Chloe Zhang
Plastic model kits are a fun hobby that has been around for decades, with brands like Airfix being one of the first plastic model kit manufacturers. The best plastic model kits offer a range of options to suit different skill levels, interests, and budgets. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced model-builder, there are kits available for cars, ships, planes, tanks, and even sci-fi starships. When choosing a kit, consider the size, complexity, time commitment, and price. Some kits may be more challenging to assemble and paint, especially those with intricate details or a high number of pieces. Online retailers like MegaHobby.com offer a wide variety of kits, tools, and accessories to cater to different skill levels and interests. With the right kit, you can build anything from historical vehicles to your favourite sci-fi starship, bringing your imagination to life in miniature form.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Material | Dense polystyrene plastic |
| Parts | Come on a frame called a 'sprue' |
| Assembly | Each part is numbered and needs to be removed with clippers, then tidied up with a craft knife and file |
| Painting | Water-slide decals are usually included |
| Scale | Common scales for aircraft are 1/32, 1/48, and 1/72; for cars, 1:24 or 1:25; for tanks and military vehicles, 1:35 or 1:48 |
| Complexity | As models get bigger, they tend to get more complex and expensive |
| Difficulty | Some kits provide a relative skill level; the number of pieces and whether glue and paint are needed are also indicators of difficulty |
| Brands | Airfix, Revell, Tamiya |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic model kit building and painting
Plastic model kits are a fun hobby that can be taken up by people of all ages and skill levels. They are made from dense polystyrene plastic and come in parts that require assembly and painting. The parts come on a frame called a 'sprue' and are numbered, so you know which part to use as you follow the step-by-step instructions. You will need to carefully remove each part with a pair of clippers and tidy them up with a small craft knife and file before sticking them together.
When it comes to choosing the best plastic model kit, it depends on your interests and preferences. Popular types of models include aeroplanes, tanks, ships, cars, motorcycles, and figures. There are also many model kits depicting subjects from popular movies and television series. You should also consider the size of the completed model, the level of difficulty, the time you have available, and your budget. Generally, as the models get bigger, they become more complex and expensive and take longer to build.
Before starting to build your plastic model kit, it is important to gather the necessary tools and paints. Some essential tools include a hobby knife, cutting mat, tweezers, sprue cutters, and glue. It is recommended to use plastic cement for plastic models. When applying glue, use a small amount to avoid excess that can damage the model's surface. You may also need to paint your model, and it is important to choose the right type of paint. Acrylic paint, for example, is commonly used for models made of natural wood or cardboard but is not suitable for metal and other dark-coloured materials.
Building and painting a plastic model kit can be a rewarding experience, but it may also have its challenges. It is important to take your time and work in manageable stages, focusing on completing one section at a time. For complex models, it is often easier to paint parts before assembling them. Use small brushes for details and larger brushes or airbrushes for bigger areas. Applying a primer coat before painting can help the paint adhere better and provide a smoother surface. Thinning your paints with the appropriate thinner can also help achieve a smooth, even finish.
There are many online communities dedicated to the hobby of plastic model kit building and painting, where you can find tips, techniques, and kit reviews and support from other enthusiasts. These communities can be a great source of information and inspiration as you build and paint your plastic model kits.
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Choosing a scale
When choosing a plastic model kit, it's important to consider the scale of the model. The scale of a model kit is typically expressed as a ratio or fraction, indicating how the model's size relates to the real-world object. For example, a ratio of 1:72 means that the model is 72 times smaller than the actual object. Scales can vary widely, from 1:10 to 1:342 or even higher.
Different types of models have different common scales. For aircraft models, the common scales are 1/32, 1/48, and 1/72. Smaller and simpler models are often in the 1/72 scale, while larger and more complex models are typically in the 1/32 scale. For figures and dioramas, the common scales are 1/72, 1/35, and 1/16. 1/72 scale figures are ideal for collecting large armies or tabletop wargames, while 1/35 scale is suitable for detailed figures to accompany military vehicles.
When choosing a scale, it's important to consider the size of the completed model, your skill level, and the level of detail you desire. Smaller scales may be more challenging to build due to intricate parts, while larger scales can provide more opportunity for detail and complexity. Additionally, the scale may impact the price and the time required to build the model. Generally, as models get bigger, they become more complex and expensive, and they take longer to assemble.
It's worth noting that some model kits may not provide the exact number of pieces or finished dimensions, so it's advisable to refer to user reviews for size and difficulty comparisons. Considering your available time, budget, and the level of challenge you're comfortable with can help guide your decision on the appropriate scale for your plastic model kit.
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Choosing a subject
The first step in choosing a plastic model kit is deciding on a subject. Popular types of models include aeroplanes, tanks, ships, cars, motorcycles, and figures. There are also many model kits depicting subjects from popular movies and television series. For example, if you are a fan of Star Trek, you might enjoy building the AMT Star Trek U.S.S. Enterprise Refit Model Kit.
If you are a beginner, it is recommended to start with a smaller, simpler model kit. These kits are ideal for those who are just starting out and usually include a small amount of glue, a brush, and the main paint colours required. You can also find starter sets that come with all the essential tools and accessories needed to get started.
