1:72 IJN A6M5a Carrier Fighter Zero Model 52 (Mitsubishi / Early Production)

Mitsubishi A6M5a Zero Model 52 — early production 1:72 (FineMolds)

An injection-molded plastic kit of the Japanese carrier fighter Mitsubishi A6M5a Zero Model 52 in the early production form, in 1:72 scale from FineMolds. The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted, to be glued and painted. Check the exact contents of the box and the markings offered on the packaging.

The real subject

The A6M5 Model 52 was the most widespread and one of the later combat versions of the famous Zero fighter, deployed from 1943. Compared with the earlier A6M3 machines it received a new, shorter wing with rounded tips and heavier skinning, which allowed higher speeds in a dive. A characteristic recognition feature of the version was its modified exhausts with a so-called thrust effect. It was the early production machines of the Model 52 that still had a collector exhaust under the engine cowling, which tells them apart from the later batches. The Zero Model 52 became the mainstay of the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service fighter arm in the second half of the war.

Building and painting tips

Separate the parts from the sprues with a cutter and clean the gate marks up with a fine file. Glue with liquid modeling cement for plastic and apply a primer before painting. In 1:72 scale careful masking of the cockpit and thin application of paint with an airbrush pay off. Accentuate the panel lines gently with a wash and do not forget the typical markings of Japanese naval aviation.

Who the model is for

• Collectors of Japanese carrier fighters of the Second World War
• Anyone interested in the late combat versions of the Zero (Model 52)
• Modelers who collect aircraft in the space-saving 1:72 scale

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.