1:72 MH53E Super Stallion Canopy, cabin window and wheel hub masking set (Italeri)

The real subject

The Sikorsky MH-53E Sea Dragon is a three-engine heavy helicopter of the US Navy, derived from the CH-53E Super Stallion. It serves for searching out and destroying naval mines and for carrying heavy loads. At first glance it is given away by its seven-blade main rotor and by the massive side tanks, which are substantially larger on this version than on its predecessor. The cabin has extensive glazing and the machine stands on retractable landing gear with wheels.

What the set contains

The package consists of pre-cut masking parts for the glazed areas of a model and for the wheel discs in 1:72 scale. The shape of each part corresponds to one panel or to one disc, so it sits in place without trimming and the frame of the glazing comes out equally wide around its whole perimeter. The cuts are adapted to the Italeri kit, and on a model of another brand the parts may fit only partly.

Usage tips

• Wash and degrease the glazing and the discs before sticking them on, as a mask does not hold on a greasy surface.
• Stick the mask on before spraying and press the edges down with a toothpick, so that paint does not run under them.
• The mask of a disc covers only its face, so paint the tire itself with a brush.
• Apply the paint in thin coats and take the mask off with tweezers at an angle to the surface.

Who it is for

The set suits modelers who want to manage the divided glazing of a large helicopter without cutting tape by hand. The package contains masks only. The model, paints, glue and decals are not part of it, unless stated otherwise.