1:32 Messerschmitt Bf-109E-4

Painting masks in 1:32 scale for the Messerschmitt Bf-109E-4 from 1 Man Army

This item is not an aircraft model but a set of self-adhesive painting masks intended for painting an already built model in 1:32 scale. The masks are stuck onto the surface, sprayed over with paint and removed once dry, so the resulting insignia and lettering are sprayed directly into the finish rather than transferred by a decal. The exact extent of the set, that is which particular insignia, lettering or glazed parts it covers, is not stated here; go by the instructions enclosed in the package.

Use

• Finish the model and let the paint cure completely, otherwise the surface may tear away when the mask is removed.
• Degrease the surface and remove dust so that the mask seats along its whole edge.
• Lift the mask off the backing with tweezers and lay it down exactly according to the instructions, then smooth it with a soft tool.
• Spray the paint in several really thin coats, because a heavy coat creeps under the edge and runs into the step.
• Remove the mask shortly after the paint dries, while the coat is still flexible; bending it sharply back on itself helps.

Who the set is for

For modelers who build in the large 1:32 scale and want to avoid silvering and the glossy edges of decals. Sprayed insignia behave as part of the finish, weather more easily and leave no step on the surface. The set assumes work with an airbrush and some experience of masking.

The real subject

The Messerschmitt Bf-109E-4 is one version of a single-engine single-seat fighter with a cantilever low wing, a liquid-cooled inverted V12 engine and retractable landing gear with a tail wheel. The E series is marked by the more angular shape of the canopy and by the characteristic radiators under the wing.

The set does not contain the model, paints or glue. Before you buy, check that the masks match the 1:32 scale kit you are building.