1:48 Mitsubishi A6M5 Zero TFace

The real subject

The Mitsubishi A6M5 Zero is a Japanese carrier fighter, the fifth version, recognizable by its shortened and rounded wingtips. The cockpit is covered by a long greenhouse canopy with a prominent grid of frames, which is hard to mask with tape on a model. It is on this type in particular that the inner face of the glazing is clearly visible, because the cockpit frame is usually a different color on the inside from the outer finish.

What the set contains

A masking set in 1:48 scale from Eduard. The TFace designation means that the sheet carries masks for the outer as well as the inner face of the glazing: the frames can be sprayed from both sides and the view through the cockpit then looks as honest as the view from outside. The pieces are cut to finished shapes at the factory and an enclosed diagram shows where they go. The set is shaped for a particular kit, which the manufacturer's instructions name.

Building and painting tips

Apply the inner masks before you set the canopy on the fuselage, otherwise the spot is hard to reach. Wash the glazing in advance and let it dry. Apply the masks before spraying and press the edges down with a blunt tip. Spray the inner face in the cockpit shade and then the outside in the airframe's finish; leave the paint time to dry between the two coats. Take the masks off with an angled pull as soon as the paint is dry to the touch.

Who it is for

For the modeler who is building a Zero in 1:48 with an open or clearly visible cockpit and wants the frames sharp on both sides. The package contains masking sheets according to the manufacturer's list; the kit, paints and glue are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.