Bristol Bulldog & Gloster Gauntlet

This latest book from Mushroom Model Publications ( MMD) covers two of the RAF’s classic between-the-wars biplane fighters, the Bulldog and Gauntlet. It is in MMP’s usual 6 ½” x 9 ¼” soft-cover format.

Each month, at least one, sometimes two of books in the series is released. Mushroom Model Publications also publishes a magazine for modelers called Mushroom Model Magazine.

The technical development of these 2 aircraft is described and illustrated, and their service with the RAF and other air forces is covered. There is particular emphasis on colors and markings. Both types of aircraft wore very colorful pre-war RAF squadron markings, and both graduated to somber wartime camouflage. They even saw active WWII service despite their obsolescence.

Finish bulldog pilots claimed 6 victories, and 2 Italian aircraft were downed by Gauntlets of the 430 Flight in East Africa.

The book is 144 pages long. To my knowledge, this is the most pages seen to date in one of MMP’s aircraft books. It is illustrated with 61 period black and white photos. There are 75 full color photos of three surviving airframes: two Bulldogs and one Gauntlet that are in museums. The latter also seen in flight. There are 44 black and white 1/72 nd scale line drawings of the aircraft in profile and an additional 15 as 2-view drawings. There are (counting the back cover) 25 full color side profiles paintings, 6 more of these as 3-views, and 16 color drawings of upper wing squadron markings. Included, also, are 7 information charts, a bibliography and 13 illustrations out of tech manuals.

The author, Alex Crawford, previously wrote the “Gloster Gladiator” book for MMP, this was one their best selling books ever.

This new book will appeal to modelers, aircraft enthusiasts, and students of 30’s and 40’s aircraft and operations. An invaluable addition to the shelves of RAF and small air forces enthusiasts.

I want to thank Dr. Roger M. Wallsgrove, Editor-in-Chief of MMP for this review copy.