Allied - Axis Volume 32 Book Review

By Michael Benolkin

Review

Ampersand Publishing is well-known for its Allied-Axis series which compile period photography of different subjects to provide the historian and modeler alike with great materials not seen before in other titles. This issue focuses on two topics: the StuG in German and Finnish service during the battles to repel Soviet incursions into Finland during World War 2; and an in-depth look at the M20 Diamond-T tank transporter.

The first 50 pages look at the M20 and provide some interesting insight into why the vehicle was designed as a truck and trailer versus a tractor-trailer like the M26 Dragon Wagon. The vehicle was originally designed for British requirements, but the article looks at the M20 in US service. There are numerous full-page period photographs illustrating the details in both truck and trailer as well as looking at the variety of loads including the M3, M4, M5, M7, and more.

The remaining pages also provide excellent photo coverage of the Finnish and German StuGs including some photos taken after a battle with Soviet T-34s. These photos provide some interesting looks at the modifications made to the German StuGs including supplemental log side armor as well as spare track stowage on the sides of the lower hull also doubling as supplemental armor. These photos will inspire the armor modeler to transform their favorite Sturmgeschutz kit (and variant) to incorporate the details illustrated here as well as inspire placement of that StuG into a diorama or vignette based on these great photos. This title has you covered from start to Finnish!

Definitely recommended!

My sincere thanks to Ampersand Group for this review sample!