1:72 Lavochkin ULa-5 / LA-5UTI canopy airbrush mask /KVP

Canopy masking set 1:72 Lavochkin ULa-5 and La-5UTI

These are airbrush masks for the canopy glazing of a model of the two-seat trainer version of the Lavochkin La-5 fighter in 1:72 scale. It is not a kit or a part but an aid for painting. The masks are supplied pre-cut and self-adhesive, so there is no tracing of the frames onto masking tape and cutting them out with a scalpel. With the two-seat version this tells twice over, because the glazing is longer and there are more frames than on the single-seat machine. Check the extent of the set on the packaging.

The real subject

The La-5 was a Soviet single-seat fighter with a radial engine, built during the Second World War. A two-seat version with a lengthened canopy and a second seat was created from it for training, listed under the designation La-5UTI, or ULa-5. It is precisely the lengthened glazing that is the most conspicuous external difference from the combat version, and on a model it calls for careful work with the frames.

How to work with the masks

Wash the clear part and let it dry. Lift the masks off the backing with tweezers and, once laid on, press them down all the way around, above all where the frame changes direction. Spray in thin coats. On a canopy it pays to spray the interior shade first, so that the frame looks right from the inside as well, and only then the outer color. Remove the mask shortly after the paint has dried, pulling it off at a shallow angle. Wipe off any adhesive residue with a cotton bud moistened with water.

Who the set is for

• Builders of Soviet aircraft in 1:72 scale.
• Modelers who want clean, sharp frames on the long trainer canopy.
• Those who want to avoid cutting masks out of tape.
• Airbrush modelers working with thin coats of paint.

This is an accessory for painting. The kit, paints and glue are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.