Metallic finishes always have been challenging for most modelers; and the AK Learning series (Metallics Volume 1 & 2) become almost an at-home course in de-mystifying the challenge. These books start with what makes a metal look the way it does, then shows you the differences in metal shades, colors and how to replicate them for many different model types. You take pieces of scrap plastic (or parts) to practice on until you get comfortable with the techniques. Whatever you build: aircraft, cars, figures, science fiction, etc. you WILL have to duplicate a metal finish at some point (shiny, dull, pitted, burned, etc.) and these books are worth the investment to learn to do them right.