Interested in trying my hand at scale aircraft. Always been interested in plastic models but never got “around” to it.
Most of my modeling experience comes from miniature war games which started way back in the 80’s with a first edition Blood Bowl game. I have also dabbled with some simple RC stuff as well.
Military weaponry, especially air, has always fascinated me. I also like the relaxation that modeling brings.
So, I signed up for a subscription and am trying to decide where to start. Any suggestions as far as scale or model type would be much appreciated. I just want to not get in over my head to begin with.
There is alot of great information in these forums, looking forward to picking through it, thanks!
Best to start with inexpensive models with lower parts counts. Strive to complete each model you start, flaws and all before moving onto the next one.
Older Revell / Monogram kits are a good start. They fit the description and can build into nice scale miniatures.
1/48 scale has the most choices as it is the most popular scale for aircraft. Another advantage is there has been a resurgence in armor, figures and aircraft accessories like jeeps, fuel trucks etc. in this classic scale.
Aside from the chaos & general fun there are discussions about model building here. Also most are very helpful with any questions. Just search the archives first as many basic questions have been answered before.
Welcome to the forum Kerry got a great bunch of modelers here , just as suppressionfire said just ask and you will get the info you will need. happy modeling !
Howdy and welcome, what scale you choose is depended on how much room you have. I chose 1/72 scale because most of the aircraft aren’t too big. For the most part you have a very good selection of large aircraft to choose from as well. B-52s, B-36, XB-70, Flying Wings, C-130 Herky Birds, B-1Bs, even a Concord SST are available. They offer moderate detail and you will find there is a lot of after market detail stuff out there for 1/72 scale aircraft.
1/144 allows you to have quit a selection as well and display your aircraft in half the space. Detail in the kits is often rudimentary but I’ve seen modelers do some outstanding detailing on 1/144 scale models.
The 1/24, 1/32/35, and 1/48 scales offer a lot more detail in the kits that are out there but a modeler who is starting into or back into the hobby will find the selection gets more sparse in injection kits offered as the scale gets larger. All scales offer vacuform, resin, or multi-material kits foe larger aircraft. I have never assembled a kit that had fiberglass, plastic, metal, and resin parts as components of the kit. Do not be afraid to ask questions, the only dumb question is the one not asked. Again welcome to our forum, Magoo
I agree about finding some older Revell/Monogram kits to “practice on.” Start simple and work on the basics. As a beginner you want to make seamlessness a priority. Learn how to use and practice using welding cement. Then practice sanding or scraping down the seams. Read up on filling seams with putty of seam filling paints. This will be the most important skill to have because even with a great paint job or ultra detailing any visible seams will ruin your build.
I’d also invest in a good starter airbrush.
There’s a guy on here who has a good site that you might find really useful. I think its swannymodels.com or something close to that. He has lots of good info.