XF-25 Light Sea Grey 10ml

Tamiya XF-25 Light Sea Grey (Enamel) — matte enamel paint, 10 ml

This is a modeling paint, not a kit. XF-25 Light Sea Grey is a light naval gray from the enamel (synthetic) Tamiya Color range, in a bottle holding 10 ml. The letters XF denote a matte surface. The paint is solvent-based and is thinned with X-20 enamel thinner (without the letter A). Do not confuse it with the acrylic version of the same number XF-25, which exists alongside it — the acrylic is water-thinnable and is thinned with X-20A. The same shade number does not yet mean the same paint as far as working with it goes.

Use

• The manufacturer recommends this gray for the hulls of models of British battleships — so it is primarily a British naval shade.
• In general on light gray areas: the lower surfaces of aircraft, the superstructures and decks of ships, accessories and vehicles.
• Airbrush and brush. For spraying the manufacturer gives a guide thinning of roughly 2 parts of X-20 thinner to 10 parts of paint.
• Enamels are the classic medium for washes and panel lines applied over a cured acrylic layer.
• A light gray also suits use as a base for fading, for lightening panels and for modulation effects.

Thinning and application

Stir the paint properly, right down to the bottom, before use. An enamel dries more slowly than an acrylic, so it levels out nicely into a smooth matte film even after a brush — on the large gray areas of hulls and lower surfaces that is an advantage. Always spray a gloss clear coat under decals, because a matte surface under a decal leads to visible lightening of the edges. Choose a clear coat compatible with enamel; the manufacturer points out that lacquer paints are not sprayed over an enamel — the solvent would attack the layer beneath.

Who it is for

For builders of ships and aircraft who need a reliable light naval gray in a matte finish, and for modelers who work with synthetic paints for their coverage and self-leveling. A good choice also for those who build in acrylic and keep enamel for weathering, shadows and picking out details.

Safety notice: flammable. The product irritates the airways. Work in a well-ventilated space and use respiratory protection when spraying. Keep out of the reach of children and away from open flame and sources of ignition.