1:48 F-35C Lightning II BASIC Kabuki Masks (For Tamiya 61127 Kit)

A BASIC masking set for the F-35C in 1:48

This masking set of the BASIC level from the Czech manufacturer New Ware contains pre-cut shapes in Japanese kabuki tape. It serves for quick and accurate covering of the clear parts and other small areas while spraying a model of the carrier version of the Lightning II in 1:48 scale. The shapes of the pieces follow the clear parts of the Tamiya 61127 kit.

The extent of the lowest level

The basic level is the most limited of the manufacturer's variants: it covers the canopy and the clear parts from the outside, that is what every builder really needs. Anyone who wants to cover the inner side of the canopy as well, or the camouflage pattern itself, will reach for the higher levels of the same range. The advantage is that it takes care of the part of the work where mistakes are made most often.

The F-35C Lightning II

The letter C designates the form for aircraft carriers. It differs from the other members of the family in its markedly larger wing area with folding tips, strengthened landing gear and an arrestor hook, thanks to which it can land on a deck and at the same time carry more fuel. The different wing outline is apparent on a model as well, so it pays to have masks cut for exactly this version and not for one of the land-based ones.

Practical advice on painting

• Press the mask down with a toothpick, above all in the corners of the frames.
• Degrease the clear parts first, so that the tape holds reliably.
• Spray thinly and in several coats, or the paint will creep underneath.
• Take the tape off while the coat is still fresh.
• Keep the pieces you take off; they may still come in useful.