Eduard CX403 - 1:72 Stirling Mk.IV masks

Eduard CX403 mask set – canopy painting masks for the Stirling Mk.IV model (Italeri) in 1:72 scale

Eduard CX403 is a set of self-adhesive 1:72 masks for painting the canopy framing and other glazing, and the wheel hubs, tailored to the Stirling Mk.IV model from Italeri. The masks are die-cut from yellow Kabuki masking paper, giving sharp edges without hand masking with tape. The base kit is not included.

What's in the box:

• Sheet of self-adhesive masks made of yellow Kabuki masking paper, die-cut for the canopy and other glazing and for the wheel hubs
• Mask placement instructions

Set specifications:

• Scale: 1:72
• Catalogue number: CX403
• Manufacturer: Eduard
• Dedicated kit: Stirling Mk.IV from Italeri
• Accessory type: canopy painting masks
• Material: yellow Kabuki masking paper, machine-cut

Self-adhesive painting masks – crisp canopy frame edges

Eduard masks are self-adhesive stencils die-cut from low-tack yellow Kabuki masking paper suited to delicate model surfaces. They cover the clear areas of the glazing and leave only the canopy framing exposed, so that after airbrushing you get sharp, even frame edges – hard to achieve when masking by hand with tape.

The recommended method is to apply the masks to clean, degreased glazing, press the edges down firmly and then airbrush the paint. Once the paint has dried, the masks are removed. The masks are intended for single use and should not be left on the model for a long time.

About the aircraft – Short Stirling:

The Short Stirling was the first British four-engine heavy bomber to enter RAF Bomber Command service during the Second World War. A distinctive feature was its limited wingspan, dictated by the dimensions of contemporary hangars, which lowered its operational ceiling. It was powered by Bristol Hercules radial engines and stood out for its tall, multi-strut undercarriage.

Because of its low ceiling the Stirling was more exposed to anti-aircraft fire and fighters, so it was gradually withdrawn from front-line raids on Germany. It was reassigned to glider towing, transport and supply-dropping, taking part in Operation Overlord and Market Garden. More than two thousand were built in several versions.

Original specifications (Short Stirling):

• Length: 26.59 m
• Wingspan: 30.20 m
• Height: 6.93 m
• Max takeoff weight: approx. 31,750 kg
• Crew: 7-8
• Powerplant: 4 x Bristol Hercules XI radial, 1,590 hp each
• Max speed: 454 km/h
• Ceiling: approx. 5,030 m
• Range: approx. 3,750 km
• Bomb load: up to 6,350 kg
• Production: 2,371 built (1940-1945)

About the manufacturer – Eduard:

Eduard is a Czech manufacturer of scale model kits and modelling accessories, established in 1989 and based in Obrnice. The company is widely recognised among aircraft modellers for its own 1:48 and 1:72 kits and for an extensive range of upgrade accessories: photo-etched parts, Brassin resin components, decals and painting masks. Eduard masks are die-cut from yellow Kabuki masking paper and designed for specific plastic kits, ensuring an accurate fit to the shape of the canopy and other details. The EX mask series covers hundreds of items dedicated both to Eduard kits and to kits from other manufacturers.