1:32 B5N2 Kate National Insignias And Stencils (Corrected) (For Infinity Models Kits)

B5N2 Kate 1:32, insignia and stencils

This set does not go only for the national insignia: according to the name it also contains the stencil markings and lettering on the airframe. That is less usual in masking, because small lettering is traditionally dealt with by decals. Sprayed markings have one advantage, however, that a decal can never catch up with: they have no surface of their own, so the sheen and the texture of the whole aircraft stay uniform after clear coating.

The real subject

The carrier-borne B5N2 carried markings typical of the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service: the hinomaru on the wings and on the fuselage, unit codes on the rudder and with them small technical lettering at the fuel fillers, the footsteps and the access openings. The name gives that this is the corrected form of these markings; exactly what the change consists of is not stated here.

How to spray small markings

Lettering calls for a completely different procedure than large circles. Lower the pressure, thin the paint more than usual and spray from a shorter distance. A heavier coat would block the gaps in thin lines and all that would be left of the lettering is a blot. Do the insignia first and the small markings only after them, so that no overspray is carried into them. After uncovering, check the result with a magnifier: in this scale you will appreciate one.

Who it suits

• For modelers who want the whole markings sprayed, not just the insignia.
• For builders with a well-tuned airbrush technique at low pressure.
• For those who want a uniform surface sheen without islands of carrier film.
• For anyone interested in carrier aircraft of the Imperial Japanese Navy.

This item does not contain a kit of the aircraft.