I am going to give Bare Metal a shot for canopy masking, and inside the package, it says that only the “original” bare metal should be used for masking. Which I take to mean the chrome. What is your experience? Does it really matter?
The reason I ask is that I bought the matt aluminum version, and was hoping to use that. But, if it does not work well, I’ll for sure get the chrome stuff.
Thanks in advance for the advice!
I use the matte aluminum with success, the only issue is if I leave it on too long I get residue which can be removed ,but painstakingly.
Where did you pick it up? I got a roll from a car superstore, but it was thick and inflexible. Not to mention, when removing it didn’t just take a layer of paint, it nearly took the damn canopy with it? What specific stuff is it you use or ask for?
Keith
Keith - Got it at Hobbyland, Ft Wayne Indiana. This is the original Bare Metal Foil, one sheet comes in a big envelope package with instructions etc. Comes in Chrome, matte aluminum, gold, etc. Available through most big hobby sites through the web. Kind of expensive - about $4.00 to $5.00 a pop. The instructions explain masking techniques as well as finishing your model with a Natural Metal Surface.
I’m covering my Hasegawa Razorback with matt aluminum BMF. It is a time consuming process but well worth it. The key to success is to make sure that your surface is absolutely clean! BMF shows everything! Dust specs, poor surface prep, paint boo boos, etc. Use a fresh exacto blade and just use the weight of the knife to cut one or two panels at at time. Stick it on and trim the excess - I apply a Q tip to “set” the foil and conform it to contours, etc.
Good Luck!
Thanks for writing, crockett. I ended up getting impatient and called the Bare Metal foil company, and they said that the reason they recommend using the original is because it is more flexible, and therefore should conform better to the surface. So, maybe it’s not such a big deal, since you have had good sucess with it.
Boy, 5 bucks a sheet? What a deal. They are charging 8 out here in California - but I guess it’s my fault for paying it…
take care