1:35 Leclerc series 2 - Tamiya

Leclerc series 2 1:35 wheel masking stencil (Quickwheel)

This is a flexible die-cut masking stencil intended for models of the French Leclerc series 2 tank in 1:35 scale. It is not a kit or a set of wheels, but an aid that spares the modeler the laborious hand masking of the rubber tire bands of the road wheels.

How the mask works

The wheel is slid into the cutout and seats against the flexible material of the stencil. The raised lips cover the metal rim and protect the rubber tire band from overspray. The wheels are sprayed dark first, the stencil is laid on once that has dried and the vehicle color is applied with an airbrush. The masks can be used repeatedly.

The real subject

The Leclerc is a French main battle tank; series 2 brought a range of modernizations to its equipment and protection. The vehicle runs on road wheels with rubber tire bands.

Use and tips

• Do not stretch the stencil, so it keeps the shape of its cutouts.
• Press the edges against the model with a blunt point or a skewer.
• Apply thin coats and avoid spraying twice over at the edges of the mask.
• Suited mainly to an airbrush; wash the mask after use and put it away.

Who it is for

• Builders of modern French tracked equipment in 1:35 scale.
• Those who want clean wheel tire bands without lengthy masking.

The contents are the masking stencil alone. Paints, the model and the wheels are not included in the package.