Hobbies, Games & Quizzes Books

All professional engineers have a little book in which they jot down those notes of fact, figures and formulae which they feel that they are likely to need on future occasions. It is always more convenient to look up one's own records than to wade through a lot of associated, but irrelevant material, especially as this may mean a trip to the reference library. Over a period of years, the contents of such notebooks grow to cover a wealth of vital information, and the time saved can be considerable. During his professional life, Tubal Cain filled three such books and, as a lifelong engineer, he is in a unique position to select (and add to) the material most useful to the amateur engineer. Model Engineer's Handbook comprises a compilation of those tables, facts, procedures and data which the author himself found valuable in his model engineering activities and it provides a real mine of information to which you will return again and again. Not the least of its attributes is the use, where appropriate, of data and calculations in both Imperial and SI units, so that all generations of model engineers can feel at home. In this third edition, all the existing data has been updated or re-arranged for greater clarity and much new matter has been added to provide an even more comprehensive book, indispensable to the expert and beginner alike.

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The age old pastime of kite flying has recently experienced a dramatic increase in popularity owing to the introduction of bold new designs and materials for improved standards of efficiency. In this completely revised and updated edition of one of the best books ever written on the hobby, Ron Moulton (founder of the British Kite Flying Association) and Pat Lloyd (an internationally respected draughtsman) provide all the latest information on making and flying modern kites. The authoritative text and detailed drawings and even more colour photographs combine to describe the new era of advanced models, the latest materials and the expert skills required. Specialities such as kit fighting with the Rokkaku design, aerial photography, Parabear drops and team aerobatics are supported by 30 fully-dimensioned kite plans that embrace the traditional, the simple and the sophisticated.

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Book SynopsisHowever well equipped the workshop may be there seems to be an incessant need to make up special gadgets of one sort or another. These may range from mutilating a clothes peg to act as a 'third hand' up to major modifications to an existing machine tool. The making of such devices can be fun (indeed, some may appear to do nothing else!) but nevertheless the time taken up in 'devising the device' can often delay the completion of an important project. Shared experience is a most potent tool in reducing such delays, and can, moreover, often provide solutions to problems hitherto believed to be intractable. Tubal Cain has enjoyed more than sixty years' experience in designing and building engines and machines (in both full size and model dimensions) and over this time has made many ancillary devices. In this book he shares 52 of them with you. A number of these had been published in magazines from time to time and some were assembled in volume form about thirty years ago. The opportunity was later taken not only to reprint that book but to revise some of the entries to take advantage of user experience, to add new material and to introduce it into the popular Workshop Practice Series.Table of ContentsFive Clamp and Vice Projects. Ten Jigs and Fixtures. Twenty-five Projects Round and About the Lathe. Thirteen Miscellaneous Projects.

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Book SynopsisThis book is regarded as the perfect introduction to casting common hot metals in moulds, providing all the information needed by amateur foundrymen. Since 1954, when Foundrywork for the Amateur was first published, the advance of technology and engineering has been enormous and there have been many revisions along the way. However, conditions in the 21st century are so far removed from the state of affairs in the 1950s that, although the basic principle of the foundry remains the same, the language and the presentation of the book was due to be uplifted. This present edition therefore represents a complete rewrite to conform to the era and, in particular, to the availability of material which at one time was taken for granted. Not only has the text been updated, but the illustrations have been completely redrawn and, on the basis of the advances made in the amateur foundry since the early days, the photographs have also been renewed and increased in number. This new edition also reflects the author's growing interest in the model steam locomotive.Table of ContentsCrucibles. The Furnace. Foundry Sand. Moulding Boxes. Pattern Making. Cores and Core Making. Making a Greensand Mould. Melting Procedure. A 'Drop Bottom' Cupola. Suppliers.

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Book SynopsisOver the past couple of decades radio control equipment has become more reliable, cheaper and smaller. The latter means that large models are no longer required to carry the bulky items that made up early radio control equipment, so smaller models can be built more quickly at a lower cost. It might be thought that a smaller model might not perform as well as a large one but after designing and building twenty such small models the author has not found this to be a problem. In fact, the speed and economy with which they can be built has proven to be at a great advantage in that new ideas can be tried out before being used in larger models. This book details several different models, some of which have previously appeared in Model Boats magazine, which show that a small size and simple design does not mean inferior appearance or performance. It is also possible to scale up the plans to make larger models to suit your tastes.Table of ContentsIntroduction. Basic Terms. Balsawood. Card. Cutting. Sanding. Adhesives and Joints. Finishing. Propulsion. Propellor Assemblies. Installation. Rudder Assembly. Radio Installation. Batteries. Speed Control. Internal Installation. Building Time. The Models: Arcady. Talisman. Knocker White. YSD. Bredette. Jenny Sue. ATCH. Guardian. Electron.

