Reference, Wings and Wheels, In Detail Special No.5, Famo Sd.Kfz.9

WINGS & WHEELS PUBLICATIONS

In Detail Special No.5, Famo Sd.Kfz.9. By Frantisek Koran, Martin Valek, Miroslav Hraban, Vaclev Krcal & Ladislav Lacina. Soft covers, 8.75 x 9.75-inches, 72 pages. Contains 375 color photos. ISBN 978-80-86416-71-7.


The largest half-tracked vehicle type fielded by the German Wehrmacht during the Second World War was the schwere Zugkraftwagen 18-ton Sd.Kfz.9, commonly referred to as a Famo (after the manufacturer). This large and robust vehicle was used as the prime recovery vehicle by various armored units and it was also used to haul oversized loads such as super-heavy artillery. Two variations existed that mounted 6- and 10-ton cranes, respectively, while a small series was produced mounting the 8.8cm FlaK37. The vehicle saw wide service and has been the subject of kits by Tamiya in 1/35th-scale as well as by Revell of Germany and Trumpeter, both in 1/72nd-scale.


There are already a couple of excellent references to be found on this vehicle, notably Famo 18t from The Military Machine, by Stefan König, and Schwerer Zugkraftwagen 18 ton and Variants, Famo Bulle (Sd.Kfz.9), from Nuts & Bolts (Vol.12), by Dr. Nicolaus Hettler. The former book is basically an historic and technical treatment of the subject, while the latter title covers history and preserved examples, with a small modeling section. This latest offering from Wings and Wheels Publications is tailor-made for the modeler who wishes to super-detail his replica, since it provides detail images of a preserved late-production type; it also includes a modelers section.


The text provides a very brief run-down on the development of the Sd.Kfz.9, and includes technical specifications and production details. It provides a fine reference point for the interested modeler.


Of course, the main focus of the book is to provide high-quality, full-color images of the subject vehicle. This it does in excellent form, mainly by depicting a vehicle held in private hands in the Czech Republic. Photos created prior to and during the restoration process are presented along side images of the fully-restored vehicle in action and in repose. Overall views of the Famo show it towing a couple of different pieces of contemporary artillery, during a re-enactment. A second vehicle, held in Germany by the Wehrtechnische Studiensammlung, Koblenz is used to illustrate the engine, its accessories and its compartment. Detail photos provide extremely complete coverage of every bit of the vehicle, inside and out.


Captions, where used, are informative if brief. As usual for this publisher, much more in the way of captions could have been provided as there are entire pages with none at all. Photo reproduction is excellent, with clear and crisp images printed on glossy, coated paper stock. The detail photos, especially, are of a very useful size.


The modelers section contains a total of 65 photos. The first group of images covers the 1/35th-scale Tamiya kit (being transported on a Dragon Wagon!). The second section has the Tamiya kit hauling a Precision Models 17cm K18 gun. The final two builds feature the Revell 1/72nd-scale kit, with the first converted to a /1 with 6-ton Kran, and the second being the kit in its stock form. These are all very attractive models and will certainly provide some inspiration, especially regarding the somewhat unique nature of each replica. Unfortunately, no information of any real use is provided to the modeler concerning technique or building issues, while only three of the four modelers who built the kits are identified. A little more effort in with respect to this particular section would have made what is certainly a fine book into an excellent one.


Be that as it may, modelers who want detailed images from which to detail every nook and cranny of their Famo kit will do well to purchase this book. It will pay great dividends.


Highly recommended.


Frank V. Curly Stooge De Sisto


Wings and Wheels books are available from mail order and retail outlets. They can also be acquired direct through their web site at: www.wwpbooks.com.


Delete abwerhabwehr from email address.


Visit frankdesisto.com.