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Inspiring New Guide Models the A6M Zero in Various Kits and Scales

Coming soon from Fonthill Media and author Steven ‘Grizzly’ Desmet is Second World War Aircraft in Scale: Mitsubishi A6M Zero

Here we will build the iconic Second World War Japanese propeller plane, the Mitsubishi A6M Zero, in four different scales and types, using a range of modelling brands including Eduard, ICM, Tamiya and Hasegawa. Additional options, either by scratchbuilding or using aftermarket pieces, are elaborately explained throughout the building process. For modellers of every age and skill level, this is a book to guide and inspire—a manual for creating something to make you proud.

The 160 page paperback book is currently available for pre-order with release set for January 30. Similar guides focus on the Spitfire, Pfalz D.III and BAC Lightning.

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New A6M2-K Zero Trainer Model Kit Released by Eduard

Eduard has released a new “Weekend Edition” A6M2-K model kit in 1/48 scale.

The Mitsubishi A6M2-K was a two-seat trainer version of the famous Zero, built to help Japanese Navy pilots transition into flying the highly maneuverable A6M fighter safely. It kept much of the Zero’s light, agile design but added a second seat for an instructor, along with trainer-focused modifications such as a lengthened cockpit area and reduced combat equipment.

The new offering (84211) incudes Eduard plastic parts and decals with marking options for four aircraft.

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FineMolds Releases “Meticulous” New A6M Zero Prototype Model Kit

FineMolds has released their new Mitsubishi A6M Zero prototype model kit in 1/72 scale.

The Zero prototype, designated A6M1, was the first version of the Japanese Navy’s famous carrier‑based fighter, built in 1939 as a lightweight, single‑seat monoplane with retractable gear and an enclosed cockpit to meet strict demands for speed, range, and extreme maneuverability. It used a 780 hp Mitsubishi Zuisei 13 radial engine and a very light airframe of aluminum alloy with fabric‑covered control surfaces, giving it low wing loading and excellent low‑speed handling even in its underpowered prototype form; after Navy trials, the design was refined into the A6M2 by switching to the more powerful Nakajima Sakae engine, launching the Zero’s long‑production run.

The new kit (FR03) “meticulously reproduces the details of the Type 12 Carrier Fighter ‘Unit 2.'” It offers molding in different colors (fuselage, wings, engine, and propeller are in gray, landing gear in black, and interior of the aircraft in yellow-green). PE parts also appear to be included.

Click below to check out the product link and additional images.

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FineMolds to Release New A6M Zero Kits Representing Prototype and Model 32

FineMolds has announced the upcoming release of two new Mitsubishi Zero kits in 1/72 scale. The offerings include the Mitsubishi A6M Zero prototype (FR03) and Mitsubishi A6M2 Zero Model 32 (FR04).

The A6M1 prototypes of 1939 were lightweight, long-range, carrier-based fighters with a low-wing monoplane layout, retractable landing gear, and a 580 kW Zuisei 13 engine driving an initially two-blade, later three-blade propeller, emphasizing extreme maneuverability and range at the expense of protection. The later A6M3 Model 32, first flown in 1941, introduced the more powerful Nakajima Sakae 21 engine with a two-speed supercharger, a shortened, squared-off wing without folding tips, enlarged wing fuel tanks, and upgraded Type 99 Mark 2 20 mm cannon, trading some of the earlier model’s turning ability and range for better roll rate, higher diving speed, and improved short-range combat performance.

The kits are currently set for release in April. Click below to check out additional photos, kit contents and livery options.

Continue reading FineMolds to Release New A6M Zero Kits Representing Prototype and Model 32