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Book SynopsisThis book describes the many varied materials used by model engineers in their workshops such as iron and steel, non-ferrous metals including aluminium, brass and copper, hard and soft woods and a number of engineering and other plastics. It also contains details about abrasives, adhesives, bearing materials, ceramics and refractory materials, coatings, electroplating solutions, fuels, gases, lubricants, pickles, polishing materials, sealants and solders. It provides an easy reference for those seeking the right material for the task or an item specified on plan. Packed full of useful information, the book is aimed at those who build model locomotives, traction, boat and stationary steam engines, oil, diesel, glow and petrol engines, gas turbines, artillery pieces, farming appliances, carriages and other road vehicles as well as those who make clocks and workshop tools. It is also directed at those working with full-size machinery, such as vintage cars, motor and pedal cycles, traction engines and railway locomotives.Table of ContentsIron and Steel. Aluminium. Copper. Other Non-Ferrous Metals. Selecting Materials. Plastics. Wood. Refractory and Abrasive Materials. Jointing Materials. Cleaning, Etching, Pickling and Plating Fluids. Coatings, Fuels, Lubricants. Other Workshop Materials. Appendices: Safety. Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations. Metric/Imperial Conversion Tables. Useful Addresses. Bibliography.

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Brian King has spent a lifetime either thinking of, or actually building, model boats. This book is the result of that life's work, as well as 25 years' experience as a trained engineer and a college lecturer in engineering. It tackles advanced theory and practice for the maritime modeller and the author's own philosophy on model-making. The book covers the philosophy of model-making; building static and working models, researching sources of information and reading drawings. In the workshop, the projects involve materials, hulls, superstructure and decks, armament, ships' boats, finishing and painting, etching and making glass display cases. The advanced theory and technique in this book is largely based on the author's own very complicated modelling projects, including Victorian warships Devastation and Magnificent, 20th century ships Belfast and Queen Elizabeth, the pre-war aircraft carrier Glorious and the battleship Anson, as well as scale model RNLI lifeboats including Grace Darling's famous coble.

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Book SynopsisThe evolution of the compact, or portable, lathe has brought many a model engineer's life-long ambition to reality. No longer regarded as the scaled-down variant of the long-established permanent workshop machine, they are purpose-designed tools of remarkable ingenuity in their own right. Compact lathes (such as the Unimat III, Peatol, Shearline and Cowell range) are inexpensive, self-contained, adaptable to a broad range of machining techniques and ideally suited for beginners and those with working space restrictions. Stan Bray's comprehensive introduction to the subject covers the technology and the components, the machining operations and facilities which will enable the novice or experienced operator quickly to reach full proficiency and achieve the highest standards of lathe work.Table of ContentsSafety. Care of the Lathe. Lathe Tools. Turning Operations. Centre Height. Using the Three-Jaw Chuck. The Four-Jaw Chuck. The Faceplate. Turning Between Centres. Turning Tapers. Turning Radii. Drilling and Boring. Threading with Taps and Dies. Screw Cutting. Graduating and Dividing. Batch Production. Milling. Lubricants and Cutting Speeds. Uses for the Compact Lathe. Clockmaking. Unimat 4. The Proxxon pd 230/E. The Cowell Range. The Peatol Micro Lathe. Other Compact Lathes. Charts. Decimal Equivalents. Useful Terms & Phrases.

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Book SynopsisDevelopments in re-chargeable batteries and electronic systems have revolutionised electric powered radio control aircraft flying in recent years, particularly the lightweight end of the spectrum. Indoor flying with ultra-slow flying models of very light weight and now outdoor flight in restricted places is there to be enjoyed by all radio control modellers. Since the advent of practical electric powered models, German enthusiasts have been in the forefront of their development and Hinrik Schulte has developed a high level of expertise in the design, building and flying of super-lightweights. In Parkflyer, he has laid out the pointers to success in an easy-to-read form for all modellers who wish to join the movement. The book offers information on building, flying and choosing suitable sites for lightweight outdoor flying models and is packed with hints and tips on the gear and the models of which the author has practical experience.Table of ContentsFlying When You Feel Like It. Models and Flying - The Basics. Construction Methods for Parkflyers. Model Categories. Propulsion Systems. Batteries for Parkflyers. Chargers for Parkflyers. Radio Components. Parkflyers Reviewed. Even More Fun in the Park. Looking Forward and Looking Back. Useful Addresses.

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Book SynopsisThis book provides all the information any ship modeller interested in powering a model boat using live steam will need. It offers both the basic theory covering the steam power plant and fully detailed drawings for the construction of simple and advanced steam engines, boilers and ancillary equipment. There has been a huge growth in interest in live steam-powered model boats in recent years but modellers have endured a dearth of practical construction drawings for suitable steam plants. Here, the author covers many types of engine from simple oscillating cylinder types to piston and poppet valve engines and the application of radio control to the management of the boiler and engine. The projects (which all include detailed scale plans) include simple single cylinder oscillating engines, multiple cylinder oscillating engines, single and multiple cylindered slide valve engines, piston and poppet valve engines, boiler construction and heat sources, control units, reversing systems, radio control valves, and the mounting of engine and boiler units into model boats.Table of ContentsIntroduction 1. Steam Plant Design 2. Boiler Water 3. General Construction 4. Oscillating Engines 5. Slide Valve Engines 6. Miscellaneous Engines 7. Model Marine Boilers 8. Boiler Design and Construction 9. Boiler Fittings 10. Boiler Firing Methods 11. Boiler Feed Water Pumps 12. Steam Engine Lubrication 13. Going Astern 14. Valve Gear 15. Steam Turbines 16. Paddle Steamers 17. Automatic Controls

