1:48 Bristol Beaufighter Mk.VI /TAM

Masking templates Bristol Beaufighter Mk.VI 1:48 from AML

A set of self-adhesive masking templates from the Czech maker AML for a model of the Bristol Beaufighter Mk.VI heavy fighter in 1:48 scale. The twin-engined Beaufighter is a large model in this scale with a long fuselage and a wide wing, and it is exactly on areas like these that masks are most appreciated. Instead of laborious masking off with tape you lay down the pre-cut pieces and spray the camouflage in one pass, with the same run of the lines on both halves of the wing.

The real subject

The Bristol Beaufighter was a British twin-engined heavy fighter powered by Hercules radial engines. The Mk.VI version carried heavy gun armament in the nose and the wing and served as a night fighter as well as a strike machine against shipping. Beaufighters operated over Europe, the Mediterranean and in the Pacific, and their camouflage schemes differed markedly according to their use.

Tips for working with masks

Apply large masking pieces gradually from one edge, so that the film does not ripple. On the curves of the engine nacelles warm the mask in the palm of your hand; it shapes better. Spray light coats and lead the paint away from the mask rather than against the edge, which reduces the risk of it running under. Take the templates off with tweezers at a sharp angle shortly after spraying.

Who the accessory is for

• Builders of twin-engined models in 1:48 who want uniform and clean camouflage lines.
• Modelers who work with an airbrush.
• Anyone who wants to save hours of masking off large areas.

These are masking templates, an accessory for painting. The model, paints and glue are not included in the package.