When choosing a subject, consider the size of the completed model, the level of difficulty, the time you have available, and your budget. Generally, as the models get bigger, they also get more complex and expensive, and they will take longer to build.
Another thing to consider is the scale of the model. Aircraft models, for example, commonly come in scales of 1/32, 1/48, and 1/72. Smaller and simpler models will typically be in a smaller scale, while larger and more complex models will be in a larger scale.
Finally, think about the level of detail and precision you want in your model. Wooden model kits, for instance, may be less precise and detailed than plastic model kits. Plastic kits allow for more precise and detailed models due to the smaller and less blocky pieces. You can find a wide variety of models and skill levels to choose from at online hobby shops like MegaHobby.com.
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Required tools
Plastic model kits are a fun hobby and a great way to pass the time. If you are new to the world of model kits, you might be wondering what tools you need to get started. Here is a list of the essential tools required to build and paint your first plastic model kit:
- Clippers or nippers: To carefully remove each part from the frame or 'sprue'.
- Craft knife: For tidying up the parts after removal.
- File: To smooth out any rough edges left over from the removal process.
- Glue: Specifically designed for plastic models, this is used to assemble the parts together.
- Paint: Choose modelling paint that is suitable for plastic models.
- Paintbrushes: For painting the model and applying any necessary decals.
- Sandpaper: To smooth out any imperfections or rough surfaces before painting.
- Tweezers: Helpful for holding small parts and reaching tight spaces during assembly.
Some starter sets are available that include a small amount of glue, a brush, and the main paint colours required. These can be a great option for beginners who want to try out the hobby without investing in a lot of tools upfront.
Additionally, it is worth mentioning that some models can be very complex and time-consuming to build, so having a good set of instructions and taking your time is essential. Happy modelling!
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Skill level
Plastic model kits are made from dense polystyrene plastic and come in parts that require assembly and painting. They usually include water-slide decals to apply. The parts come on a frame called a 'sprue' and each part is numbered so that you know which part to look for as you work through the step-by-step instructions.
The skill level required to build a plastic model kit depends on the size and complexity of the model. Generally, as the models get bigger, they get more complex, and so the price also goes up, as does the time they will take to build.
Model kits for beginners are smaller and simpler, and may neither be complex nor large, so assembly isn't a daunting task. They often come with instructions that are easy to follow. Some kits for beginners do not require painting, while others allow beginners to try their hand at painting parts of the model.
More complex kits may have scores of parts and may require the assembly of major sections. They may also require painting and the application of decals.
Some common scales for plastic model kits are as follows:
- Aircraft: 1/32, 1/48, and 1/72. The smaller and simpler model aircraft will be 1/72 scale, and the larger, more complex models will be 1/32 scale, with 1/48 scale models sitting between the two.
- Military Vehicles: Tanks and other military ground vehicles are commonly either 1/72 or 1/35 scale. 1/35 scale is common for sets of detailed figures that go alongside military vehicles.
- Figures: 1/72 scale figures are about 20-25mm tall and come in boxes of up to 50 figures. Larger, individual figures come in 1/16 scale.
Examples of beginner kits
- Aoshima's Surface-to-Ship Missile Truck: This military-inspired model kit is a fantastic first model for newbies. It has plenty of parts to keep beginners engaged, and the camouflage colour ensures that the model won't be too easy to complete.
- Toyota 06-B C-HR Snap-Fit Kit: This is another ideal kit for beginners because there's no gluing involved. Assembly is as easy as following the instructions and snapping each piece together with its matching components.
- Fujimi's Living Things plastic model: This kit is simple but detailed. It is a Japanese Giant Mantis model that does not require painting. It is a great kit for teaching the younger generation about plastic model kits.
- Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution III 1996 Swedish Rally Winner Scale Kit from Hasegawa: This kit is recommended for racing enthusiasts and can serve as a jumping-off point to more complex model kits.
Examples of more complex kits
- Revell P-40B kit: This kit has been described as one of the worst Revell kits in terms of fit, requiring a lot of filling and sanding that may damage detail.
- Tamiya 1/35 armor: This kit has been recommended by a user who was choosing between Tamiya and Airfix.
- Airfix kits: Airfix was among the first plastic model kit manufacturers and remains a popular brand, competing with other brands producing quality model kits.
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Frequently asked questions
Airfix was one of the first plastic model kit manufacturers and remains a popular choice. Other brands producing quality model kits include Tamiya and Revell. Wonderland Models and MegaHobby.com are good places to shop for kits from a range of brands.
Popular types of plastic models include aeroplanes, tanks, ships, cars, motorcycles, and figures. There are also many model kits depicting subjects from popular movies and television series.
The scale of a plastic model kit refers to the size of the model in relation to the real-world object. Aircraft models, for example, commonly come in scales of 1/32, 1/48, and 1/72. Smaller and simpler models tend to be in a smaller scale, while larger and more complex models are in a bigger scale.
Some model kits provide a relative skill level on the box or in the description. Generally, the more pieces a model has, the more intricate and difficult it will be to build. Kits that require gluing and painting may also be more challenging.