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Book SynopsisThis collection of eighteen unique projects for home workshop equipment enables the model engineer to create useful and even essential items that cannot be purchased commercially, including an auxiliary workbench, tap holders, distance and height gauges, a lathe back stop, a tailstock die-holder, faceplate clamps, collets, DTI accessories, sash clamps, low profile clamps and a tapping stand. Each project is designed to make the model engineer's task in hand easier than it would have been, had the items not been made. Each design is illustrated with good quality photographs and comprehensive working drawings. Author Harold Hall is a former editor of the enthusiasts' magazine Model Engineers' Workshop, within whose pages all of these projects were originally featured.Table of ContentsAuxiliary Bench. Tapping Guides. Guided Tap Holder. Large Tap Wrench. Distance Gauges. Lathe Tool Height Gauge. Lathe Back Stop. Tailstock Die Holders. Face Plate and Angel Plate Clamps. Lathe Collets. Thin Piece Collets. Dial Test Indicator Accessories. Faceplate Balancing Fixture. Low Profile Clamps. Engineer's Sash Clamps. Tapping Stand.

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Book SynopsisThis book describes the construction of two different clock projects - an eight day regulator clock and a month going regulator clock - and features full-page fully-dimensionalised working drawings supported by detailed photographs. It also includes instructions and plans for constructing glazed wood cases for each project. It is intended for model engineering hobbyists with basic facilities to enable them to venture into the field of horology by building their own precision clocks which can become treasured family heirlooms. The term 'regulator' simply describes a precision clock. Every clockmaker and repairer needs such an instrument to use in regulating his repair and new work. The typical English regulator, as described in the first section, beats at one second intervals and will run for eight days between winding. The second project is a month going regulator clock, an equally high precision type which will run for a whole month between winding. This book is based on a popular series of popular articles originally published over many years in Model Engineer magazine.Trade ReviewThe publisher has built a very successful niche in special interest books of a technical and engineering nature. This is a worthy addition to the list. The author has described the design and construction of an 8 day regulator clock that requires only a modest selection of engineering tools and which could be built using components made to order by an engineering company. The result is a fine clock with an open dial that provides a view of most of the clock works, mounted in a wooden case with three sides in glass. As a clock, it will provide good time keeping. As an engineering project it will build into a satisfying and practical item that requires only wall space. As an object, it makes a good taking point. The descriptive text is well written and provides a very easy to follow guide to building the clock. The text is accompanied by very clear engineering drawings that provide all of the detail necessary to complete the components and assemble the clock - firetrench.com.Table of ContentsCONTENTS. SECTION 1: An Eight-Day Regulator Clock: Plates and Pillars; Wheels; Crossing Out the Wheels; Lantern Pinions; Collets and Depthing Tool; Planting the Wheel Train; Drilling the Plates; Barrels; Main Barrel Assembly; Bearing Housings and End-stones; Centre Arbor; Fitting the Ball Races and Assembly; Back Cock; End-stones; Arbors; Maintaining Detent; Chapter Ring, Materials and Pillars; Fitting the Arbors; Dead Beat Escapement - Vulliamy Pallets; Crutch and Beat-Adjuster; Completing the First Assembly of Movement; Movement Mounting Bracket and Suspension Bracket; Pendulum and its Components; Line Anchor Bracket and Weight Pulley; First Test Running; The Weights; Hands and Minute Clutch; Finishing the Dials; Conclusion. A Glazed Case for This Clock: Materials; General Description; Construction; Finishing. SECTION 2: A Month-Going Regulator Clock: Materials; Making the Plates; Pillars, Nuts and Washer; Machining Methods; The Wheels; Crossing Out; Combined Wheel Collets and Lantern Pinions; Depthing the Wheel Train; Drilling, Milling and Trepanning the Plates; Bearing Housings, End-stones and Eccentric Bushes; The Arbors; The Barrels; Pallet Frame and Pallet Nibs; Setting the Escapement Action; Crutch and Beat Adjuster; Motion Work; Mounting Bracket; Suspension and Pendulum Rod; Pendulum Bob; Weights and Pulleys; Polishing and Preparation for Testing; Lubrication and Initial Test; Engraving the Chapter Ring; Marking Out and Cutting Numerals; Filling and Silvering; The Hands; An Optional Seconds Indicator; Conclusion. A Glazed Case for This Clock: Materials; General Description; Construction; Finishing. SECTION 3: Appendix: Ball-races; Barrels; Beat Adjustment; Bluing; Carbon Fibre; Crossing Out; Dividing; Drills; Filling Engraving; Gear Teeth; Lacquer; Loctite; Lubrication; Mechanical Clock; Metals; Pendulum Rods; Pendulum Bob; Pinions; Platform; Time Keeping; Weights and Lines. List of Suppliers.

