1:72 Mask E.E.Lightning F.2A/F.6 EXPERT (AIRFIX)

New Ware 1:72 mask set — English Electric Lightning F.2A and F.6, the EXPERT form

The highest step of the mask range for the model of the British supersonic fighter Lightning in the F.2A and F.6 versions, 1:72 scale. It holds self-adhesive, machine-cut masks with the widest extent the manufacturer runs for this airplane. It is neither a kit nor parts of a model, but an accessory used when spraying paint. The masks are cut for the Airfix kit.

What the highest step means in practice

The wider the extent of the masks, the more details can be sprayed instead of painted with a brush or transferred by a decal. That has two visible consequences: a sprayed area has no glossy film and no step, which a decal on a matte finish always gives away, and the shade matches exactly what is on the rest of the model. The price for that is longer work and the need to think the order of the colors out beforehand.

Practical advice

• Divide the work into stages by color and put the masks on gradually, not all at once.
• Carry the smallest masks on the tip of a damp toothpick, as tweezers crumple them easily.
• Before putting a mask on, make sure the base color is really dry; otherwise it will be torn away when the mask is removed.
• Store the rest of the sheet in a bag away from heat and light, as the adhesive then stays usable longer.

Who the set is for

• Competition modelers and builders for a display case who want the maximum of sprayed details.
• More experienced builders willing to put the time into multi-stage masking.
• Those for whom the lower steps of the range are not enough.

This is an accessory for the build, not a model. The kit, paints and glue are not included in the package.