1:72 Q1W1 Tokai / Lorna

Eduard 1:72 Q1W1 Tokai / Lorna masking set

Precisely shaped self-adhesive masks for models of the Japanese Kyushu Q1W1 Tokai anti-submarine aircraft (Allied reporting name Lorna) in 1:72 scale. The masks are die-cut from kabuki masking film and follow the shape of the frames of the cockpit glazing; the set usually also contains masks for the wheel hubs. It is not a paint or a kit but an accessory that makes spraying easier.

The real subject

The Kyushu Q1W1 Tokai was a Japanese twin-engine patrol and anti-submarine aircraft of the Second World War, deployed by the navy to hunt submarines. The Allies gave it the reporting name Lorna. It was a fairly unusual machine with a glazed nose and extensive cockpit glazing, which makes masking a lengthy job.

Use and tips

• Lift the mask carefully off the backing (ideally with tweezers) and press it onto the frame of the glazing.
• Press the edges down carefully so that paint cannot run underneath.
• Spray the glazing first with the interior color and then with the final color of the fuselage.
• Remove the masks shortly after the paint has dried, while the film is not yet fully cured.

Who the set is for

• Modelers who want sharp transitions on the canopy frames without cutting tape by hand.
• Builders who are bothered by the lengthy masking of busy glazing.
• Those who want to save time and raise the quality of the spraying.

The set contains only masking film, not paint, glue or the model itself.