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Book SynopsisA practical illustrated guide to making scale model tug boats, offering information and guidance in line with the very latest developments in tug technology and design, and modern advances in model building. It covers scratch building, kits and mixing the two. The first six chapters are devoted to tugs in general, arranged by the duties for which each type of tug is designed. Subsequent chapters cover the details of scale modelling. This book is an enlargement and substantial revision of the tug material which appeared in the author's previous book Scale Model Tugs & Trawlers (Nexus Special Interests, 1999). Illustrated with original photographs and plans, it has been compiled from a wealth of practical experience and material gathered by experienced professional ship modeller Tom Gorman.Table of ContentsTugs in general. Harbour tugs. Coastal tugs. Estuary tugs and tug tenders. Ocean-going and salvage tugs. Small tugs, drive gear and towing. Modelling materials; handling fibreglass and other materials. Tools and equipment; power tools. Building a model tug; kits, semi-kits, adhesives. Electric motors; selecting and installing batteries. Miniature steam engines; selection and installation. Installation of state-of-the-art radio control equipment. Machinery and deck details of tugs; construction in miniature. Lighting the model tug; installation of navigation lights. Painting and finishing; displaying static models; maintaining working models. Competition; joining a model boat club.

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Book SynopsisMaking a major purchase of a lathe, a milling machine or combination lathe/mill, whether manually operated or using computer numerical control (CNC), is a daunting prospect for any model engineer. This book provides practical advice on how to make the selection bearing in mind the particular needs of the individual. It provides descriptions and technical data about the wide range of machines and accessories available from UK, European, American and Far East manufacturers. It also looks at the many different types of tooling fixtures and accessories that may be required. This book will be welcomed by all model engineers who are setting up a home workshop or planning a major equipment acquisition.Trade ReviewThis book is number 46 in the ever expanding WORKSHOP PRACTICE SERIES. The series now covers virtually every aspect of machine shop practice, and lucky is the workshop with a complete set. This latest book by Alex Weiss covers in varying detail virtually all the currently available lathes and milling machines to be found in the home workshop, or indeed the smaller professional shop. This is a very up to date book with chapters on tooling, fixtures, combo's and that item becoming increasingly popular, the CNC machine. Once the preserve of top end professional workshops these machines are now making serious inroads into the home workshop. It is quite possible that in 20 years you will not be able to buy a manual lathe. There seems to be reluctance in some model engineering circles to eschew CNC machines but very few people still use treadle operated lathes !! The range of machines covered is staggering, including over 100 Far East lathes alone and almost as many milling machines. Second hand machines are also mentioned such as the much loved Tom Senior. If you are considering a new workshop or replacing an old machine this book is surely a must.' Colin Usher, Engineering in Miniature.Table of ContentsAcknowledgements. Introduction. Lathes. Combined lathes and milling machines. Milling machines. CNC machines. Lathe and mill tooling/fixtures. Conclusions. Useful contacts. Index.

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Book SynopsisThis second edition of Workshop Electrics has been completely revised and updated to bring it in line with the latest advances in technology and to fully conform with BS7671 (17th edition of wiring regulations). A quarter of the illustrations are also new. The book deals with electricity in the workshop and includes everything from fitting a 13amp plug to wiring up a new workshop building. Safety, a key issue is covered as well as inspection and testing. Starting with the planning necessary before electrical installation commences, the book then deals with the fusing, equipment, lighting, fixtures, fittings and wiring for 230-volt mains electricity. Further chapters cover outside workshops, three-phase supplies and a range of low-voltage equipment. Finally there is a glossary, a list of useful addresses and an index.Table of ContentsPlanning & Preparation. Safety in the Workshop. Single-Phase Supplies. Fuses and Miniature Circuit Breakers. Wiring and Mains Connection. Outside Workshops. Plugs and Sockets. Fixed Appliances. Lighting. Three-Phase Supplies. Low-Voltage Supplies. Glossary of Terms. Useful Addresses.

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Book SynopsisThis book follows on from the same author's introduction to the Mini-Lathe (Workshop Practice Series No. 43) and presents a series of projects which are intended to extend the versatility of this little machine. In some cases, additional machining capacity will be required, which some readers may find at their local model engineering club. The book covers the Mark 2 Mini-Lathe, and specific tools such as the radius turning attachment, the tailstock and the dividing head, and includes techniques such as taper turning and knurling. Whilst specifically written for the Mini-Lathe, some of the projects in this book can equally be applied to other small model engineering lathes and in many cases the concepts can be scaled to suit other equipment.Table of ContentsMark 2 Mini-Lathe. Improving the Radius Turning Attachment. Tailstock 'Off-Centre' for Taper Turning. Mini-Lathe Saddle Attachment. Taper Turning Attachment. Lever Feed for the Tailstock. Multi-Position Saddle Stop. Four Way Tailstock Turret. Long Cross Slide. Five Way Tailstock Turret. Dividing Head - Simple. Dividing Head - With Worm. Pump Centre. Simple Double-Ended Tailstock Dieholder. Knurling.

