[CrateCruncher]

No one has mentioned this so here goes. From my own experience I've noticed that ALL lacquer-based clears can be detrimental to the well being of my decals.

There are generally 4 types of paint based on the solvent used to maintain the color and binder in a liquid state: lacquer, acrylic, enamel, and polyurethane (2k).

In my experience it is the lacquer solvent that damages the decal, not the clear itself. Thats why lacquer based TS-17/79/80 all damage decals but Tamiya's other clear, acrylic based X-22 is harmless. (Future is basically watered down X-22 BTW.) Testors/Model Master spray-can clears are also lacquer-based and can curdle decals instantly.

I have found DuPont's 2K clear is harmless and rock hard. It's what I prefer. I've never tried enamel clears. Be careful, read the labels and experiment with extra decals if not sure.

No doubt some guys have successfully avoided sudden decal death through light misting lacquer clears but they're successful by exposing the decal to as little lacquer thinner as possible and taking a risk every time they do it. Besides, it takes longer and who wants to keep shooting and sanding dull misty finishes?

Lacquers are designed to melt the previous dry layer so they combine seemlessly. The paint becomes one big coat so you don't get rings when color sanding through layers like with enamels. Thats why the solvents are "hot". I say avoid anything that looks or smells like lacquer when working with decals. There are much better alternatives. You should be ok shooting acrylics or 2k over a previous layer of lacquer clear but, again, test in an inconspicuous place.