1:35 MH-60L

1:35 MH-60L: an Eduard masking set

A set of self-adhesive masks of kabuki paper, shaped ready for the glazing of a model of the MH-60L transport helicopter in 1:35 scale. It is neither a kit nor photo-etched parts: you get a sheet of pre-cut templates that follow the shape of the frames and glazed areas, so laborious cutting of strips of adhesive tape falls away. The masks cover the outer side of the glazing; anyone who wants to mask from inside the cabin as well will reach for the two-sided variant.

Why mask with templates

Kabuki paper has a fine fiber, it conforms well to curved surfaces and leaves no adhesive behind once removed. The cut edges are sharp, so the transition between frame and glass comes out cleanly even when spraying with an airbrush. In a large scale, where the glazing of a helicopter is extensive and articulated, the set saves hours of patient work and above all makes the width of all the frames uniform.

The real subject

The MH-60L is the transport variant of the Sikorsky Black Hawk helicopter adapted for the needs of American special purpose units. It differs from the basic version in its equipment for flight at night and in poor visibility, in the ability to carry auxiliary tanks and in machine gun armament in the side doors.

Usage tips

Lift the masks off the backing with tweezers and press them down with a stick or a wooden toothpick, not with a fingernail. First spray the shade that is to be seen on the inner side of the frames, and only then the exterior camouflage. Take the templates off while the paint is still fresh and pull them away at an acute angle, so that the paint is not torn off.

Who the set is for

• builders of large helicopter models with extensive glazing
• modelers who spray with an airbrush and want sharp edges to the frames
• those who do not want to spend an evening cutting tape
• beginners whose hand masking does not yet come out precisely

This is an accessory for building a model. Neither paints nor the kit itself are included in the package.