1:48 B7A Ruysei - Optical Illusion Control Surfaces for Hasegawa

The real subject

The Aichi B7A Ryusei is a Japanese carrier bomber from the end of the Second World War, intended for torpedo attack and for dive bombing alike. It is recognized by the inverted gull wing and by its large dimensions for the time. Only a small number were built, which makes it all the more interesting as a subject.

What the set is for

The set contains masks in the shape of the control surfaces, that is of the rudder and elevators, the ailerons and the landing flaps. They cover an area so that it can be sprayed in a finely different shade and the edge between the fixed and the movable part stands out. On a finished model the surfaces then come across as separate parts, even though they are rendered in one piece with the wing and the tail surfaces. The masks are pre-cut and intended for a B7A model in 1:48 scale from the Hasegawa company. It is a refinement that calls for no intervention in the build and yet brings a finished model markedly to life, because a uniform wing surface gains division.

Building and painting tips

• Fit the masks only onto a dried base finish, onto a degreased surface.
• Choose a fine difference of shade; a strong contrast comes across as unnatural.
• Spray the paint in thin coats and at a lower pressure, so that it does not run under an edge.
• The particular order of the steps and the recommended way of shading are in the manufacturer's instructions.
• Take the mask off shortly after the paint has dried and pull it at a slant to the surface.

Terms of supply

The masking set alone is supplied. The kit, paints and decals are not part of the package, unless stated otherwise.