1:48 Lockheed F-80 Shooting Star. Part 2

Lockheed F-80 Shooting Star decals, part 2 (1:48)

The second part of the Print Scale decal series for the Lockheed F-80 Shooting Star in 1:48 scale. The sheet is sold separately and is intended for a finished, painted model.

The real subject

The F-80 was a single-seat jet fighter with a straight wing, the engine housed in the fuselage and air intakes in the sides. Besides the fighter role it was used in Korea mainly against ground targets, where it was gradually replaced by swept-wing types. For modelers it is interesting precisely because of this transitional position between the piston and the jet generation, and also for the wealth of its markings, from bold colored bands to small service lettering.

Matte or gloss clear coat

The last step decides whether the markings will look printed on or stuck on. Once the decals have dried and the residue of the softener has been removed, degrease the model and spray it with a clear coat in whatever sheen the real machine had. A matte coat hides the edge of the film best, but it will also flatten any metallic surface. A medium, satin sheen is usually a good compromise. Spray thinly and in several passes; one heavy coat over a decal easily turns white. If you are combining areas of different sheen, mask them only after the markings have been sealed.

Who the sheet is for

• For builders who have the first part of the series and are adding the second.
• For modelers of early jet aircraft.
• For those who want to bring the sheen of the whole model into line.
• For anyone after alternative markings outside the contents of the box.