1:48 Boeing B-17G Early US stars & Markings airbrush mask for HK Models

The real subject

The Boeing B-17G is the last and most numerous production form of the American four-engine heavy bomber. It is told at first glance from the earlier versions by the gun turret under the nose, which was meant to cover the most vulnerable direction, that is, a head-on attack. That is exactly why the B-17G is easy to recognize by shape, and a mistake in the national insignia on its large areas of fuselage and wing is visible from a distance.

What the set contains

Masks for spraying the American national insignia and other markings in 1:48 scale. The extent of the set and the exact placement of the individual masks are given in the manufacturer's instructions. The name ties the set to a kit from HK Models, so the shape and size match its model; on another kit of the same scale, check the position of the masks in advance.

How to use the masks

The masks are applied to a finished, thoroughly cured base coat before spraying the insignia, not after it. Press the edges down properly, above all over panel joints and rivets, because that is where paint runs underneath. Spray perpendicular to the surface and in thin coats; a heavy application creates a ridge at the edge of the mask that stays palpable after it is peeled off. Multicolor insignia are done in layers, that is, first one color, then remasking once it has dried and only then the second, with the order given in the instructions. Take the mask off as soon as the paint is dry to the touch, and pull it slowly at an acute angle.

Why masks instead of decals

A sprayed insignia is part of the layer of paint, so it has no glossy edge of film, it does not silver and it holds even on a matte or uneven surface. The kit, paints and an airbrush are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.