1:144 Grumman OV-1A/JOV-1A Mohawk

Grumman OV-1A/JOV-1A Mohawk 1:144 - a masking set (Peewit)

Pre-cut masks for a model of the Grumman OV-1A observation aircraft and its armed variant the JOV-1A in 1:144 scale. It is neither a kit nor a finished model but an accessory that serves for spraying the glazing frames and other sharply bounded areas accurately on a model you already have.

The real subject

The Mohawk was a twin-engined turboprop observation and reconnaissance aircraft meant for work over the battlefield at low altitude. Its recognition features are the triple tail, the bulged side glazing of the cabin allowing a view straight down, and a crew seated side by side. The OV-1A version was the basic observation and photo-reconnaissance variant; the designation JOV-1A was carried by several machines modified for trials with armament under the wing.

How to work with the masks

In 1:144 scale a cockpit frame measures a fraction of a millimeter - cutting one from masking tape by hand is slow and almost always inaccurate. The masks, by contrast, are die-cut to the shape of the part, so measuring and cutting with a scalpel directly on the model are done away with, and with them the risk of the knife gouging a clear part. The procedure is simple: degrease the glazing, lift a mask off the sheet with tweezers or the tip of a knife, lay it down and press it with a cotton swab from the center toward the edges. Spray the paint in several thin layers; a heavy layer is apt to creep under the edge. Take a mask off while the finish is only touch-dry - once fully cured it can pull the edge of the paint away.

Who the set is for

• Builders of models in the small 1:144 scale, where cutting masks by hand is impractical
• Modelers who want sharp, even cockpit frames
• Anyone interested in American observation hardware
• Everyone who wants to shorten the most tiresome part of preparation before spraying

The set is an accessory for the model. The model, paints and glue are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.