One of the most handy things to come down the pike are masking sets. These are particularly handy for those of us who generally don't do such a hot job of standard masking techniques.

This particular set is for the 1/32 Academy F-18 and is the most complete I've ever seen. Leading Edge wanted to get into the masking business and this is their first set.

The set is for both the single and twin seat versions of the F-18 You get three sheets of standard mask, two sets of laser cut card masks for the wheel wells and a set of foam masks (the first I've ever seen) for the wheel wells and the intakes. The standard masks include wheel masks as well as masks for around the gear wells.

The instructions are most complete, noting which part of the masks should be aligned and attached first. The canopy portions have a thin outer edge mask that covers the gasket lines, and there is a larger section than then fills the rest of the framed area. Walkway masks are also part of the set. One applies the walkway section, positions the mask around it and then removes the walkway area, providing a cleanly masked area, ready to paint.

I have not had the opportunity to test how these work as of yet, but that is going to be done soon and I'll give you an update on how the well masks work. This is a superb set and is one that I know you will find to be most helpful when doing your next big Hornet.

Review sheet courtesy Leading Edge Decals. Thanks for your support

June 2008

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