1:32 F-4E/EJ Phantom II Canopy Mask inside and outside Tamiya

The canopy of the Phantom F-4E and F-4EJ from both sides, 1:32

A version with two sets of pieces, one for the outer and one for the inner surface of the clear parts. The result is a frame that has the right shade on each side and a precise dividing edge between them. On a model this large, where you really can look into the cockpit, that makes a fundamental difference.

Two worlds of one type

While the American F-4E went through combat in the Middle East and in Southeast Asia and their cockpits carry the traces of hard service, the Japanese F-4EJ spent their lives mostly patrolling over the islands and in their later upgraded form flew until the end of the 2010s. For a modeler that means two entirely different moods of the same machine, from scuffed camouflage to a carefully maintained all-gray finish. The inside of the cockpit meanwhile keeps the same dark shade on both, which comes out strongly through the clear parts.

Spraying recommendations

Fit the inner pieces before you glue the clear parts into the fuselage, and spray the interior separately. Let it dry thoroughly, and only then fit the outer pieces and carry on with the camouflage. Lift both sets off after the last clear coat is finished, not before.

Who it suits

• modelers who build with the canopy open
• those interested in the Japanese and the American form of the same type
• those who want a perfect transition of colors at the edge of a frame
• builders of large scales with a worked-out interior