XF-21 Sky 23ml

Tamiya XF-21 Sky, 23 ml — a matte acrylic paint

This is a modeling paint, not a kit. Tamiya XF-21 Sky is a water-based acrylic paint in a jar holding 23 ml. At Tamiya the designation XF means the matte range (the gloss shades carry the letter X). The shade Sky is a light, greenish to gray-green color — a British aviation shade which in its time became established as one of the most characteristic colors of the RAF. The manufacturer describes it directly as a color for the lower surfaces of British aircraft.

Use

• The lower surfaces of British fighters — in the RAF the shade Sky was used on the lower surfaces of day fighters from 1940, that is, in the period of the Battle of Britain and after it.
• The identification band around the rear fuselage (the Sky band) — it was precisely this shade that the conspicuous band on the rear part of the fuselage of British fighters was painted in. Together with a Sky spinner and the yellow leading edge stripe it was part of the standard day fighter scheme.
• Spitfires and Hurricanes — the two best known subjects on which you will most often see the combination of lower surfaces and a fuselage band in Sky; it therefore suits practically every model of a British fighter of that time.
• Spinners and small elements — Sky was also used on propeller spinners; you will use the paint as a light greenish tone on accessory parts and hardware as well.

Thinning and application

It is thinned with Tamiya X-20A thinner and can be used for airbrush and brush alike. Light shades generally cover less well, so apply the paint over a light base (a white or light gray primer) and rather in several thin coats than in one heavy one — otherwise the surface underneath may show through and the finish will be grainy. Always mix the paint thoroughly before use. For a clean edge of the fuselage band, use masking tape over a properly dried layer underneath.

Who the paint is for

For anyone who builds models of British fighters of the Second World War — you can practically not do without the shade Sky on them. Modelers who need a light greenish tone for mixes of their own will appreciate it too. A 23 ml jar is enough for a number of models.

The paint is flammable. Work in a well-ventilated area, protect your airways with a respirator when airbrushing and prevent contact with the eyes and the skin. Keep out of the reach of children and close the jar well after use.