Print Scale 48-165 Decal Mitsubishi Zero A6M2 - A6M3 Part 2 Scale 1:48 for Aircraft Plastic model kit

Print Scale 48-165 waterslide decals are intended for 1/48 scale aircraft models of the Mitsubishi A6M “Zero”, covering both A6M2 Model 21 and A6M3 Model 32 subjects. This Part 2 set combines aircraft identification markings with a dedicated selection of technical stencils, supporting accurate presentation of airframe details on a WWII-era Japanese naval fighter model.

The included subjects reflect carrier- and land-based use in the Pacific theater time frame, with markings suitable for different unit contexts and finishes. The decal artwork includes national insignia (hinomaru), codes, and smaller service markings intended to complement typical A6M2/A6M3 paint and weathering approaches.

The A6M series is recognizable for its clean airframe lines and large, high-contrast national markings. Differences between the A6M2 and A6M3 family (including the Model 32 wing form) make this a practical sheet when you want a historically consistent set of markings aligned to specific periods and configurations.

For modelers, this set works well with most 1/48 Zero kits and is best approached with careful surface preparation and a gloss coat before application. Because the sheet combines prominent markings with multiple small stencil items, it is typically more comfortable for intermediate to advanced builders.

• Aircraft: Mitsubishi A6M “Zero”
• Variant / Family: A6M2 Model 21 and A6M3 Model 32
• Scale: 1/48 (also written as 1:48)
• Product type: Waterslide decals
• Type of equipment: Aircraft
• Recommended kit: for any 1/48 Mitsubishi A6M2/A6M3 Zero plastic model kit (universal fit)
• Service / Subject country: Imperial Japanese Navy (Japan)
• Manufacturer: Print Scale
• Country of manufacture: Ukraine
• Material: Paper
• SKU: Print Scale 48-165

Included aircraft marking options

• A6M2 Model 21, aircraft code BII-124, carrier-based Mitsubishi-built Zero associated with the Hiryu air group, February 1942 (Darwin operation period).
• A6M3 Model 32 (“Hamp”), tail code Tai-180, land-based aircraft of Tainan Kokutai, documented as associated with NAP 1/c Takeo Tanimizu, September 1944.
• A6M2 Model 21, code 2-2-103, Hiyo air group aircraft used in a land-based detachment from Rabaul during Operation I-Go, April 1943; field-applied dark green blotches over the original finish, with documented variations in the presence/absence of white fuselage hinomaru borders.

In addition to the three aircraft options, the sheet includes a numbered technical stencils selection with a placement-style guide, suitable for refining the airframe presentation on 1/48 A6M2/A6M3 builds.

This decal sheet is part of the Print Scale product line and belongs to the Decals and Waterslide Decals categories. It is intended for use with 1/48 scale aircraft model kits and complements projects in the aircraft model kits collection.

FAQ

Which Zero variants are covered in this set?

The marking options are provided for A6M2 Model 21 and A6M3 Model 32 aircraft, allowing you to build either variant depending on your kit selection.

Does the sheet include technical stencils or only main markings?

It includes both: primary aircraft identifiers (codes and national markings) and a separate technical stencil selection supported by a placement-style guide.

Are there options for different hinomaru border styles?

One of the included subjects is documented with variations in the presence or absence of white borders on the fuselage hinomaru, allowing you to match the version shown in your reference approach.

Is this set compatible with any 1/48 A6M kit?

It is listed as universal and can be applied to most 1/48 A6M2/A6M3 Zero kits, provided the kit represents the correct variant and tail/marking layout for your chosen option.