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The 'Scanners' series of books have been consistent bestsellers, being the UK's leading guides to receiving equipment employed by enthusiasts to monitor the short wave and VHF/UHF wavebands used by airfields, maritime and rescue services, and analogue and digital two-way private mobile radio systems. This new (seventh) edition covers the rapidly increasing trend towards digital two-way radio communications and the latest handheld and mobile/base scanners with some digital modes fitted. It has been fully re-written and updated to include the latest UK radio frequency listings and call signs for airports, maritime and emergency services and other professional organisations. The book covers the latest shifts in the hobby towards digital and PC- and tablet-controlled radio technology and illustrates the very latest commercial radio scanning equipment and accessories. Included are details of an increasing number of 'apps' for smartphones specifically for radio data decoding, including programs for digital scanner communications decoding for which a smartphone can be linked to an existing scanner radio to decode. Other innovations include TETRA as used by police, ambulance, fire and rescue services, and DMR modes such as Mototrbo. It is predicted that by 2016, fifty per cent of two-way radio communication in the UK will use digital modes.

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Book SynopsisThis beautifully illustrated bingo game features 64 breeds of dog from around the world. Spot all kinds of dogs – from the tiny chihuahua to the noble Great Dane, from the sleek saluki to the dreadlocked Hungarian puli, mark them off on your card and bingo! Dog Bingo brings a fun and educational twist to the traditional game as players learn the names and colourings of both their favourite breeds and weird and wonderful exotic dogs. Contains 64 superbly illustrated dog tokens, one board, 12 bingo cards and brightly coloured counters for you to mark up your card, as well as a leaflet containing basic information and a few quirky traits for all of the dogs featured.

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Book SynopsisPut your birdwatching expertise to the test and learn more about the birds in your garden with this new puzzle book from the RSPB!Do you know what the smallest bird in your garden is? And whose birdsong sounds like 'tea-cher, tea-cher, tea-cher'? Or what a gathering of nesting birds is called?Packed with questions, word games and bamboozling brainteasers, this fun-filled quiz book from the RSPB will test your knowledge and reveal incredible new facts about your garden visitors. Covering a variety of topics, from the garden environment, to nesting, biology and migration, and including a colour section to test identification, this book celebrates all the beautiful birds we can see from the comfort of our doorstep. Suitable for all levels, from the casual garden bird-spotter to the more serious birder, this book will make the perfect gift for anyone interested in British birds, and put them on the path to becoming an ornithological expert.*A Goldcrest, a Great Tit and a colony!

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Book SynopsisMost competitive players are very familiar with the idea of a sacrificial checkmating attack, but the positional sacrifice has been strangely neglected. By means of a subtle positional sacrifice, a player can sometimes fundamentally alter the course of a game in his or her favor. In this instructive and entertaining book International Master Neil McDonald demonstrates just how effective well-executed positional sacrifices are. Topics covered include sacrifices to open lines for the pieces, sacrifices as a defensive weapon, the exchange sacrifice, the psychology of sacrifice and much more.

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Book SynopsisThe Nimzo-Indian is one of the soundest and most popular defences against 1 d4, offering Black the chance to unbalance the game early on and play for a win without undue risk. Advocates include virtually all of the world's top players, including Garry Kasparov, Vladimir Kramnik, Vishy Anand and Anatoly Karpov. In this revolutionary book, Grandmaster Chris Ward revisits the basic principles behind the Nimzo-Indian and its many variations. Throughout this easy-to-read guide the reader is helped along by a wealth of notes, tips and warnings from the author, while key strategies, ideas and tactics for both sides are clearly illustrated. This book is ideal for the improving player.

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Book SynopsisInterested in chess and computers? Whether readers are talking about the latest chess playing programs or chess database software, this ground-breaking book answers all of their questions. A team of experts, all experienced chess software users, review all the latest software available, highlighting the positives, the negatives, and underline the money value. In addition, they provide fundamental answers to all those niggling little technical problems that always seem to arise with chess software. Whether they are looking for a way to defeat their chess computer, trying to prepare thoroughly against an old adversary, or just wishing to make the most of their chess software--then this is the perfect book for them. *Includes reviews of major chess software programs *Written by a team of expert software users *Ideal for casual, club and tournament players

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Book SynopsisA new look at the sharp and dangerous Grand Prix Attack, which is one of White's most aggressive ways of countering the Sicilian Defence. It leads to very complicated play right from the opening moves and contains plenty of pitfalls for the unwary Black player. So whether you play the Sicilian as Black, or need an antidote for White, this book is an essential addition to your armoury.

