1:48 P-39/P-400

P-39/P-400 Airacobra painting masks — Eduard set, 1:48 scale

A set of precisely pre-cut self-adhesive painting masks from the Czech manufacturer Eduard for a model of the American Bell P-39 Airacobra fighter and its export variant, the P-400, in 1:48 scale. It is not a kit and it is not a model — it is an accessory that makes it easy to paint the canopy glazing and other small areas cleanly. The masks stick straight onto the parts, so the framing of the glazing and of the side doors gets sharp, straight edges without any laborious cutting of masking tape. Sets of this type usually also include circular masks for the wheel rims, which make it easier to separate the tire from the rim.

The real subject

The Bell P-39 Airacobra was an American fighter with an unusual layout: the engine sat in the middle of the fuselage behind the pilot and drove the propeller through a long shaft, which freed the nose for a large cannon firing through the propeller hub. The aircraft had a nose landing gear and, instead of a sliding canopy, automobile-style side doors. The Soviet Air Force used it in large numbers. The export P-400 was originally destined for British units.

Tips for using the masks

Lift each mask off the backing carefully with tweezers or the tip of a knife and lay it on a dry, degreased surface. Press the edges down firmly so that paint cannot bleed underneath. Apply the paint in thin coats, ideally with an airbrush, and pull the mask off before the coat hardens completely. On strongly curved shapes it helps to seal the edge with masking fluid.

Who the set is for

• Modelers building the P-39/P-400 Airacobra fighter in 1:48 scale
• Those who want sharp, clean framing around the canopy and the doors
• Builders who want to avoid cutting masking tape by hand
• Collectors of Eduard accessories

This is a set of painting masks, not a model. The kit, paints and glue are not included in the package.