Montex have released a Maxi Mask set for the excellent Hobby Boss 1/32 F-84E Thunderjet [kit no 83207]. Included are masks for both the inside and outside of the canopy, national insignia codes and tail stripes. Markings are for two USAF aircraft.

Background:

Paint masks are a good way to go to achieve more realistic look to markings and national insignia. By using your choice of paints you can achieve the level of weathering and finish that is more in keeping with the rest of the finished model. Highly weathered models can look a little odd with brightly coloured decals. Montex have created an expanding line of masks to help you to create a more authentic finish. Montex offer three levels of masks:

Mini mask - contain masks for painting canopies and wheels;
Maxi mask - contain masks for painting canopies, wheels, stencils for distinctive paintings: national emblems and tactical and functional symbols (bows, crosses, stars, letters, numbers, chevrons etc.)
Super mask - contain masks for painting canopies, wheels, stencils for distinctive paintings based on photos and other primary sources. Super Mask series also contains colour air plane drawings in four projections depicting the placement of the paintings.

1/32 F-84E Thunderjet Maxi masks
First impressions is how large the masks are for national markings and “USAF” that are used on the wings. Even though the markings are for a F-84E masks are included for the later multi framed green house canopy. The masks re produce the marking found in the Hobby Boss kit, no 83207. Markings included are for:
-F-84E "SANDY" 9th FBS, 49th FBW, Korea 1951.
-F-84E-25, 8th FBS, Flown by Lt. Donald James. 1951

Contents:

Contained in the zip sealed transparent bag is:
-5 x set of grey masks with national insignia, markings and canopy.
-1 x set of black masks for the canopy.
-1 x mask guide.

Before you start it's well worth going over to the Montex website to fully acquaint yourself on how to get the most from these masks. The tutorials are very helpful. There are no placement instructions just follow the placement guide in the instructions of the Hobby Boss kit no 83207. The grey coloured markings masks include:

Grey coloured masks include:
-4 x star and bar
-2 x “USAF”
-4 x large code numbers
-4 x smaller codes
-4 x masks for background colour of the smaller codes.
-1 x set of masks for the interior of the canopy.
Numerous stripes for the tail decoration.

The black coloured masks include:
-1 x set of masks for the green house framework of the canopy.
-1x set of masks for the canopy frame.

The vinyl mask material have a completely different feel and look to masks made from Kabuki tape . Before you apply the masks get a feel for them first by using the masks for the title of the subject. The backing paper overlaps the masks themselves slightly. Use a sharp knife in the corner of the sheet to separate the two layers and carefully peel away the backing with your fingers. It occurs to me it might be possible to use the positive and negative parts of the mask to double the number of markings you can use, if you are careful. Follow the on-line instructions to help with placement and using multi part masks.

Conclusions:

Montex are expanding their range of masks to help you to create a more authentic finish to your model. Although they will take a little more work and time compared to applying decals, I am sure they will be well worth it. Take a look at the finished models on the Montex website. Really looking forward to using these masks on my next build. Very nicely done Montex.