1:72 Boulton Paul Defiant - Night predators of the RAF

The real subject

The Boulton Paul Defiant is a British two-seat fighter of the Second World War that differed from other fighters in a fundamental way: the armament was carried in a rotating gun turret behind the pilot and the aircraft did not fire forward at all. In daytime combat such a layout did not prove itself, but at night, when the point was to find a target and attack it from behind, the Defiant found its place. It is this night service that the subject of this sheet is tied to.

What the sheet offers

Decals for Defiant models in 1:72 scale. They offer a finish that an ordinary kit does not usually have, so they turn a finished model into one particular machine rather than just a type. Which machines the sheet covers and how the markings are laid out is shown in the instructions supplied with the sheet; follow them for the placing as well.

• 1:72 scale
• the subject is the Boulton Paul Defiant
• the theme of night service with the RAF
• a wet decal, applied with water
• it goes onto a gloss surface and is coated with matte varnish once dry

How to apply the decals

Coat the area under the decal with gloss varnish; on a matte surface silvering forms under the film. Cut the decal out with a little paper around it, dip it in lukewarm water for a few seconds and let it stand until it will slide to the side. Nudge it into place on the model, blot off the excess water and press it down with a soft cloth. On broken areas a decal softener helps the film wrap around the detail. Once it has dried, go over the whole thing with matte or semi-matte varnish so that the edges of the film disappear.

Who it is for

For builders of British aircraft who want a machine with a clear story in the display case, and for those who do not care for the finish supplied with the kit. The model, the paints, the varnishes and the decal softener are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.