Eduard 1/72 EA-18G Masks
By Chris Banyai-Riepl
Overview
The new Hasegawa 1/72 EA-18G Growler kit has been popular with modelers, expanding the already nice Hasegawa Hornet lineup. Given the popularity of the subject, it is no surprise that we would start seeing aftermarket accessories for the kit, and Eduard was quick to release a canopy mask set for this model.
The Set
For those not familiar with the Eduard masks, these are pre-cut precision masks designed specifically for the selected kit. This means that you do need to make sure you get the right mask for the right kit, as a mask designed for the Tamiya P-51 might not fit a Hasegawa P-51. That said, since the Hasegawa EA-18G borrows heavily from their existing F/A-18F kit, chances are sets for either kit will fit. Still, it wouldn't hurt to make sure you get the Growler set for your EA-18G. The set provides masks for two areas: the canopy and the wheels. The wheel masks are easy, as they just cover up the wheel hub, making it easy to then airbrush the tires.
For the canopy, there are a few extra steps required. The EA-18G canopy is large and has minimal framing. To prevent paint running underneath creased masks, Eduard has engineered the masks to precisely cover the edges, but leave the center area clear. That center portion will need to be filled with liquid mask. The windscreen and main canopy are all split into right and left halves, so there will be some lining up to do. Once all that's done, though, spray away and you'll end up with perfect sharp edges to your clear parts.
Conclusion
The Eduard masks make quick work for complicated canopy masking. My thanks to Eduard for the review sample.