There are a few semi-mythical wargamers reference books, the Funcken uniform guides, Jentzs 'Panzertruppen' Volumes 1 & 2, Chamberlain and Doyle etc. , but one I never thought I'd acquire was "Uniforms of the World" by Knotel, Knotel and Sieg.
Anyway, thanks to a pointer from John A, this thudded onto my doormat recently, all 483 pages of it. A comprehensive uniform guide for 50 countries and as many again of German and Italian states covering over 200 years. Apparently eBay is awash with these at very affordable prices, I really can't think why as it is such a great book.
It does show its age a bit, it was first published in 1896 and this is the 1956 edition, revised in 1967, which goes up to uniforms of 1937 so early/pre WW2. It reminds me very much of some other 1970s/80s uniform guides in that it has line illustrations and endless lists of regimental uniform distinctions. I suppose it isn't exactly packed with eye candy, but it is packed with very useful information, all in one place.
So, if you really want to know about Serbian Army uniforms of the 1890s (who doesn't!) , or the cuff lace colour for Anhalt Jagers in 1848, then this is the book for you.
I imagine it has some errors and omissions, but it is good enough for the sorts of things I am likely to need it for and it is pretty comprehensive (the German States alone cover 120 pages.). Coupled with the various colour plate guides I already have, it is plenty to cover the specific regimental variations.
Good find! Checking eBay in the States, the book is, indeed, cheap.
ReplyDeleteIt is well worth picking up if you have the shelf space. I suspect this style of book has gone out of fashion, but I was surprised how many seemed to be available.
DeleteAs someone who is at best a very reluctant painter it is a tome I am pleased to have in then collection - even if it does not get used much! A great resource for historical or imagi-nations.
ReplyDeleteAll the best,
DC
It is just nice to have something like that in stock. The Internet is fine fir generalitirs but sometimes you want something specific.
DeleteThat a great purchase! Over the years, I’ve found my copy to be very useful.
ReplyDeleteAll the best,
Bob
Thanks Bob, I certainly hope it will be useful. Years ago I bought a much slimmer tome in a similar style on the armies of the Franco Prussian War, and it has been endlessly useful.
DeleteI've seen this book: very useful - or would be if I owned a copy. But I found it useful in my early war gaming days.
ReplyDeleteYes, I think these sorts of this gs are more useful when starting out or commencing a new period. It was fun to flick through though.
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