by Steve Backer. Revised by Les Brown.
Softcover (8.2×11.7 inches). 64 pages. 2026 revised version of 2007 book.
This volume in the excellent ShipCraft series gets an update with new model kits and accessories released since 2007 as well as featuring built versions of these new models in the Mastermodelers’ Showcase.
Ships covered are HMS Renown, HMS Repulse, and HMS Hood. Battlecruisers were the darlings of the British navy until Jutland, when something went wrong with their bloody ships. Back to the drawing board was the reaction. In the case of the HMS Hood, it meant stripping her down and adding armor so she might be considered the first fast battleship. Design and tech specs (p1 to p16) receive ample attention. Includes 21 black and white photos.
Later on, Appearance and Modifications (p49-58) discusses overhauls and upgrades each ship received, including different AA guns, removal of cranes, and even new engines and armor. Includes 24 black and white photos.
Camouflage schemes (p45 to p48) shows the different paint jobs the ships sported over the years. Includes 11 color profile and overhead illustrations plus nine color aircraft (three each of Walrus, Mitsubishi G3M, and Mitsubishi G4M) illustrations.
Model Products (p17-31) provide information about plastic model kits and upgrade kits (usually photo-etched), including one card model kit. More than a listing, it includes commentary on various facets of model kit fortes and foibles. Includes 43 color product photos and 18 color photos of box art.
Next: The masters of model building showcase their skills in Mastermodelers’ Showcase (p32 to p44). Five 1:700 scale models, two 1:350 scale models, one 1:600 scale model, and one 1:200 scale model are featured in 46 color photos — both the entire model and close-up details.
Ship plans (p59 to p63) offer black and white drawings (two profile and one overhead), but no scale is indicated. Three each of 1936 HMS Repulse, 1941 HMS Repulse, 1942 HMS Renown, 1944 HMS Renown, and 1941 HMS Hood.
Finally a Reference (p64) page lists books, plans, and websites used to research the book.
A couple points: Only one of the smaller scale wargame size models, the Navis/Neptune 1:1250 scale model, are included. The GHQ 1:2400 scale models are not included. Also, one of the Mastermodelers’ Showcase photos — White Ensign Models 1:700 model — show crew members on deck, but no crew are listed in the Model Products pages. There is a mention of a discontinued WEM kit elsewhere.
It’s another triumph for the ShipCraft series, but I would expect no less as this volume is a revised version. For those building ship models of any scale, here’s your dream series. Great photos, camouflage history, and enough ship history to fire up your naval warfare interest make this a marvelous resource.
Enjoyed it.
— Reviewed by Russ Lockwood
