Print Scale 48-260 Decal P-38 Lightning in Bare Metal Part 1 Scale 1:48 for Aircraft Plastic model kit

Print Scale 48-260 waterslide decals are designed for 1/48 scale aircraft models of the Lockheed P-38 Lightning in a bare metal finish. This Part 1 set focuses on a single documented P-38L option and includes the main identification markings plus technical stenciling for a complete exterior appearance.

The P-38 Lightning was a twin-engine USAAF fighter used in multiple theaters during World War II. Bare metal aircraft finishes highlight surface detail and panel work, making accurate insignia sizing, code placement, and small servicing markings especially noticeable on a finished model.

For modelers, this sheet supplies national markings, code elements, and illustrated nose art components, supported by a technical stencil layout shown in the instruction. The product is listed as universal for 1/48 scale P-38 plastic model kits; careful planning is recommended due to the combination of larger graphics and numerous small stencils.

• Aircraft: Lockheed P-38 Lightning
• Variant / Family: P-38L-5-LO
• Scale: 1/48
• Product type: Waterslide decals
• Type of equipment: Aircraft
• Recommended kit: for Any / Universal
• Service / Subject country: United States Army Air Forces (USA)
• Manufacturer: Print Scale
• Country of manufacture: Ukraine
• Material: Paper
• SKU: Print Scale 48-260

Included aircraft marking options

• P-38L-5-LO, 36th FS, 8th FG, USAAF, Le Shima, 1945.

Additional marking information

The decal sheet includes nose art elements and individual crew name blocks, along with a technical stencil set. The instruction provides a placement guide to help align small servicing marks around access panels and the boom/fuselage areas typical of the P-38 layout.

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

FAQ

Is this set intended specifically for a bare metal P-38 finish?

Yes. The product theme is a bare metal P-38 Lightning, and the markings are designed to match that style of aircraft presentation.

Does the sheet include nose art and crew name markings?

Yes. The decal sheet includes illustrated nose art components and crew name blocks in addition to the main identifiers and national insignia.

Which P-38 variant does the marking option represent?

The included option is presented as a P-38L-5-LO in the instruction, so a 1/48 kit representing a late-series P-38L is the most direct match.

Are technical stencils included?

Yes. The set includes technical stencils, and the instruction shows a placement guide for the airframe.

Any tips for decal application over metallic finishes?

Many modelers apply decals over a smooth gloss clear layer on top of the metallic paint to reduce silvering, then seal with a final clear coat according to the desired sheen.