1:48 F-4 J/S Phantom II - canopy frame paint mask (double sided)

Canopy frames of the naval Phantoms J and S from both sides

Double-sided stencils for the framing of the cockpit of the carrier version of the Phantom II, 1:48 scale.

The cockpit open on deck

Naval Phantoms stood between flights with the sections of the canopy raised, so the frames and the ejection seats were in plain view. The J version flew with Navy fighter squadrons and with Marine Corps units, and for a time it was also used by a demonstration team, where spectators stood a few steps from the glazing. The later rebuild to S added leading-edge slats and strengthened the structure, but the shape of the glazed part stayed unchanged. The seats changed over the years and on a model with the canopy raised they become the main visual element of the whole build, so the framing around them is seen really close up.

Working with a double-sided set

Start inside: seat the inner pieces on the glass, go over them with the color of the cockpit and let the coat dry thoroughly. Only then cover the outside and carry on with the finish of the airframe. The glazing of carrier machines is usually polished on a model, so after lifting the pieces off it pays to go over the area with a fine polishing paste. Apply the paint sparingly; the edge of a frame spreads quickly and a later repair on glass turns out badly.

Who it makes sense for

• A build with the canopy raised on a stand
• Those interested in Navy fighter squadrons
• Those who want the frames drawn inside the cockpit as well
• Modelers of the late rebuild with slats
• Anyone adding a detail set to the cockpit