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Book SynopsisThe Queen's Gambit is one of the most popular and fundamental chess openings of all time and it has been the battleground for countless world-class encounters throughout the history of chess. Adherents include a long list of World champions, including Garry Kasparov, Anatoly Karpov, and Vladimir Kramnik. With his first two moves, Black creates a super-strong foothold in the center, one that is incredibly difficult to break down. In this book, John Shaw revisits the basic principles behind the Queen's Gambit and its many variations. Throughout this easy-to-read guide readers are aided by a wealth of notes, tips, and warnings from the author, while key strategies, ideas, and tactics for both sides are clearly illustrated. This book is ideal for the improving player. *Written by a seasoned Queen's Gambit expert *All the important lines are covered *A back-to-basics look at one of the most important openings

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Book SynopsisPositional chess remains a mystery to many and yet an understanding of the finer points of the game so often makes the difference between two equally matched players. Improve your positional play and you will see chess in a totally new dimension! In this unique book, International Master Jacob Aagaard selects many original examples of positional chess, the creme de la creme of those that he uses for training and study. Aagaard also delves deeply into the ideas of positional evaluation and analysis. * Teaches how to mix calculation with evaluation * Contains many original exercises * Written by a battle-hardened expert

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Book SynopsisThis book by International Grand Master Yasser Seirawan provides a move-by-move account of the best chess games of the last 25 years, played by the world's foremost chess competitors. With an authoritative voice that is by turns poetic and analytical, Seirawan serves as host of a fascinating excursion of the most brilliant chess game, providing highlights into and explanations of each and every move. Seirawan begins each game with a description of the historical atmosphere of the chess world --and sometimes the world at large--at the time the game was played. When he delves into the game itself, he starts with the reasoning behind the opening moves. From there he provides both a play-by-play description of the game and an analytical commentary, all the while examining the moves in terms of place development and possible tactical and strategic opportunities. Along the way, a handful of the players are profiled in biographies. In Winning Chess Brilliancies readers will get a taste of the most dazzling chess combinations devious strategies, and downright cruel blows as world champions risk it all! This book is truly a celebration of the sport of chess.

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Book SynopsisEndgames involving only kings and pawns are the most fundamental of all chess positions, and a firm understanding of them is required in order to become confident of tackling more complex endings that preceded them. In this easy-to-read guide, Grandmaster and distinguished endgames expert Glenn Flear focuses on the very basics of pawn endings. Beginning with the simplest of positions and only gradually working through to more challenging material, Flear outlines the key principles and rules, and demonstrates how these work in practical examples. As one of the priorities of such endings is to promote pawns to queens, Flear additionally deals with queen endings that arise naturally from the simpler form. As is commonplace with the renowned Starting Out series, there are an abundance of notes, tips and warnings throughout the book to help improving players. Starting Out: Pawn Endgames is perfect for those who have previously honed their chess skills with the earlier books Starting Out in Chess, Tips for Young Players and Improve Your Endgame Play. Highlights include: *Covers all crucial pawn endings *Easy step-by-step guide to better endgame play *Ideal for improving players *User-friendly layout to help readers absorb the key ideas

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Book SynopsisFrom a theoretical backwater to a fully blown main line opening, the rise of the Scandinavian Defence (1 e4 d5) has been nothing short of meteoric. Over the past 15 years the Scandinavian has become more and more popular both at club and Grandmaster level. It even managed to obtain an ultimate seal of approval when Vishy Anand employed it in his World Championship match with Garry Kasparov! This book provides a complete update of Emms's original and best-selling edition of The Scandinavian, published in 1997. Since then there have been many new and important discoveries from both sides of the board, and these are included here.Trade Review"...this excellent book fills a clear gap in the market."--British Chess Magazine

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Book SynopsisAlexei Shirov has dazzled and inspired a generation of chess fans with his unique brand of attacking chess. The Grandmaster, originally from Riga, Latvia, is widely regarded as one of the most aggressive and inventive chess players of the modern era, an argument backed up by his wealth of amazing games, rich in tactical fireworks and extraordinary moves. Fire on Board begins where the best-selling first edition left off in 1996. Shirov traces his progress at the top of the chess world since that year and presents a delightful collection of his favorite games, all explained in great detail to readers.Trade Review"When I first read this book, I felt like I was being treated to a long display of stunning fireworks."--John Watson, The Week in Chess "A tremendous game collection by a top star."--Eric Schiller, Chessworks.com "It contains many amazing games, that are full of wonderful combinations and sacrifices." --Bill Kelleher, ChessCafe.com

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Book SynopsisTired of constantly defending passive positions with the black pieces? Looking for something new and exciting to unleash at the chessboard? This book provides an answer to these perennial questions. International Master and renowned openings theoretician Richard Palliser presents a complete repertoire for Black against queen's pawn openings based on the dynamic and very much underrated Black Knights Tango. Using illustrative games, Palliser gives a thorough grounding on the key tactics and strategies behind this ambitious opening, while also highlighting the various tricks and traps that both sides have to watch out for. Studying in depth both the main lines and White's more offbeat tries for an advantage, Palliser gives the readers the required knowledge and confidence to immediately try the Tango in their own games. *An easy-to-learn repertoire for club and tournament players *Written by a Tango expert *Covers all of White's possibilities

