1:32 Bf 109 G-6, flown by Major Heinrich Ehrler, III./JG 5 June 1943

Painting masks Bf 109 G-6, Heinrich Ehrler, III./JG 5 — 1:32, AML

A set of painting masks from the Czech manufacturer AML for the large 1:32 scale, aimed at the camouflage of one documented aircraft: the Messerschmitt Bf 109 G-6 flown in June 1943 by Heinrich Ehrler, a pilot of III./JG 5. At that time this unit operated in northern Europe, where its aircraft carried camouflage schemes adapted to the local setting.

Why masks instead of hand painting

On a model of a particular real aircraft accuracy is decisive: the shape and placing of the camouflage fields are documented, so every deviation shows. The masks carry the pattern onto the model repeatably and with edges that look true in 1:32 scale; freehand, that kind of accuracy is very hard to reach.

Spraying tips

• Paint from the lighter shades to the darker ones and let the paint vent properly between coats.
• Press the edges of the masks down, spray square to the surface and in thin coats.
• Lift the masks off at a sharp angle shortly after spraying and the edges will stay clean.
• Put the masks you have lifted off back on the backing paper and the sheet stays easy to follow throughout the build.

Who the set is for

• For builders of the Bf 109 in 1:32 scale who want a model of a particular documented aircraft.
• For modelers interested in the equipment of units operating on the northern sector of the front.
• For anyone who prefers accurate spraying to laborious cutting of tape.