Combat History of Sturmpanzer-Abteilung 217 Reviews

4.8 Rating 95 Reviews

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“Well written - loads of great photos”

Helpful Report

Posted 4 years ago

“This is a history of an unusual unit, one of only four using the Sturmpanzer IV. It follows it from its formation to its eventual dissolution in the final days of the war. The book describes in detail the battles which the battalion fought in allowing you to see the to-and-fro of attack and counter-attack often on an hourly basis. There are plenty of photographs but this is not primarily a picture book. As usual Felipe Rodna’s paintings are beautiful and paired with the photographs they are taken from really bring the vehicles shown to life. I did not quite enjoy this book as much as I might have. The battalion’s own records are mostly missing so it is frequently seen from the perspective of Allied records or the infantry units it was supporting. It is often difficult to tell if it, or the StuG units it operated with, were involved in any particular combat. But the information available is what it is and so this is unavoidable. I liked the way dates are highlighted so following the chronology of the actions is easy, but the maps lack scales and for me did not show unit locations and front lines frequently enough. The Sturmpanzer IV is not a well known vehicle and the 50 page section on its design, variants, and detailed interior and exterior photographs of surviving vehicles is very welcome. Physically the book is very well produced. Photographs are printed clearly and have informative captions. A sign of the attention to detail is the inclusion of a bookmark with a slice of one of Rodna’s painting on it – a nice touch. Overall I enjoyed reading this book. It provides a detailed and informative look at an unusual unit operating a comparatively rare vehicle. A worthy addition to any armour enthusiast’s bookshelf.”

1 Helpful Report

Posted 4 years ago

“Another great volume, well written with numerous previously unpublished photographs.”

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Posted 4 years ago

“Fantastic book, great reference copy on a little known unit.”

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Posted 4 years ago

“Great book but doesn't cover deeply the Normandy period. I well understand that it is hard to do the job !”

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Posted 4 years ago

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Posted 4 years ago

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Posted 4 years ago

Sébastien G

Verified Reviewer

“Have a look on my review here: https://3945km.com/2020/04/04/combat-history-of-sturmpanzer-abteilung-217-panzerwrecks-2020/”

Helpful Report

Posted 4 years ago