1:72 Lockheed F-80. USA & Europe Part 1

Print Scale 1:72 Lockheed F-80, USA and Europe, part one

A sheet of waterslide decals in 1:72 scale for models of the Lockheed F-80 jet fighter. According to the name it focuses on machines operating in the United States and in Europe, and it is the first part of a series. The set contains decals only; the model and the paints are not included. Check which particular machines are covered and how many schemes the sheet offers against the illustration of the sheet on the packaging.

The real subject

The Lockheed F-80 Shooting Star was the first American jet fighter to enter proper series service. It has a straight wing, a simple aerodynamic fuselage shape with air intakes in the sides and a turbojet with a centrifugal compressor. It served as both a fighter and a fighter-bomber, and its two-seat trainer derivative went on to become one of the most widespread training aircraft of all. A number of machines flew in a natural metal finish with no camouflage, with bold unit color bands on the nose, the wingtips and the drop tanks.

Decals on a polished metal surface

An F-80 model is often finished as natural metal, and that is the most demanding base of all for decals. Never sand metallic paint; let it cure properly and cover it with a thin layer of gloss varnish compatible with the paint you used. Lay the decals onto a well-moistened spot and blot the water away with a towel from the edge rather than by running over the film, so that no air gets trapped under it. Dose the softener sparingly, as every ripple shows on a glossy surface. Choose a gloss or satin finish for the final clear coat as well, because a matte one would kill the metal look.

Who the sheet is for

• Anyone interested in the beginnings of jet aviation in 1:72 scale
• Modelers who build machines in a natural metal finish
• Those who want to assign their model a specific unit and period
• Collectors of themed series who buy the individual parts