1:48 A6M Zero ( open-closed )

The real subject

The A6M Zero was a Japanese carrier fighter with a radial engine, famous for its agility and its exceptional range. Its striking feature is the long glazed canopy with a good view in all directions, made up of a fixed front section, a sliding part and the rear glazing. On a model it is the area everyone notices first.

What the part is for

The replacement clear canopy in 1:48 scale takes the place of the part from the kit and is prepared for both a closed and an open cockpit. The open position lets the interior stand out, which otherwise cannot be seen into, and it suits a model standing on a deck or on a stand. The shape of the canopy differs between the individual forms of the Zero, so compare the part with your own kit before building.

Building and painting tips

Hold the part by its edges and work on a clean surface. Cut the surplus material away with a sharp blade a little away from the edge and level the edge by sanding on fine paper, trying the fit dry after every pass. Separate the sliding part you want to have pushed back only after the edges of the whole have been leveled, so that the parts line up. Glue with a product for clear parts or with white PVA glue; cyanoacrylate will fog the surface. Mask the frames with narrow strips of tape and paint the interior shade first, only then the top shade; the edges look cleaner once the tape comes off.

Who it is for

For builders of Japanese naval fighters in 1:48 scale and for anyone who wants the cockpit open. The model, the paints and the glue are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.