1:32 J2M3 Raiden In&Out

The real subject

The Mitsubishi J2M3 Raiden was a Japanese single-engine fighter of the Second World War, built as an interceptor against bombers. It can be told from ordinary fighters at first sight: a large-diameter radial engine is covered by a spindle-shaped fuselage, the cockpit sits set back and the landing gear is short and sturdy. The J2M3 version carried cannon armament in the wing. The Allies listed the aircraft under the code name Jack.

What the masking set deals with

In 1:32 scale the cockpit canopy frames are large and every uneven line is visible on the finished model. The die-cut masks follow the shape of the individual panes, so the edge of the spraying comes out sharp even where tape would bend badly. The In and Out designation means that the set deals with the canopy from both sides: the outer masks hold the outline of the frames, while the inner ones protect the transparent surface while the cockpit is painted from inside. The exact range of the sheet is given in the manufacturer's instructions.

How to work with the masks

The masks are applied to the clear part before spraying, not after it. Wash the part first and let it dry completely, so that no greasy film stays on the glazing. Transfer a mask with the tip of a knife or with tweezers, lay it in place and press the edges down firmly with a toothpick; it is precisely under an unpressed edge that paint creeps. Spray in several thin coats instead of one heavy one. Lift the masks as soon as the paint has dried, so that they do not pull the edge of the finish away with them.

Who it is for

For modelers who are building the Raiden in 1:32 scale and want the glazing clean without the slow trimming of tape. The kit, paints and glue are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.