1:72 Mitsubishi Ki-21 Sally national insignia and unit markings

The real subject

The Mitsubishi Ki-21 was a twin-engine bomber of the Japanese Army Air Force, listed by the Allies under the code name Sally. It was among the most widespread Japanese bombers of its day and stayed in service practically throughout the war. Models of this machine carry large national insignia on the wings and on the fuselage, and in addition stripes and unit markings on the tail surfaces, so the markings tell a great deal in the final impression a model makes.

What the set contains

Masks for spraying the national insignia and unit markings in 1:72 scale. The mask defines the area that is to be sprayed; the finished marking is then part of the paint layer of the model, not a film applied on top. The placement and orientation of the individual markings are given in the manufacturer's instructions.

Building and painting tips

The masks are applied before spraying, to a dry and degreased surface. Press the edges down carefully, so that paint cannot flow under them. Spray perpendicular to the surface and in thin coats, otherwise the paint creeps under the edge and the outline is blurred. Lift the mask off with pointed tweezers as soon as the paint has set; the sooner you do that, the crisper the edge stays. On two-color insignia let the first shade dry through properly and only then lay the next mask on.

Who it is for

The set suits modelers who want sprayed markings instead of decals, with no glossy edge and no risk of silvering on a textured surface. The kit, paints and glue are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.