1:48 SR-71 expert (Italeri/Testors)

1:48 mask set for the Lockheed SR-71, the EXPERT level (New Ware)

This is not a kit but an accessory for painting a model. The set contains machine-cut painting masks that are stuck onto the areas meant to stay free of paint. With New Ware sets the designation EXPERT is the most extensive level of coverage compared with the BASIC and ADVANCED variants. The SR-71 model in 1:48 scale is a large build and the masking on it is correspondingly laborious, which is why the wider set is worth having. The set is designed for the Italeri or Testors kits.

The real subject

The Lockheed SR-71 was an American strategic reconnaissance aircraft capable of sustained flight well above three times the speed of sound. Because of the temperatures created by friction with the air at such speed, the structure was largely of titanium and the airframe was designed to expand in flight. Its dark finish, which helped carry the heat away and gave the aircraft its well-known nickname, is characteristic as well.

Spraying the dark finish

An all-over dark finish forgives nothing: every bleed under a mask and every fingerprint shows. Degrease the model before spraying, therefore, and handle the clean parts through a glove. Lay the masks down in sections and press the edges carefully. Spray the dark color in thin coats and let it dry through; the mask then comes off with no risk of tearing an edge. Deeply dark surfaces look flat, so it is worth shading the tone gently and breaking the panels up, so that the model gains depth.

Who the set is for

• builders of a large model, where masking by hand takes the most time
• modelers who want flawless frames on a dark finish
• the advanced, who will use the extra masks of the EXPERT level
• everyone who wants a cockpit with no paint bleed and no glue residue

The masks are cut to the shape of one particular kit; check that it matches your model before buying. The kit, paints and glue are not included in the package.