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Book SynopsisThe very closely linked Slav and Semi-Slav Defences are two of the most popular and combative openings that Black can play against the Queen's Gambit. They have provided the battleground for thousands of exciting encounters between the world's chess elite, including Garry Kasparov, Vishy Anand, Vladimir Kramnik, Alexei Shirov, and Alexander Morozevich. Players of all levels are attracted to the Slav and the Semi-Slav because they are solid, dependable defences that do, however, promise abundant possibilities for dynamic counterplay. In this easy-to-read guide, Grandmaster and openings expert Glenn Flear goes back to basics, studying the essential principles of the Slav and Semi-Slav Defences and their numerous variations. Throughout the book there are an abundance of notes, tips, and warnings to guide improving players, while key strategies, ideas, and tactics for both sides are clearly illustrated. *User-friendly layout to help readers absorb ideas *Concentrates on the key principles of the Slav and Semi-Slav *Ideal for improving players

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Book SynopsisFew would disagree that the Queen's Gambit is one of the most important openings in chess. It has a long and distinguished history and has been played by virtually all the strongest Grandmasters: Garry Kasparov, Vladimir Kramnik, Anatoly Karpov, Vishy Anand--the list goes on and on! From the very beginning White develops actively, takes the initiative and strives to dominate the center. Most agree that the Queen's Gambit is White's best chance for an opening advantage after 1 d4 d5. Despite its many advantages, some prospective Queen's Gambit players are put off by the possibility of having to learn a labyrinth of different variations. In Play the Queen's Gambit Chris Ward solves this problem by presenting the reader with a concise and workable repertoire, offering a solution against each of Black's possible defences, whether it's a critical major variation or a tricky sideline. Ward examines the tactical and strategic motifs for both players and arms the reader with enough information and self-assurance to begin playing the Queen's Gambit in his or her own games.

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Book SynopsisOnce a chess player has figured out how all the chess pieces move, what is the next step on the chess ladder? This helpful and entertaining book provides players with the complete answer. In this easy-to-follow guide, renowned chess teacher Chris Ward explains all the crucial checkmating patterns, plus how to catch out opponents with an assortment of tricks and traps, commonly known as chess tactics. There is something for everyone in this book: improving players can benefit from learning the basic checkmates and the key tactics such as attacking and defending pieces, forks, pins, and skewers, while more experienced players can discover the delights of advanced checkmates and sneaky tricks, ones that can flummox even the world's best players! Learning chess tactics is fun and one of the quickest ways of improving in chess, and it's even more enjoyable when opponents begin falling for these tricks! Read this book and, with the help of a Grandmaster, any chess player will be ready to unleash the weapons in their chess battles, whoever their opponent is.

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Book SynopsisEveryman Chess continues its original and best-selling Starting Out series with detailed coverage of the Queen's Gambit Declined, an opening that is very much at the forefront of contemporary chess. The Queen's Gambit Declined is Black's fundamental answer to 1 d4 and an opening of great historical importance.Trade Review'The first books I browse when I go to the bookstore' - ChessCafe.com 'The ideal opening training manuals.' -- Glenn Flear - New In Chess 'They fill a serious gap in the current chess literature, and will be extremely popular with amateur chess players.' -- Chessville.com

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Book SynopsisThe Ruy Lopez is an incredibly popular opening at all levels of chess; this is perhaps unsurprising given that it's recognized by most experts as White's greatest chance of obtaining a lasting advantage after the moves 1 e4 e5. Also known as the Spanish Opening, the Lopez is steeped in rich tradition, having provided the battleground for countless clashes between World Champions of past and present: Kasparov, Fischer, Karpov, Topalov, Kramnik, Anand - the list is endless! .

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Book SynopsisThe Philidor is a dynamic and underrated answer to White's most popular opening move, 1 e4. Christian Bauer, himself a renowned Philidor expert, uncovers the secrets behind this intriguing opening. Using his own experience and other top-class Philidor games, Bauer identifies both the critical main lines and the tricky sidelines. He also examines the key tactical and strategic ideas for both White and Black, while highlighting crucial issues such as move-order options - a major weapon for the modern Grandmaster.

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Book SynopsisAll top chess players agree that to keep your tactical muscles in shape it's imperative to continue training, and the easiest and most fun way to do this is by performing tactical exercises. Even solving a few puzzles for ten minutes each day can be of utmost benefit for the aspiring player. But where can one find the required number of suitable puzzles to satisfy this demand? Look no further than "The Complete Chess Workout". In this book, tactics expert Richard Palliser presents the reader with a massive 1200 puzzles, all checked for accuracy by the latest computer engines. There is something for players of all levels here: many basic tactics - forks, pins, skewers and checkmates - to appeal to beginners and improvers, and a considerable number of brain-teasers that will tax even the strongest of players. Palliser has meticulously collected puzzles from practical play in recent years - a large percentage of the exercises here will be completely new to most readers. All the important tactical themes are covered, while there are special sections on opening traps and end games. Work your way through this book, and your opponents will soon be on the receiving end of your increased tactical powers!Trade Review"'Simply masterful' Grandmaster Glenn Flear reviewing Palliser's Tango! for New In Chess. 'Palliser is an admirably reliable guide' British Chess Magazine's review of Palliser's Bb5 Sicilian."

