GHQ Models Forums

Got my first batch of WWII ships and from reading earlier posts it sounds like different nations had a different shades of grey they used. I'm using Vallejo paints and what are the best colors they have for the following nationalities?


America

Japan

Germany

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

PS.. used a couple approaches mentioned on this thread on bases and the first trial run really look good so thanks everyone for sharing your ideas and pics.

Not only did different countries use different shades of grey, but the shade of grey used by a given country will differ over time and from one ship to another.

To be totally accurate, you must specify a given ship at a given time. If you have any specific ships in mind, I can try to provide answers (although I am away from most of my references right now).

Having said that, most countries tried to establish some standards. For a starter, try Wikipedia article on military camouflage. A good web site to start is www.shipcamouflage.com. After that, there are numerous specialty books and articles on the topic.

When actually selecting your colors, remember the scale lighting effect. The smaller the scale (and 1/2400 is a pretty small scale), the lighter the color must be to give the proper appearance. If you use a medium grey on a Micronaut ship, it will wind up looking almost black.

Don S.