XF-27 Black Green 10ml

Tamiya XF-27 Black Green (Enamel) — matte enamel paint, 10 ml

This is a modeling paint, not a kit. XF-27 Black Green is a very dark black-green from the Tamiya Color enamel (synthetic) line, a bottle of 10 ml. The letters XF mean a matte surface. The paint is solvent-based and is thinned with the X-20 enamel thinner (without the letter A). Do not confuse it with the acrylic version of XF-27, which Tamiya sells alongside it under the same shade number — the acrylic is water-thinnable and is thinned with X-20A. The shade number is identical, but the medium is a different one.

Use

• The manufacturer describes it as a very dark green for the camouflage of German aircraft, that is as the dark element of two-color schemes.
• The shade looks almost black on a model. It suits anywhere a pure black would be too harsh and flat — in scale, a dark green looks more realistic than true black.
• It also works well on dark details, shadow coats and the preshading of panel lines.
• Airbrush and brush. For spraying, the manufacturer's guide ratio is about 2 parts X-20 thinner to 10 parts paint.
• Enamels are the classic medium for washes and for accentuating panel lines over a cured acrylic coat.

Thinning and application

Always stir the contents of the bottle thoroughly. With a shade this dark it pays to apply thin coats — a single heavy coat floods the panel lines and the model loses its relief. The slower drying of an enamel takes care of a smooth matte surface with no visible brush strokes. Spray a gloss clear coat before decals; on a matte black-green the lightening of a decal edge shows up particularly well. Choose a clear coat compatible with enamel; the manufacturer warns that lacquer paints are not sprayed over enamel.

Who it is for

For modelers of aircraft who need the dark element of a camouflage scheme, and for anyone looking for a soft black for shadows, details and weathering. Suitable as a dark base for subsequent modulation with lighter shades as well.

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