1:48 F-104A/ C TFace

Double-sided Eduard masks, F-104A/C Starfighter, 1:48

This set differs from the basic masking set for the same aircraft in one specific thing: it holds masks for both sides of the glazing. Masking the inside has a practical reason. On the real aircraft the cockpit frames are painted on the inside as well, and if you mask them only from the outside, the cockpit color shows through the clear part and the frame looks unfinished. The double-sided version deals with that difference, because it lets you spray the inner side of the frames with the interior color before the part is seated in the fuselage.

The real subject

The Lockheed F-104 Starfighter is a single-engined supersonic fighter marked out by a very thin wing of small span and by T-shaped tail surfaces. The A and C versions represent the early form. The canopy is divided and framed, which makes it one of the most laborious places in the whole build.

Use and tips

• First stick the inner masks on and spray the frames from the inside with the interior color.
• Only then add the outer masks and carry on with the exterior finish.
• Degrease the glazing beforehand, otherwise the masks will not hold for the whole of the painting.
• Press the masks down with a soft stick, as a hard tool will scratch the clear part.
• Take the masks off soon after the paint has dried, pulling at a slant along the surface.

Who the set is for

For the modeler who, on a Starfighter in 1:48, wants the cockpit frames correctly dealt with in color on both sides. Anyone who masks only from the outside will make do with the basic variant of the set.

The masks are supplied unstuck. The model, paints and glue are not included in the package.