1:48 Bell P-39Q/N Airacobra

The real subject

The Bell P-39 Airacobra is an American fighter of the Second World War with an unusual layout: the engine sits behind the pilot in the middle of the fuselage and drives the propeller through a long shaft run under the cockpit. It was precisely for that reason that the aircraft was given nose landing gear, which was then a rare solution on fighters. The Q and N versions belong to the late series, and a large part of these machines went to the Soviet Air Force, where the Airacobra proved itself in fighting over the front at low and medium altitudes.

What the set contains

A set of masks in 1:48 scale for the landing gear bays. It lets you paint the inside of a bay in a different shade from the surrounding surfaces while keeping a crisp transition at the rim. That pays off especially on the Airacobra, where the nose bay is clearly visible thanks to the nose gear and the machine stands level on the ground, so a view into the bays offers itself.

Building and painting tips

• Apply the masks before spraying, onto a dry and degreased surface.
• Press the edges down with a blunt tool so that paint cannot run under them.
• Apply the paint in thin coats and let them set properly.
• Take a mask off only once the paint has dried, slowly and at a sharp angle.
• Paint the inside of the bays before you close them into the assembly.

Terms of supply

The masks are supplied on their own. The kit, paints and glue are not included in the box, unless stated otherwise. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the method of application and the placement of the individual pieces.