BISON DECALS
BD-35103, Panzers in the Bocage (1). 1/35th-scale water-slide decals for 12 vehicles, plus alternates, with instructions.
In concert with the upcoming book from Firefly Publications, 'Under the Gun; Panzers in the Bocage', Bison has recently released this first of two sets of markings for German tanks and AFVs as seen in Normandy during the epic battles of 1944. Most of the major Heer and Waffen-SS units are represented, as are some less usual formations, in particular those that fielded the B.IV demolition tank or the Tiger II heavy tank. Representative units and AFVs are as follows:
Pz.Kpfw.IV Ausf.H, 2.Pz.Div.
Pz.Kpfw.IV Ausf.H, 2.Pz.Div.
Pz.Kpfw.IV Ausf.H, 21.Pz.Div.
Pz.Kpfw.IV Ausf.H, 21.Pz.Div.
Panther Ausf.A, 2.Pz.Div.
Panther Ausf.A, 2.Pz.Div.
Panther Ausf.A, 1.SS-Pz.Div, with alternate markings.
Panther Ausf.A, 9.SS-Pz.Div.
Sd.Kfz.251/9 Ausf.D, 2.Pz.Div.
StuG.III Ausf.G, Pz.Abt.301 (Fkl), with alternate markings.
StuG.III Ausf.G, Pz.Abt 315 (Fkl).
Tiger II, Pz.Abt 316 (Fkl).
The markings include the usual variety of tactical numbers, Balkenkreuz national insignia, unit markings, shipping data plates, registration plates, and the occasional name. The camouflage schemes are all based on Dunkelgelb as a base with Rotbraun and/or Olivgrün disruptive patterns. For full-color details see here:
http://www.angelfire.com/pro/bison/35103.html
The designs are printed in Russia by Begemot. Their quality has been, and continues to be, excellent. Edges are crisp, colors are well-saturated, and registration is extremely good. Carrier film is thin, matte and cropped close to the designs edges. The instructions cover one side of two 8 x 11.5-inch sheets of paper and are in monotone. The modeler is given a web address (see above) to down-load and print a color version, but what is supplied is more than adequate to the task. In addition to placement and color notes, small details unique to the individual tank, such as Zimmerit patterns are called out where necessary. In order to help with design placement, a map is given, which cross-references the designs with an alpha-numeric call-out. An irregularity was noted in the instructions, however. All the Panthers are designated as being Ausf.As, but most are drawn as Ausf.Gs. The modeler will have to be careful and do some extra research prior to use. This process can be eased if the book upon which the markings are based, is purchased as a one-stop reference source.
The designs are printed in Russia by Begemot. Their quality has been, and continues to be, excellent. Edges are crisp, colors are well-saturated, and registration is extremely good. Carrier film is thin, matte and cropped close to the designs edges. The instructions cover one side of two 8 x 11.5-inch sheets of paper and are in monotone. The modeler is given a web address (see above) to down-load and print a color version, but what is supplied is more than adequate to the task. In addition to placement and color notes, small details unique to the individual tank, such as stowage or track types are also noted. In order to help with design placement, a map is given, which cross-references the designs with an alpha-numeric call-out.
Since the battles in Normandy as well as the German AFVs which fought there continue to interest both modelers and kit manufacturers, it can be safe to assume that this decal sheet could prove to be quite useful. Paired with the new book from Firefly, modelers should have all they need to construct an accurately painted and marked AFV.
Highly recommended.
Frank V. De Sisto
Bison products are available at retail and mail order shops. For world-wide points of purchase see their web-site at: www.angelfire.com/pro/bison.
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