Modelling the
IS Heavy Tank

Review by Terry Ashley

The seven models in the book are based on the Dragon JSU-152 (kit 6803) and JS-2 (Kit 6012), the Trumpeter JS-2M (kit 00316), two on the Tamiya JS-3 (kit 35211) plus the inclusion of various resin updates sets, etched detail sets with track sets, metal barrels plus numerous scratch built items and there are also two 1/72 JS-2 kits using the Fujimi kits SWA-30 and SWA-32.

Each article has many colour photos of the models during construction showing clearly the inclusion of the aftermarket detail sets as well as the many scratch built items in what is basically a step by step visual guide to the building process.
Each photo has a caption explaining what is happening in the photos as well as detailed text describing the complete building and painting process.

The painting of the finished models follows the same formula with progress pics showing the basic painting and the weathering process and as all the models are in basic overall green the emphasis is on the application of the weathering to add a different finish.

The models are divided into three ‘classes’ or skill levels of ‘Intermediate’, ‘Advanced’ and ‘Master’ that will offer something for all modellers with the work on each ranging from the exterior detailing for the ‘Intermediate’ to the inclusion of interior details in the ‘Advanced’ and full conversions and scratch building in the ‘Master’ class that will not only provide a guide to building the models but give you something to tackle to improve your skills.

The seven models are:

• Building the ISU-152 (1/35) Pages 7 to 17
  Based on the Dragon ISU-152 kit #6803
  Skill level; Intermediate
  Detail sets used include CMK 152mm ML-20 replacement barrel and Eduard Express masks.
  The model has exterior detailed added with the sets used plus items from wire and card but the article mainly concentrates on the painting and weathering process.
• Building the IS-2 (1/35) Pages 18 to 31
  Based on the Dragon JS-2 kit #6012
  Skill level; Master
  Detail sets used include Maquette V-2 engine (#35024), Jaguar resin interior set 63501, ModelKasten SK-14 tracks, ABER and Eduard etched detail, Jordi Rubio metal barrel scratch built items.
  The model has a detailed exterior as well as full interior added using the Jaguar interior, Maquette engine plus additional scratch building and detailing and is displayed on a small scenic base depicting a partially destroyed vehicle.
• Building the IS-3M (1/35) Pages 32 to 42
  Based on the Trumpeter JS-3M kit #00316
  Skill level; Advanced
  Detail sets used include Armour Track Models workable tracks plus additional detailing with plastic card and strip.
  The model has extensive detailing of the exterior and also highlights the painting and weathering process.
• Building the IS-3 (1/35) Pages 43 to 55
  Based on the Tamiya JS-3 kit #35211
  Skill level; Master
  Detail sets used include Maquette V-2 engine (#35024), Friulmodel ALT-54 tracks, ABER etched detail set, Jordi Rubio metal barrel plus scratch built items.
  The model features extensive reworking of the engine deck and side storage compartments as well as numerous other details and also describes the painting and weathering process.
• Building the ISU-152 SP (1/35) Pages 56 to 66
  Based on the Tamiya JS-3 kit #35211
  Skill level; Advanced
  Detail sets used include Cromwell Models ISU-152 resin conversion set, Friulmodel ALT-34 IS-3 tracks, Aber etched parts and additional detail items.
  The model is an extensive conversion using the large Cromwell Models ISU-152 upper hull on the Tamiya lower hull and suspension and also describes the painting and weathering process.
• Building the IS-2 (1/72) Pages 67 to 77
  Based on the Fujimi JS-2 kit #SWA-30 and JS-2M kit #SWA-32
  Skill level; Advanced/Intermediate
  The two models are built using additional detailing from various sized wire, Evergreen styrene strip and additional detail items. There are the photos of the details added as well as the painting and weathering process and show what can be done in this small scale to produce well detailed models.

Following the chapters on the model building are lists of available printed references and websites and of all available kits and accessories for the kits plus and a chart with colour chips of the colours used on the various models.

Conclusion:
This book continues the trend of previous Modelling Manuals with a wealth of information and clear photos to illustrate the text and will provide many useful tips and modelling ideas that can easily be used on other models as well as those featured.

Highly recommended.

Page created 4 July 2004