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Book SynopsisChess is an enthralling game that provides countless hours of enjoyment for players young and old, but it's true that for the beginner it can often seem like an intimidating prospect. Have you tried your luck at learning the game but have been put off by its sheer complexity, not to mention some of the demanding books on the subject. Don't give up, there's help on the way! Chess for Rookies is a fun-to-read guide for the regular person. Assuming no prior knowledge of this famous game, Craig Pritchett takes the reader on a journey through the crucial basics of chess. Mixed with instruction and humour, this book is an ideal way to learn chess and improve your skills. Reading this book you will: *Learn how to set up the chessboard *Discover how the pieces move, and understand their strengths and weaknesses *Gain knowledge of the basic chess tactics and strategies *Realize when to attack and when to defend *Learn the basics of the opening, middlegame and endgame *Understand tricky ideas such as castling and en passant *Find descriptions of all the strange-sounding chess terms *Discover the best places to play chess, whether on the board or on your computer *Find out who's who in the chess world *Be ready to beat your friends at chess!

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Book SynopsisDo you need a well-deserved break from your normal chess openings? Are you tired of constantly having to keep up with modern chess theory? Or perhaps you simply wish to try out something new and inspiring, but cannot decide amongst the embarrassment of choices available? Look no further for the answer! In "Dangerous Weapons: 1 e4 e5", renowned opening experts John Emms, Glenn Flear and Andrew Greet take a revolutionary look at one of the most famous and widely-played chess openings. Instead of travelling down well-trodden and analysed paths, the authors concentrate on fresh or little-explored variations, selecting a wealth of 'dangerous' options for both colours. Whether playing White or Black, a study of this book will leave you confident and fully-armed, and your opponents running for cover! "Dangerous Weapons" is an exciting series of opening books which supply the reader with an abundance of hard-hitting ideas to revitalize his or her opening repertoire. Many of the carefully chosen weapons are innovative, visually shocking, incredibly tricky, or have been unfairly discarded; they are guaranteed to throw even your most experienced opponent off balance. It discusses Open Games in a whole new light. It is packed with original ideas and analysis. It is ideal for ambitious and adventurous players.Trade Review"'Whoever absorbs this wealth of original analysis can expect exciting games and some quick wins, with both colours!' James Vigus, reviewing Dangerous Weapons: The Sicilian in British Chess Magazine. 'A lot of fun' GM Lubomir Kavalek reviewing Dangerous Weapons: The Nimzo-Indian in The Washington Post 'Everyman Chess looks to have a winning series straight out of the gate.' John Donaldson, reviewing the series for Jeremysilman.com"

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Book SynopsisAre you tired of playing the same old openings time and time again? Fed up with constantly having to keep up with modern chess theory? Or perhaps you simply wish to play something new and inspiring, but cannot decide between the numerous options available? Don't despair - help is on hand! In "Dangerous Weapons: The Queen's Gambit", opening experts Richard Palliser, Glenn Flear and Chris Ward team up to investigate one of the most popular openings in chess history, but in a revolutionary way. They concentrate on little-explored and fun-to-play variations of the Queen's Gambit, selecting a wealth of 'dangerous' options for both colours. Whether playing White or Black, a study of this book will leave you confident and fully-armed, and your opponents running for cover! "Dangerous Weapons" is an exciting series of opening books which supply the reader with an abundance of hard-hitting ideas to revitalize his or her opening repertoire. Many of the carefully chosen weapons are innovative, visually shocking, incredibly tricky, or have been unfairly discarded; they are guaranteed to throw even your most experienced opponent off balance. It features large array of opening weapons for both White and Black. It explains The Queen's Gambit in a completely new light. It is ideal for ambitious and adventurous players.Trade Review"'Whoever absorbs this wealth of original analysis can expect exciting games and some quick wins, with both colours!' James Vigus, reviewing Dangerous Weapons: The Sicilian in British Chess Magazine. 'A lot of fun' GM Lubomir Kavalek reviewing Dangerous Weapons: The Nimzo-Indian in The Washington Post 'Everyman Chess looks to have a winning series straight out of the gate.' John Donaldson, reviewing the series for Jeremysilman.com"

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Book SynopsisGrandmaster Nigel Davies revisits the fundamentals of the Modern Defence, studying in depth the crucial early moves and plans for both sides. This book is ideal for up-and-coming players.Trade Review'...an admirable and up-to-date first primer on this interesting system against 1e4.' British Chess Magazine on Alekhine's Defence.

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