Barracudacals 1/48 Stencil Decals
By Chris Banyai-Riepl
One of the simplest ways to improve the realism of your model is through adding the ubiquitous stencils found on every aircraft. Often times, though, these stencils are not included in the kit decals, or are incomplete. Finding a good set of stencil decals to complete your model can be quite challenging, but Barracudacals is changing that with their latest releases.
48-001 BAC Lightning F1/F1A/F2/F3 Stencils
The Airfix Lightning in 1/48 is an impressive kit, and there are a great many great marking schemes for the plane. While the plastic is quite good in the Airfix kit, the decals leave something to be desired. This sheet rectifies this, while making it as easy as possible for the modeler. The decals are numbered to match those found in the Airfix kit, so all you have to do is follow the kit instructions. In addition to the exterior decals, this sheet includes cockpit markings and missile markings. The quality is quite good, with excellent density and color. With a price of only $7.95, this sheet is well worth the money.
48-002 Spitfire Mk I through VI Stencils
This sheet includes two complete sets of stencils for use on any 1/48 Spitfire kit, from a Mk. I through to a Mk. VI. Two sets are included because there are not many to begin with, which is good for the modeler, as you won’t be spending three days adding several hundred small stencils. The decals themselves are nicely printed, both thin and crisp. The vast majority of them are printed in black, but there are some in color. Overall these will make a great addition to your two favorite Spitfire models, especially for a price of only $4.95.
My thanks to Barracudacals for the review samples. Visit their website for more information.