USN photographic reference books

[bengtsson]

What would be some of the better reference books on USN World War two era warships that offer the most well reproduced photographs. I am interested in books that present larger and higher quality photographic references to all the various classes of USN WWII ships. The kind most favoured by model builders. This must be the place to ask for members opinons on which books are most worth the money.

Bob B.

[Cliffy B]

Friedman's Illustrated Design History series is full of good high-res photos. Many are photos taken by the various shipyards while ships were undergoing refits. Those are wonderful for seeing all the little details and what not. The series covers, Carriers, Battleships, Cruisers, Destroyers, Amphibs, and Patrol Craft. Root around on the "Us Naval Institute Press" website and you can find them and others that will help you. Other than that, I'm not really sure of any more "general" books. Do you have any specific ship types/classes in mind?

[Russ2146]

Norman Friedman's books are good, as are Robert F. Sumrall's. Check on Amazon.
You could also get some ideas on http://www.usni.org/store/index.asp?DEPARTMENT_ID=46 but check for those titles on Amazon too.

Check for books on the Model Warship's front page advertisers and look for reviews.

I have found Floating Drydock's e-books to be useful and as matter of fact he has a pretty good book listing at http://www.floatingdrydock.com/books.html
He also lists Ray Bean's CD's, which get good reviews, at http://www.floatingdrydock.com/books.html.

[Rick E Davis]

Classic Warships (a sponsor on the main page) has Profile type books dedicated to single warships or groups/classes of ships. Many topics are out of print, but can be found in stock by some dealers or in the second-hand market ... try vendor rooms at model shows.