1:48 H-34 Masks for SG 8783 MARINES

Masking for the H-34 helicopter in 1:48 scale

In the 1950s and 1960s the Sikorsky H-34 was one of the workhorses of helicopter aviation. It was powered by a radial engine mounted at an angle in the nose, which left the cabin free for cargo or troops, and the pilot's compartment sat high above it like a glazed bubble. That layout is exactly what makes the machine a puzzle for modelers: the glazing has a lot of frames and masking it by hand with tape takes longer than the painting itself.

The enclosed templates are cut exactly to the shape of the individual window panes, so all you have to do is transfer them onto the plastic part and press them down. That does away with measuring and with cutting on the model with a scalpel, where the surface is easily scored. The designation in the name refers to one selected Marine Corps machine that the set is prepared for.

How the templates are used

Degrease the surface beforehand and let it dry completely. Peel the template off the backing, position it by the frame and press the edges down with a toothpick or a wooden stick. Apply the paint in thin coats so that it does not run under the edge. Remove the template while the finish is still only tacky, pulling it at an angle to the surface.

• Pre-cut masking templates for 1:48 scale
• They follow the shape of the glazing of the H-34 helicopter
• They shorten the preparation before spraying and protect the surface of the model
• The helicopter model and paints are not included in the delivery

The set is useful even when you plan to show the machine with the doors open or with the engine cowlings removed, because masking the glazing then remains the only laborious part of the preparation. Any adhesive residue after removal comes off with a soft eraser or a cotton bud moistened in clean water; do not use solvents for this job.