Nakajima Ki-43 Part 2

Lifelike Decals, 1/48 scale

Reviewed by Floyd S. Werner Jr.

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Lifelike Decals expands its range of markings for the Ki-43, code named “Oscar” by the allies.  No fewer that 5 marking options are provided on this sheet.  While all the aircraft are for green over gray camouflage schemes, there are some truly striking and colorful unit markings included in this sheet. Options are provided for the Type I, II and III variants of this Imperial Japanese Army counterpart to the more famous A6M Zero. 

All markings appear to be well rendered and in good registration.  Unlike the sheets in their 1:72 B-25 and P-51 series, there is no indication of which company has done the printing, but the sheets appear to be well printed and commendably thin.  An errata sheet is provided to correct some of the markings on the sheet.  Kudos to Lifelike for acknowledging and fixing the issue.

The decals will be very useful for application on the Hasegawa and Fine Molds kits of this subject or even to dress up the old Nichimo and Otaki versions.  I picked up both at a show but the kits are so old, the decals were shot, so this sheet will give them a new lease on life!

I think there may be enough insignia to do at least two of the subjects on the sheet, but if not, you would only need the borderless hinomarus, and these can easily be sourced from the kit decals or even masked and painted.

This is a great option for either the latest kits of this important subject or a lifesaver for older kits many of us have on our shelves.  I am really glad to see Lifelike providing these options and especially with such quality..

Thanks to Lifelike Decals for these samples.

Text and Images Copyright © 2020 by Floyd S. Werne Jr.
Page Created 20 February, 2020
Last updated 20 February, 2020

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