1:72 Handley-Page Halifax Part 1

A heavy bomber that stood in the shadow of a more famous colleague

The Halifax flew before the Lancaster and did a good deal of work that is spoken about less than it deserves. The first variants were powered by Merlin V-12 engines, the later series received radial Hercules engines and with them better performance at altitude. Besides night bombing, the machine was used for dropping agents over occupied Europe, as a glider tug and for maritime patrol.

Why a separate sheet pays off for this subject

There were usually a great many markings on the fuselages of these aircraft: squadron codes, names and nose art, tallies of the missions flown and small technical inscriptions around the crew entry door. A decal set can cover several particular machines at once, so the builder chooses a specific story, not merely a general version. The designation of the first part suggests that the manufacturer has divided the subject up and that each sheet carries different aircraft.

Application and surface preparation

The base should be smooth and glossy, otherwise air will be trapped under the thin film and the design will lighten. After soaking in lukewarm water it is left to rest for a while, moved into place with a brush, and the remaining water is drawn off with absorbent paper. The rest of the adhesive has to be wiped off with a damp cloth, otherwise it leaves stains.

A word on the material

This manufacturer prints the designs on a continuous carrier film across the whole sheet, so they have to be cut out close around the outline. A surplus glossy edge would stay visible after drying even under a matte coat, and on a dark camouflage it would stand out especially. Plastic parts, paints and photo-etched accessories are not supplied with the sheet.