1:72 P-47D Bubbletop - interior 3D decals for Tamiya kit

The real subject

The P-47 Thunderbolt is an American single-seat fighter of the Second World War, massive and heavy, with a roomy cockpit. The designation Bubbletop is used for the later form with the lowered fuselage spine and the teardrop all-round glazing that gives a view in every direction. Because the canopy is not divided by frames, the cockpit really can be seen into, and the interior matters more than on the earlier shape of the aircraft.

What the set contains

Color three-dimensional interior parts prepared for the Tamiya kit in 1:72 scale. The graphics are layered and slightly raised, so that dials, switches, panel labels and the seat belts stand out above the surrounding surface. It does away both with painting instruments with a brush and with assembling delicate photo-etched pieces.

Application

First spray the cockpit with the base color and let it dry completely; the surface under the parts has to be smooth, clean and degreased. Before applying them, check in the manufacturer's instructions whether the parts are self-adhesive. The method of application differs between ranges and is given in the instructions supplied with the set. Separate the individual pieces with a sharp blade, move them with tweezers and press them down with a soft tool so that they seat into the corners and onto the panel edges.

Who it is for

For the modeler who is building the version with the teardrop canopy and wants legible instruments in a cockpit that is clearly on view. The work takes about an hour, but the parts are small, so fine tweezers and good lighting help. The set does not contain a kit, paints or glue, unless stated otherwise.