Print Scale 48-223 Decal 1:48 A6M Zero-Sen Top Pilots Part 1 The complete set 1.5 leaf

Print Scale 48-223 waterslide decals are designed for 1/48 scale aircraft models of the Japanese Navy A6M Zero in early-war service. This Part 1 set focuses on aircraft identities documented across 1940–1942 and provides a mix of tail codes, fuselage bands, and national markings suitable for several distinct finishes.

The A6M series was used from land bases and aircraft carriers, and early-period schemes often feature clear code systems and unit identifiers alongside the standard national insignia. The options in this sheet cover multiple locations in East Asia and the Pacific region within a short historical timeframe, presented as marking references rather than narrative history.

For modelers, this set helps reproduce early Zero layouts without complex masking, particularly for multi-color fuselage bands and code groups. The package also includes a technical stencil layout shown in the instruction sheets, which is typically easiest for intermediate to advanced builders who prefer step-by-step placement and careful alignment on curved fuselage areas.

• Aircraft: Mitsubishi A6M Zero (Zero-sen)
• Variant / Family: A6M2 Model 11 and A6M2 Model 21 (A6M family)
• Scale: 1/48
• Product type: Waterslide decals
• Type of equipment: Aircraft
• Recommended kit: for Any / Universal
• Service / Subject country: Japan (Imperial Japanese Navy)
• Manufacturer: Print Scale
• Country of manufacture: Ukraine
• Material: Paper
• SKU: Print Scale 48-223

Included aircraft marking options

• A6M2 Model 11 “3-165”, 12th Kokutai, Hankow, China, September 1940 (associated with ACPO Koshiro Yamashita).
• A6M2 Model 11 “3-163”, 12th Kokutai, Hankow, China, September 1940 (associated with APO2c Tsutomo Iwai).
• A6M2 Model 11 “9-182”, 14th Kokutai fighter hikotai, Hanoi, French Indochina, October 1940 (associated with Lt Mitsugu Kofukada).
• A6M2 Model 11 “3-173”, 12th Kokutai, Hankow, China, March 1941 (associated with APO2c Hideo Oishi).
• A6M2 Model 21 “AI-158”, Akagi, Operation AI (Pearl Harbor Raid), December 1941 (associated with FPO1c Masao Taniguchi).
• A6M2 Model 21 “BI-150”, Soryu, Operation AI (Pearl Harbor Raid), December 1941 (associated with FPO1c Ki-ichi Oda).
• A6M2 Model 21 “X-108”, 3rd Kokutai, Takao, Taiwan, December 1941 (associated with Lt Tamotsu Yokoyama).
• A6M2 Model 21 “EII-102”, Zuikaku, Operation AI (Pearl Harbor Raid), December 1941 (associated with F1c Tetsuzo Iwamoto).
• A6M2 Model 21 “S-171, Houkoku-437”, Chitose Kokutai fighter hikotai, Wake Island, April 1942 (associated with FPO3c Hideo Watanabe).
• A6M2 Model 21 “F-108”, 4th Kokutai, Lae, New Guinea, March 1942 (associated with FPO1c Hiroyoshi Nishizawa).

Additional marking information

The instruction sheets include a technical stencil placement diagram for the aircraft shown. This is useful for planning application order, especially when stencils overlap access panels or sit close to fuselage bands and code markings.

This decal set is part of the Print Scale range and belongs to the Decals and Waterslide Decals categories. For a matching project, browse 1/48 scale aircraft model kits and the main aircraft model kits collection.

FAQ

Which Zero variants are included in this Part 1 set?

The marking options shown in the instruction cover A6M2 Model 11 and A6M2 Model 21 aircraft within the A6M family.

Are the fuselage bands and code numbers included as decals?

Yes. The sheet includes code groups and band elements used in the listed options, intended to reduce masking work for multi-color stripes.

Does the set include technical stencils?

Yes. A technical stencil placement diagram is provided, and the decal sheets include stencil items for a more complete exterior finish.

Is this compatible with any 1/48 A6M kit?

The set is listed as universal for 1/48 scale. Minor placement adjustments may be needed depending on the specific kit’s panel lines and surface detail.

What is the recommended application sequence for complex markings?

Many builders apply main national markings and large bands first, then add codes and smaller items, and finish with stencils to keep alignment consistent and reduce handling of freshly applied decals.