In February 1941, the IJN instructed the Nakajima company to develop a float-equipped version of the outstanding Mitsubishi A6M2 Zero naval interceptor that had just entered service 8 months earlier and was also being built by Nakajima. The resulting A6M2-N proved an important weapon in Japan's 'island-hopping' war in the Pacific where there would be few ready-made air bases from which to provide air cover during the invasion and occupation of smaller islands where construction of runways would be impractical. Despite the large float mounted under the fuselage, the 'Rufe' (the Allied code name for the A6M2-N) still displayed creditable performance although it was usually at a disadvantage against land-based fighters. The type was first issued to the Yokohama Kokutai which deployed to Tulagi in the Solomons where the Japanese had landed during the Battle of the Coral Sea. Virtually the entire detachment was destroyed by 15 Grumman F4F's from the USS Wasp during the American invasion of Guadalcanal on 7 August 1942. The A6M2 was used with more success in the Aleutian campaign beginning in June 1942 but losses soared as soon as American fighter strength was built up.

This 4-piece set actually includes two different models - (x2) 'full hull' models and (x2) waterline models that simulate the planes in water. We think that these 3D printed models easily rival (and probably exceed) the quality of comparable Pit Road white metal and WEM resin cast products but we've posted some high resolution photos so you can judge for yourself. They're not perfect though as the struts supporting the outrigger floats are out of scale due to the process limitations of 3D printing (we're pushing the technology pretty hard with models at this scale!). With a little effort, some good eyesight and steady hands, they could be replaced with PE or strip styrene to create a little masterpiece if you're inclined. While photography of these little gems is a challenge for our equipment and limited skills, we hope that we've been able to show the well proportioned model including the detailed canopy, the engine cowling, the fuselage and main float, the tail assembly and the wings complete with the stabilizing floats!

Although the surfaces are not perfectly smooth (3D printing is done in layers), the plastic used can be sanded and painted much the same way you would handle resin or styrene.

NOTE: While we currently maintain limited inventories of most items, some items may be "printed on demand", which usually requires 10-15 business days from order to shipment.