4 replies to this topic

[James Thompson]

I was wondering what color people are painting IDF vehicles? I saw that Vallejo has IDF Gray but for 1/285th model's wont that be too dark? I also don't want to mix paint so something close.

 

Thanks

Jim 

[Kenny Noe]

Jim,

 

 

Great topic

 

There is a difference between ground and air units and their colors.  This is my 0.02¢ on the ground vehicles.

 

The research I've read of the AIW wars lent a very interesting insight into IDF ground vehicle colors.  This has to do with more environmental factors that influence the color scheme.  Sand and sun exposure have more factors into the eventual color of a given vehicle. The books (primary modeling) detail that the sand in these deserts are very fine in consistency, almost like powder. Sand in different parts of the Negev and Sinai has different color tones and of course gets on/into EVERYTHING!!.  Sun light even after a few days exposure tends to start it's natural bleaching of everything.  Both the Negev and Sinai are subtropical.  The strength and nearly vertical overhead position of the sun can concentrate UV rays to dish more punishing effects.

 

One (of many) concerns of Tal and the rest of the IDF Armored savants was the .  The gas (petrol) engine filters (air and oil) had to be cleaned practically every few ruining hours to keep the vehicles running.  This high maintenance item and others (fuel consumption) was a factor in the upgrade of IDF Centurions and M-48 to diesel engines.  Diesels could take more punishment (filters didn't require cleaning as often) and had better fuel efficiency (this meant longer range).

 

IDF during the 1948 and 1956 wars things were desperate and additional challenges like building a military to face threats that could cross borders at any minute.  So color schemes were low on the list.  During these early wars the primary color used was the initial olive drab green that originated with the vehicle.  However, once those vehicles were in the field, primary the Negev or Sinai (eventually) deserts those greens turned into what is now called by some (most?) Sinai Yellow / Grey.  

 

So, back to the question:

I've used a variety of tans / sands / OD greens / mix of all on various vehicles.  So most of my units are a kind of "mutt" mash of colors.

 

1948 and 1956 Wars

I've used the base OD Green with liberal dry brushing of light grey / sand / tan colors

 

1967

I've used Tamiya Dark Sand with liberal dry brushing of light grey / sand / tan colors

 

1973

Not gotten that far at the moment.  

 

 

 

However, a quick Google search has found a couple very interesting items  One from AK-Interactive paints and the other from Vallejo

 

AK-Interactive

https://ak-interacti...idf-afv-colors/

 

Vallejo - IDF Colors Acrylic Paint Set

https://acrylicosval...f-colors-71210/

 

I will have to look into these and try them out.

 

Bottom line, I don't think you can really go wrong with shades or tones of colors.  And if you get a game "lawyer" who wants to point out color mismatch details, blame the environment!!  LOL

 

Hope this helps.

[James Thompson]

Thanks Kenny,

 

It does help and kind of what I was thinking. On a off topic question. I was wondering if you have a map/ideas and size for terrain on the Dothan Valley scenario you did the OOB for? I was planning on 4x6 with low ridges on each side and covered with scrub. 

 

 Thanks

Jim

[Kenny Noe]

Jim,

 

Unfortunately, I do not at this time.  I'm working on Mein Panzer Scenario books for publication.  My hope is that these can be published quicker than a databook and cover many periods.

 

When I ran Dothan Valley, I used a 10 x 6 table.  The valley part ran down the 10 ft length.  I had a 2 ft deployment / entrance zone at the beginning of the valley and a 2 ft area at the exit of the valley.  So the valley part was only 6ft, but had plenty of cover places for ambushes and defensive positions.
 

The game is a little tricky because if the Jordanian player ignores the retreat order, they can sit at the opening of the valley and turkeyshoot the Israeli's.  Not a fun game. 

 

So I imposed a scenario rule, the Jordanian player had to use their bonus move (retreat) for the first two turns and the third turn double move (retreat).  Once they got out of the valley they could setup however they wanted.  Made for a more historic game although if I recall the Israeli's still lost.  <grin>

 

Thanks

[James Thompson]

Thanks!