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by Ben Skipper.
Softcover (8.3×11.7 inches). 96 pages. 2024.
The original C-130 design came about after the Korean War with the first flight in 1955. Over 130 versions and variants were made and one or another is still being built today (p1).
It seems that all 130+ models are covered, or at least mentioned, in this book. A lot of the historical text (p1 to p54) covers the wide array of technical system changes for modernization or specialty versions. Admittedly, I can’t say I read every word, but the overviews should give you a starting point if you need more details.
The next section (p55 to p62) provides 24 color profiles of camouflage schemes of various countries’ C-130s. The final section (p63 to p96) covers plastic models and modeling, including some aftermarket products to up the game of what comes in any given box. There isn’t much text here, just photos, especially with the in-progress work on three 1/72 scale models: Italeri C-130J C5, Zvezda C-130J-30, and Zvezda C-130J. These are probably appreciated more by experienced modelers than by those just getting into plastic model building. You can figure out some techniques, but the lack of text limits what a novice can learn.
The book contains 25 black and white photos, four black and white illustrations, and 98 color photos in the history section. The modeling section contains 123 color photos and four color illustrations.
Another fine volume in the FlightCraft series.
Enjoyed it.
— Reviewed by Russ Lockwood
