1:72 A2D-1 Skyshark painting mask

The real subject

The A2D-1 Skyshark is an American carrier attack aircraft that followed on in shape from the proven Skyraider but was given a completely different powerplant and a pair of contra-rotating propellers on the nose. The trials were dogged by trouble and the machine was built only in small numbers; it never reached squadron service. That is precisely why it is a welcome subject: in a display case among the usual types it catches the eye at once.

What the set offers

Pre-cut masking pieces for painting the model in 1:72 scale. The modeler does not have to trace them or cut them by eye, which matters in a small scale, because the canopy frames are thin and an uneven cut shows on a finished model more than anything else. Which areas the set covers and which kit it is cut for are given in the manufacturer's instructions; it is worth checking before buying, as the shapes of the frames differ between individual releases.

Work tips

Clean and degrease the surface and only then lay the mask down, always before spraying. Move the piece with the tip of the tweezers, seat it dry and press it down from the center toward the edges so that no air is left underneath. Spray thinly and in two passes. Take the mask off as soon as the paint has become tacky, pulling it back at an angle. Remove any adhesive residue on the clear part with a cloth lightly dampened with water, not with thinner, which would dull the clear part.

Who it is for

For modelers who want sharp canopy frames without cutting tape by hand. The kit, paints and glue are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.