1:72 Boeing B-17F

Kits-World 1:72 Boeing B-17F, decal sheet

A printed accessory for modelers, not a kit. The sheet of water-slide decals in 1:72 scale from the manufacturer Kits-World is intended for a model of the four-engine bomber Boeing B-17F. It serves for giving a model markings other than those from the box, or for replacing a sheet that has been ruined in the original packaging.

The real subject

The B-17F was the version in which the Flying Fortress fully asserted itself in daylight bombing over Europe. Compared with the older series it was given a one-piece glazed nose without cross framing, modified propellers with wider blades and a number of internal changes that raised the load-carrying ability and the range. It was precisely with machines of this version that it became clear how difficult it was to defend bomber formations without escort fighters along the whole route of a flight, which led to further strengthening of the defensive armament.

Application tips

The key is correct soaking. Use lukewarm to warm water, never boiling, and leave the decal in it only until the film starts to slide freely on the backing paper. That tends to be a matter of tens of seconds. Long soaking washes the adhesive out and the decal then does not hold on the model. If that happens, a drop of thin decal adhesive applied to the area before the film is transferred will help. Lay the paper with the released decal against the model and slide the film into place; do not lift it with tweezers.

Who the sheet is for

• Modelers building the B-17F in 1:72 scale
• Builders who want to set a model apart from the usual variants from the box
• Collectors building a series of American bombers
• Anyone looking for a replacement for aged decals from an older kit

The package contains decals only. The model, paints and the chemistry for application are not part of it.