A6M2b (prod. Mitsubishi) 1/72 FineMolds
The Zero A6M2b was the first version of the famous fighter aircraft equipped for service on aircraft carriers. This version entered service in IJN in 1941, before the attack on Pearl Harbor. It remained in frontline service until the last shots of World War II. In addition to the parent Mitsubishi factory, competitor Nakajima also participated in production. The aircraft produced by the two factories differed in several details (longer propeller cone, interior color and landing gear bays).
The A6M2b version was released by FineMolds in 2007 as an appendix to Model Graphic magazine. It differs from the A6M1 prototype kit with new fuselage frames, a Sakae 12 engine, an engine cowling, and clear parts. The differences between the Nakajima and Mitsubishi factories are described in the instructions. The construction itself is a pleasant experience. I only added the seat belts to the pilot’s seat, a new gunsight, landing gear hydraulics, and cables to the engine spark plugs. I also added two lines on the wing and riveted the surface according to the drawings in the publication Aero Detail 7, Mitsubishi A6M Zero Fighter.
The biggest challenge was choosing an attractive camouflage. I chose the color scheme offered in the instructions, namely the aircraft used in the attack on Pearl Harbor, piloted by IJN ace T. Iwamoto. I mixed the J3 Ameiro color from Gunze C128 and C60 paints in a 7/3 ratio. I also sprayed the Hinomaru and tactical markings according to the masks from Dead Design. I only used the stencils from the decals.
That was it, and I could park the Mitsubishi-produced A6M2b in the display case next to the A6M1 prototype.
Josef’s completed build of the A6M2b is nothing short of impressive. From the moment you see the finished product, it’s clear that a lot of care and attention to detail went into every aspect of the model. The paint scheme chosen is absolutely spot-on—visually striking while remaining authentic to the subject. It brings the entire build to life and really enhances the overall presence of the aircraft.
The Fine Molds kit itself appears to be quite comprehensive, requiring minimal additional work beyond the cockpit interior, which Joseph has noted as the main area for further detail. Even so, the out-of-box result is already excellent, and Joseph has clearly made the most of what the kit offers.
This build has definitely inspired me to consider ordering my own version of the A6M2b. If you’re looking for a model that offers both high accuracy and visual appeal with relatively little modification needed, this one looks to be a winner—especially in the hands of a skilled builder like Joseph.
Thank you for sharing such a fantastic build!