Leading Edge Models

1/32 F-18A,B,C,D paint masking set

product # M32.001 for Academy kit $7.00

Review by Steve Bamford on June 9 2008

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This new masking set from Leading Edge Models sets a whole new standard for masking sets. 

The set includes vinyl masks for;

  • The canopy (including canopy frame brace found on some newer F-18D's)

  • Canopy masks for single seater

  • Canopy masks for 2 seater

  • Wing walks

  • Nose gun metal gun blast panel  

  • CF-18 spot light mask

  • Wheels and tires

  • Exhaust cans

  • Nose gear area for masking inside of gearbay

  • Main gear area for masking inside of gearbay

  • Louvered vents by wingwalk

  • Ladder bay storage area

  • Antenna panel on underside in front of nosegear bay

  • Round panels under wings

  • Underwing Flap hinge Nav Lights masks

  • Nose cone

  • Nav light masks

You also get foam pieces to help mask the;

  • intake opening

  • nosegear bay 

  • maingear bays

You also get card pieces to help mask the;

  • nosegear bay 

  • maingear bays

  • Ladder bay

Wow....I think I identified them all.  This is one highly complete set.  The masks peel off the backing very easily and they look thick enough to avoid problems with folding over on themselves etc but they are thin enough to be very easy to work with.

Click on images below to see larger images

  

  

The 2 pages of instructions are clear and are done in the classic Leading Edge Models style, well laid out and simple to follow after about a minute of study.  This set of masks raises the bar to a whole new level for other companies to follow.

This set will also available in 1/48 and 1/72 in the coming weeks.

Steve

I would like to thank Leading Edge Models for providing me with this review sample.  You can order this item directly from their website.

Photos and text © by Steve Bamford