O/T Books about surface warships | Forums

[nvrsummer2]

Just went and visited the Iowa. I gotta say it was pretty cool. The thickness of the armor in some places is just mind boggling. They didnt have much of the ship open yet. But that just means ill have to go back, multiple times!!!!

Can anyone recommend some good books about her? Im looking for info about all the different parts, systems, etc of the ship during WW2. I like her better with the Kingfisher catapults on her stern.

Id also like to see some really detailed books about WW2 warships in general. Any recommendations?

[MWolfe1963]

I usually find the best books in the museum book shop, I assume it wasn't open? Anyway, only book I have is this...http://www.amazon.com/Iowa-Class-Bat.../dp/089747628X.

Seems "on deck" was a series, but a good book. Wern will know some good ones.

[nvrsummer2]

I was surprised at how little they had. They have a nice gift shop and there were some good books. But nothing with the detail I am looking for. Id like to see operational history, stories from sailors about engagements. Also, details about the layout of every part of the ship.

Id like to see something about other ships too. Thanks for the links, ill look into them.

I did find this: http://www.amazon.com/Iowa-Class-Bat.../dp/0870212982

[WernherVonTrapp]

Aside from the Yamato and Musashi, which were more of anomalous monstrosities than Battleships (IMO), the Iowa Class battleships were the most powerful battleships ever afloat. But, then again, you probably already know that. I have a number of books about WWII ships, though not as many as you might think. Additionally, my books are old and probably out of print right now. Amazon has a myriad of great books on the subject. For starters, I suggest this book:
US Fast Battleships 1938-91: The Iowa Class
http://www.amazon.com/US-Fast-Battle...orld+war+two#_

It's a lot lighter on the wallet and you can actually preview the book by clicking on it's picture.

[nvrsummer2]

Thanks for the input everyone. Found some good ones to buy. Ill post them here when I get them.

Also, can anyone recommend some good websites for surface ww2 warships? With a good community of message boards? Much like here but for surface fleets.