Print Scale 48-036 Decal P-38 Lightning Part 1 Scale 1:48 for Aircraft Plastic model kit

Print Scale 48-036 Waterslide Decals are intended for 1/48 scale models of the Lockheed P-38 Lightning. This “Part 1” sheet provides four-to-six distinct elements per aircraft option—unit codes, serials, nose art, national insignia, and selected maintenance stenciling—organized for six WWII-era USAAF subjects.

The P-38 Lightning is a recognizable twin-boom fighter whose large code letters, tail numbers, and nose art often define the finished look of a model. The subjects in this set reflect a mix of camouflage and natural-metal style finishes shown in the instruction profiles, giving modelers several approaches for a 1/48 Lightning project.

For modelers, this sheet supports a detail-focused build: it includes prominent markings for the booms and nacelle along with smaller stencil data. Because some items span panel lines and curved areas, careful alignment and a smooth gloss base are recommended. Scale: 1/48 (also written as 1:48).

• Aircraft: Lockheed P-38 Lightning
• Variant / Family: P-38H and P-38J
• Scale: 1/48
• Product type: Waterslide decals
• Type of equipment: Aircraft
• Recommended kit: for Any / Universal
• Service / Subject country: United States (USAAF)
• Manufacturer: Print Scale
• Country of manufacture: Ukraine
• Material: Paper
• SKU: Print Scale 48-036

Included aircraft marking options

• P-38J, serial 42-67940, code “7F-M”, named “My Pig”; 485th FS, 370th FG. Finish note in the guide: Olive Drab over Neutral Gray.
• P-38J, serial 44-23511, code “HS-U”, named “Arkansas Traveler”; 495th FS, 367th FG. Finish note in the guide: overall Gloss Aluminum with a Matt Black anti-glare panel.
• P-38J, serial 44-23677, code “HS-A”, named “Little Buckaroo”; 492nd FS, 367th FG. Finish note in the guide: overall Gloss Aluminum with a Matt Black anti-glare panel.
• P-38H, serial 42-66682, aircraft number “161”, named “Screaming Kid”; 432nd FS, 475th FG. Finish note in the guide: Olive Drab over Natural Gray.
• P-38J, serial 42-67449, code “H5-Q”, named “Miss Mass”; 20th FG, shown reassigned to the 392nd FS, 367th FG. Finish note in the guide: Olive Drab over Natural Gray.
• P-38J, serial 43-28746, aircraft number “23”, named “Maloney’s Pony”; 27th FS, 1st FG. Finish note in the guide: overall Gloss Aluminum with a Matt Black anti-glare panel.

This decal sheet is part of the Print Scale line and is filed under Decals and Waterslide Decals. For a project base, see 1/48 scale aircraft model kits and the main aircraft model kits collection.

FAQ

How many aircraft options are provided on this Part 1 sheet?

The instruction guide shows six separate P-38 Lightning marking options, each with its own combination of codes, serials, and nose art.

Does the set include placement guidance for stencils and smaller markings?

Yes. The instruction artwork includes a placement-style diagram for selected small markings on the airframe, helping you position common service data consistently across a 1/48 build.

Do the profiles show both camouflage and natural-metal style finishes?

They do. Several subjects are illustrated in Olive Drab over a gray underside, while others are shown in a natural metal-style finish with a darker anti-glare panel.

What helps with alignment on the twin booms and large code letters?

Dry-fitting the major markings, using panel lines as reference points, and applying each side in stages can reduce misalignment. Let large decals settle and dry before adding adjacent items.

Are there any small historical symbols on the sheet beyond standard US national insignia?

The sheet includes small period-style graphics as printed alongside the main markings. If you display or ship finished models internationally, it may be useful to check any local rules that apply to certain historical symbols.