Commerical Canopy Masks

jfink,
I think that the pre-cut masks would be a great idea, but the possibility of difficulty of placing them and variances in framework dimensional accuracy from kit to kit would appear to be harder than it needs to be.
Honestly, the easiest and cheapest way to get fantastic results the first time, every time is to mask with Bare Metal Foil. It conforms to any curvature (or just use a couple of pieces), is thinner than any other type of tape, cuts and trims very easily to allow razor sharp edges.
Plus, you can use it for your car models or for bare metal finishes for aircraft.
If you haven't tried it, get some - you'll love it.
Cheers'
LeeTree

I have used the Black Magic masks twice. They're pretty quick and easy. Some minor triming may be required. The biggest problem I had was on severe compound curves, like turrets. The masks would not lay down and/or stretched. I finally resorted to using the Black Magic mask as a master and cutting a new mask out of Tamiya tape. Follow the directions or the masks will be extremely tacky. I've heard of people actually pulling the canopies off the model when they try to remove the masks.

This was before I found about bare metal foil on this forum though. I'm going to try that next time.

Jim

Try True Details' Fast Masks. i haven't used 'em yet but good reviews led me to buy sets for my kits. To get them, try hobby shops or even ebay. =)
~~~MarkY