Global Scale Modeller

Probably noob question but what's used for models, gloss or matte varnish?
I'm confused as I usually do matte but I saw some vids of Russian tanks and gloss was used...

Depends on the finish you are looking for.

I use gloss for decals and weathering but finish with a final coat of Matt.

I am also quite new to scale modelling and from what I have seen and experienced it goes as follows.

Coat of Gloss before and after decals, do your relevant weathering then finish with matt/flat clear coat to lock in the weathering and dull up the shine from the gloss.

The more experienced modellers may correct me but I believe the above method is what is classed as "Standard" at least for planes.

A lot of the time I would

Gloss, apply decals, gloss then do filters and pin washes, satin cote and then apply pigments/mud (heavy stuff) and finish. I think this applies more to modern armour because they have a little shine but it is personal preference.

Lego wrote:A lot of the time I would

Gloss, apply decals, gloss then do filters and pin washes, satin cote and then apply pigments/mud (heavy stuff) and finish. I think this applies more to modern armour because they have a little shine but it is personal preference.

More or less the same for WWII aircraft too or finished with a satin coat. Some jets tend to be quite shinny so finish of with a gloss coat.

generally its clear under and over decals
from there it depends on the finish you want
from super high gloss finishes that get polished up for sports cars to no shine at all on brick of buildings
for tanks id say satin or matt