1:48 SBD

Masking set for the SBD, 1:48 scale

A set of precisely cut masks for a model of the American SBD carrier dive bomber in 1:48 scale. It is not a kit or a set of paints but an aid that shortens the most laborious part of painting, namely masking the glazing by hand.

The real subject

The SBD Dauntless was a two-seat carrier bomber built to attack in a dive. Its recognition features are the perforated dive brakes on the trailing edge of the wing and the long glazed canopy, under which the pilot sits in front and the rear gunner behind. It is exactly that glazing that makes the most work when painting: it has many frames, and in 1:48 scale they are already narrow enough that cutting tape by hand robs them of straight edges.

How to use the masks

• First wash and degrease the clear part; a mask will not hold on a greasy surface.
• Lift the mask off the backing with the tip of a scalpel or with tweezers and lay it on the relevant field.
• Press the edges down firmly with a toothpick so that paint cannot get under them.
• The masks go on before spraying, not after the varnish has dried.
• Once the paint has dried, take the masks off carefully while the layer is fresh and does not come away with them.

Who the set is for

For anyone building the SBD in 1:48 scale who wants the cockpit frames sharp and evenly wide. It saves hours of work and, above all, of correction. The scope of the sheet, that is which parts and areas the set covers, is given by the manufacturer in the enclosed instructions, so test-fit the masks dry and compare them with the part before applying them.

The package contains masks only. The model, paints and glue are not included, unless stated otherwise.