authorings may, such as Osprey Publishing Company's M4 Sherman, Panzerkampfwagen III (Modeling Manual, 15), and Modeling Soft-Skinned Military Vehicles (Modeling Manuals 11), to name just a few.
A Magazine?
This is certainly not "like" a magazine and more like a booklet. Most magazines are made of thin paper pages loaded with advertisements throughout with the articles suffering from so-so quality pictures. Armor Models is far from this. The 64 pages are of thick paper, the articles are of good length, the pictures are crisp and focused, and only six pages are for ads - all of which is in full color.
Contents
As I would have expected, the contents lean toward German subjects. This is not a problem for most, but for modelers like I who prefer Allied themes, it is leitmotiv.
Without getting into the details of each chosen subject's build, I will say that each does a terrific job of explaining what kits were used, the PE set(s), accessories, figure(s) paints, and references that went into each model. One such build includes actual war time and restored vehicle photos.
The techniques used with the addition of accompanying photos as the build progresses as a sort of follow-along, is well done.
At the back of the mag, is a nice section titled "Modeling Seminars" which, in this issue covers the care of air compessors. It is stated that this section will continue with "further study on tools and techniques used in model making".
Another notice is the lack (so far) of modern vehicles covered. It is important to keep in mind that information available on this publication promises to cover all eras!
Conclusion
With only one issue released, it's difficult to judge exactly where this new magazine will head. But, as first impressions go, this new entry into the scale modeling magazine world will have no problem competing.
SUMMARY
This is a review of a magazine focused on Armor. Accion Press focuses not on the 1:1 scale version, but on the model versions.
About Ken Fortier (Kencelot) FROM: FLORIDA, UNITED STATES
Like many, I developed an interest in building models when I was around 8 years young. I remember my mother keeping my interest in them by joining a "model a month" club back in the mid 70s. Things like the Lunar Lander, and a Braniff International 747 were some of the kits I'd build that came in th...
