XF-58 Olive Green 10ml

Tamiya XF-58 Olive Green (Enamel), a matte enamel paint, 10 ml

This is a modeling paint, not a kit. Tamiya XF-58 Olive Green from the enamel (synthetic) range is a solvent-based paint in a bottle of 10 ml. The letters XF in the Tamiya designation mean a matte shade: once dry the surface stays free of gloss, which is exactly how sprayed military vehicles look. The shade is a medium to dark olive green; the manufacturer recommends it above all for American armored vehicles, and in practice it is also used on Allied and post-war vehicles, artillery, crates, transport containers and as a base for camouflage schemes and dioramas.

Note: enamel, not acrylic

The same shade number XF-58 exists at Tamiya in two different ranges. This item is the enamel, that is a solvent-based (synthetic) paint thinned with X-20 thinner (without the letter A). The acrylic version of the same number is water-thinnable and uses X-20A thinner. The thinners are not interchangeable; always check which range you are working with, both when buying and when mixing.

Use

• Airbrush and brush alike. For spraying, thin the paint with X-20 thinner; the manufacturer gives a starting ratio of roughly 2 parts thinner to 10 parts paint, and you adjust the ratio to the nozzle and the pressure.
• Apply it in thin coats. An enamel dries more slowly than an acrylic, but in exchange it levels beautifully and leaves fewer strokes when brushed.
• Before applying decals, overcoat the area with gloss varnish, because decals do not grip a matte surface well and a white film forms around the carrier film (silvering). Once the decals are dry, the matte or semi-matte overcoat returns.
• An enamel is an excellent base under oil washes and filters; always let the paint dry sufficiently, though, and ideally fix it with a varnish so that the solvent of the wash does not attack it.
• Do not apply lacquer varnishes directly onto enamel that is not dry through, as they can attack or wrinkle the coat.

Who the paint is for

For modelers of military vehicles who work with synthetic paints and appreciate their coverage, smooth surface and easy brushing. It suits the building of armored vehicles, vehicles, figures and dioramas in any scale.

Safety: a flammable liquid. The fumes irritate the airways. Use only in well ventilated spaces, provide protection for your airways (a respirator) and avoid contact with skin and eyes. Keep out of reach of children and away from sources of ignition.