Print Scale 48-228 Decal 1:48 A6M Zero-Sen Top Pilots Part 2 The complete set 1.5 leaf

Print Scale 48-228 waterslide decals are intended for 1/48 scale aircraft models of the Mitsubishi A6M Zero-sen, covering both A6M2 Model 21 and A6M3 Model 32 subjects. This Part 2 set focuses on early-war style identification markings with distinct tail codes, unit text blocks, and stripe elements suitable for Pacific theater aircraft from 1942.

Scale: 1/48 (also written as 1:48). The sheet provides aircraft-specific code sets and colored bands designed to integrate with standard A6M paint and weathering approaches without relying on pre-printed camouflage.

The A6M series served as a carrier-capable fighter and operated from both carrier decks and forward airfields. Early-war marking practice often combined visible tail codes with unit identifiers and contrasting fuselage or tail band elements, which makes these aircraft practical subjects for historically styled display builds.

For modelers, this release supports multiple distinct airframes without mixing parts between options. Several schemes use long stripe segments and repeated code characters, so careful measurement and alignment are recommended. The set is a good match for intermediate and advanced builders working with any compatible 1/48 A6M2/A6M3 plastic model kit.

• Aircraft: Mitsubishi A6M Zero-sen
• Variant / Family: A6M2 Model 21 and A6M3 Model 32
• Scale: 1/48
• Product type: Waterslide decals
• Type of equipment: for aircraft plastic model kit
• Recommended kit: for any compatible 1/48 Mitsubishi A6M2/A6M3 kit
• Service / Subject country: Japanese naval aviation (Japan)
• Manufacturer: Print Scale
• Country of manufacture: Ukraine
• Material: Paper
• SKU: Print Scale 48-228

Included aircraft marking options

• A6M2 Model 21, code X-182, 3rd Kokutai, Poeletti (Penfui), Timor, March 1942; markings associated with Lt. Zenjiro Miyano.
• A6M2 Model 21, code V-158, Tainan Kokutai, Denpasar airfield, Bali, March 1942; markings associated with FPO2c Susumi Ishihara.
• A6M2 Model 21, code V-141 with Houkoku-439 inscription blocks, Tainan Kokutai, Denpasar airfield, Bali, March 1942; markings associated with FPO2c Yoshisuke Arita.
• A6M2 Model 21, code V-172, construction number 5784, Tainan Kokutai, Lakunai, Rabaul, August 1942; markings associated with FPO1c Saburo Sakai.
• A6M3 Model 32, code Q-102 with Houkoku-872 inscription blocks, construction number 3030, 2nd Kokutai, Buna, Papua New Guinea, August 1942; markings associated with FCPO Kazu-o Tsunoda.
• A6M2 Model 21, code V-138, Tainan Kokutai, Lakunai, Rabaul, August 1942; markings associated with Lt. (jg) Jun-ichi Sasai.
• A6M2 Model 21, code V-103, construction number 3647, Tainan Kokutai, Lakunai, Rabaul, September 1942; markings associated with FCPO Tora-ichi Takatsuka.

Additional contents include stripe/band elements matched to each option and a technical stencil placement diagram to support consistent airframe detailing.

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

FAQ

Does this Part 2 set cover both A6M2 and A6M3 variants?

Yes. The options include multiple A6M2 Model 21 aircraft and one A6M3 Model 32 option, each with its own code and band layout.

Are the unit inscription blocks included for the Houkoku-marked options?

Yes. The sheet includes the Houkoku-related text blocks shown in the guide for the relevant aircraft options.

Are technical stencils included or only the main identifiers?

Selected technical stencils are included, supported by a placement diagram, alongside the main tail codes and stripe elements.

Will these decals fit any 1/48 Zero-sen kit?

They are intended for 1/48 A6M kits. As surface detail and panel geometry can vary by manufacturer, test-fitting long stripe segments and larger code elements before final application is recommended.

How many different aircraft schemes can be built from this sheet?

The set provides markings for seven distinct aircraft options, numbered 1 through 7 in the instruction artwork.