Softskins book

[fsn]

Gentlemen of the Forum,

Having reconciled myself to several weeks of research, I am trying to address my main area of weakness in WWII knowledge. I think I could identify most tanks and AFVs of WWII, I'm pretty good on artillery and aircraft. I can tell the difference between a destroyer and a submarine, but I am very poor on identifying softskins. More to the point, I'm never quite sure what they were used for.

Could anyone suggest a reasonably priced volume that identifies the main types of softskin and their usage?

Thank you Gentlemen. 

[petercooman]

Never read it before, but a quick google search gives this:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Observers-Fighting-Vehicles-Directory-World/dp/0723214697

"An enlarged and revised edition of the first ever reference work dealing with military motor vehicles of all kinds which were used by the Allied and Axis powers in the Second World War. The emphasis is on the soft-skin vehicles which have never received any serious cover. The vast number of transport, special purpose and general equipment vehicles without which armies could not possibly operate, has now been given proper treatment. "

Seems to be what you need 

[Ithoriel]

Personally I tend to just rummage the interwebs for that sort of info these days.

However, if you can find a copy (without breaking the bank) "Observer's Fighting Vehicles Directory: World War II" is pretty comprehensive and covers softskins of the Allied and Axis Powers. Your local library (if you still have one that's open!!) should be able to get it for you on Inter Library Loan if you can't find a copy to buy.

[Ithoriel]

Ooh! Snap! 

Eeek! £170 - I think mine cost me less than a fiver From a little second-hand bookshop in Hay-on-Wye. Though that was mumble mumble years ago

[petercooman]

EEuuuuhm Ithoriel, the link i put in to amazon in the first answer shows up 18£ 

[Ithoriel]

Didn't go to Amazon direct, used a comparison site and got

Amazon Price     Hardcover     New     £171.60   

£5.42 (Used) from Amazon now I go directly there - rather more reasonable

[fsn]

Thank you, good sirs.

I've ordered the £5.42 version.

[Steve J]

An excellent choice that I found really useful.

[howayman]

But . . . but is the £171 one not better? 

[Fenton]

You dont need a book you need this

http://youtu.be/ukuIYjHYOUQ

[Hertsblue]

The World Encyclopedia of Military Vehicles edited by Pat Ware published by Hermes House.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/world-Encyclopedia-Military-Vehicles/dp/0754820521

A4 softback of 256 pages covering 100 years of military vehicles. I bought it remaindered for £5 at a local bookshop.