Eduard Mask CX337, A6M2b, is intended for Tamiya’s recent Mitsubishi A6M2b Zero Fighter (Zeke) (Tamiya item no. 60780) in 1/72 scale. The package consists of one sheet of diecut masks for one model and a set of instructions. The masks are for the aircraft’s canopy and main wheels. The kit comes with a closed canopy (1 part) and open canopy (3 parts).

The masks may require careful cutting at some corner points to ensure they separate cleanly from the paper backing. Use a sharp hobby knife, preferably with a new blade. With the exception of the masks used in the center section of the canopy (the portion that slides open), all of the masks fit well within their panes.

The masks for the center portion were too large, requiring some careful cutting down to size. If your manual dexterity isn’t all that great, this is a nerve-wracking task—and it defeats the purpose of masks in the first place!

The masks for the main wheels, front portion of the canopy, and rear portion of the canopy fit well. I used liquid mask where two sections of masking met in the center of a pane to prevent any possible leakage/overspray. For the interior surfaces of the canopies, I masked off most sections with Tamiya masking tape and liquid mask.

I first sprayed Tamiya XF-71 Cockpit Green on the unmasked portions of the canopy. That’s the color you’ll see when looking closely at the inside of the canopy when the model is finished. I followed that with XF-12 Japanese Navy Grey, the color of the aircraft’s fuselage.

After the paint dried, I carefully removed the Eduard and Tamiya masking tape and liquid mask. I did not notice any difficulties or damage resulting from the masking. I did manage to damage the paint due to my clumsiness! The Eduard masks did not leave any adhesive residue. With the exception of the oversized panels in the center section, this is a good product.

Thank you to Eduard for the review sample and to IPMS USA for the opportunity to review this product.