Print Scale 72-499 Decal Lockheed P-38 Lightning Shark Mouth Scale 1:72 for Aircraft Plastic model kit

Print Scale 72-499 Waterslide Decals are designed for 1/72 scale aircraft models of the Lockheed P-38 Lightning, featuring subjects documented with distinctive shark mouth and nose art style presentations. The sheet provides four marking options tied to specific Lightning variants and serials, suitable for WWII-era USAAF modeling projects.

The P-38 Lightning served in multiple roles including long-range fighter and photo reconnaissance, and its twin-boom layout creates prominent placement areas for unit markings and nose art elements. The options in this set represent both reconnaissance and fighter configurations, offering variety while staying within a single aircraft family.

For modelers, the set is listed as Any / Universal for 1/72 kits. Because Lightning variants can differ in details (reconnaissance camera installations, nacelle features, and other configuration points), it helps to match your kit to the variant noted in the chosen option (for example F-4C-1-LO or P-38H-1). Large mouth graphics and nose art benefit from careful positioning and a smooth gloss surface, so this sheet is most suitable for experienced builders. Scale note: 1/72 (also written as 1:72).

• Aircraft: Lockheed P-38 Lightning
• Variant / Family: P-38F / P-38H and F-4C (photo reconnaissance) as listed
• Scale: 1/72
• Product type: Waterslide decals
• Type of equipment: for aircraft plastic model kit
• Recommended kit: for Any / Universal
• Service / Subject country: United States (USAAF)
• Manufacturer: Print Scale
• Country of manufacture: Ukraine
• Material: Paper
• SKU: Print Scale 72-499

Included aircraft marking options

• Lockheed F-4C-1-LO (P-38 reconnaissance family), S/No 4267119, “The Florida Gator”; 22nd PRS, 7th PG, 8th AF, Mount Farm (UK), 1944. Name attribution noted in records: Lt. Edward W. Durst.
• Lockheed P-38H-1, serial 42-66905, “Japanese Sandman II”, number 33; 39th FS, 35th FG, 5th AF. Pilot name noted in documentation: Lt. Richard Eugene “Snuffy” Smith.
• Lockheed P-38F-5-LO, S/No 42-12623/16; 39th FS, 35th FG, USAAF, Port Moresby (New Guinea), early 1943. Pilot name noted in documentation: Capt. Robert L. Faurot.
• Lockheed P-38H-1, serial 42-66532; 39th FS, 35th FG, Tsili Tsili, September 1943. Commander name noted in documentation: Maj. Tom Lynch (CO).

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 1/72 scale aircraft model kits and complements projects within the aircraft model kits collection.

FAQ

How many marking options are included in Print Scale 72-499?

This set includes four marking options for the Lockheed P-38 Lightning family, each identified by variant and serial.

Does the sheet include both reconnaissance and fighter Lightnings?

Yes. One option is listed as an F-4C-1-LO reconnaissance subject, and the others are listed as P-38F/P-38H fighter variants.

Will these decals work with any 1/72 P-38 kit?

The set is listed as Any / Universal, but the best match comes from choosing a kit that represents the same variant (for example P-38H-1 vs P-38F-5-LO) and checking the placement guide against your kit’s surface layout.

Are these markings difficult to apply?

Large mouth graphics and multi-part nose art can require careful alignment. Many modelers use a gloss surface, apply setting solution as needed, and seal the decals with a clear coat after drying.

Do I need to paint the mouth and then add decals, or is it decal-only?

This depends on how the sheet is printed and how your kit is prepared. Review the included instructions to decide whether a painted base color is recommended under the mouth elements for your chosen option.