1:72 Mil Mi-8/Mi-17 Hip Helicopter Canopy + Wheels Paint Masks for HobbyBoss 87221/87208

The machine built in the greatest numbers

The helicopter of the Mil design bureau holds a position in the history of aviation that nobody else has: more examples of it were built than of any other rotary-wing aircraft and it still serves in dozens of countries. The basic version appeared at the beginning of the 1960s; the later development branch received more powerful powerplants, the tail rotor moved to the left side and a higher payload. The cargo compartment opens through two-leaf doors at the rear, thanks to which even a light vehicle fits inside.

Glazing that takes patience

The cabin has a domed nose made up of many panes, round bulged windows along the sides and further glass in the cargo compartment. Cutting that many shapes out of adhesive tape by hand is almost impossible at a reduction of 1:72, because the strips come out narrower than a millimeter. Cut films remove that problem, and the same sheet also contains rings for the tire treads of the landing gear, so the tires are sprayed without sanding the edges down.

A small format puts the emphasis on different things than large models: what matters is the transparency of the glass and the thinness of the frames, not the depth of the interior fit. In 1:32 and larger formats it would make sense to open the cargo doors and fit out the interior; here the result is judged by how cleanly the frame bounds the glass and how finely the rotor blades are rendered. Before applying, the surface is degreased and left to dry thoroughly, otherwise the film lifts in time and paint runs under its edge. The same principle applies to the rings for the treads, where the contact areas are the smallest.