1:72 OV-10А Bronco BASIC

The real subject

The OV-10A Bronco is an American twin-engine aircraft for observation, fire control and light strikes. You will recognize it at first glance: a high wing, a pair of tail booms carrying a joined horizontal tail surface and between them a short nacelle with a tandem cabin. It is the cabin that matters for a modeler, because it is glazed almost all the way round, including the lower panels. Glazing of that size takes a long time to mask by hand and is thankless work, as every crooked edge shows on a finished model.

What the set solves

Masks cut in advance to the shape of the individual surfaces replace sticking tape on and trimming it directly on the model. The edges come out straight, the work is reduced and the clear part does not suffer from repeated cutting with a blade. The BASIC designation in the name distinguishes the extent of the set from a more generous form by the same supplier; exactly what it holds is given in the enclosed instructions. The name does not say which kit the set is built for, so check what it is intended for in the manufacturer's details on the packaging.

How to use the masks

They are stuck on before spraying, onto a clean, degreased and dry surface. Transfer a mask with pointed tweezers, lay it in place and press the edges down with a toothpick, so that no paint runs under them. Spray in thin coats; a heavy coat creates a step at the edge that stands out after unmasking. Take the mask off as soon as the paint has set, not after it has cured completely, because that is when the edge tears least. Remove any adhesive residue with a soft cloth.

• a set of adhesive masks in 1:72 scale
• subject: the OV-10A Bronco
• the BASIC designation of extent
• straight edges without trimming tape on the model
• stuck on before spraying, removed once the paint has set

Terms of supply

This is an accessory for a kit. The kit itself, paints and glue are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.