Which scale modern fighter model kit?

[jack54]

I haven't built a model kit in many years. I had built several 1/35 scale main battle tanks.

I'm thinking about trying a modern day fighter. The choices are mind boggling... 1/48, 1/72 plus quality differs based on aircraft, manufacturer and scale.

I thought 1/72 would be nice about 10 inches long but I watched a you-tube with the guy using tweezers.
1/48 would be about 15 inches.

Any recommendations would be appreciated!

Thanks

[Rebel Yell]

1/48th all the way for aircraft.

Kit quality is generally much better with lots more detail to enjoy.

[jack54]

ORIGINAL: Rebel Yell

1/48th all the way for aircraft.

Kit quality is generally much better with lots more detail to enjoy.

Thank you [:)]

[Aurelian]

1/32 is what I had.

[Red2112]

1/48 is the norm for airframes, and 1/32 if you don´t have steady hands and/or have enough space at home. 1/32 is great but BIG [:(]

Quality is tide to manufacture, so it dependes which manufacture you choose, as some fit better and have more detail then others, in general.

Trumpeter has good quality airplanes for example, but the prices are also more expensive.

If your just getting back to the hobby, I suggest cheaper manufactures like Revell or Italieri. Once you feel comfortable then buy a expensive kit if you so feel to.

Red

[MrsWargamer]

As something of a major long time hard core model making type (I'm more of a modeler than a wargamer), it depends ENTIRELY on the kit brand and kit subject and date of release.

Generally speaking, the 48th scale is favoured. But newer tooling large format type aircraft (bombers etc) in 72nd scale can be amazing.

You will find that as long as the kit is made within the last 10 years, you will be fairly happy.

Tamiya pretty much rules the roost, Hasegawa is good as well. But the bottom line is make sure it is a RECENT creation, not just a new box with an old mold (that's very common). Look on youTube for reviews where you watch them open and build the kit. you get to see the actual kit.

If you have an actual aircraft type, go and check for reviews of it specifically. You'll find out who did it best.

[GaryChildress]

I've always found that Tamiya makes some of the best quality kits out there.

[demyansk]

What would be the best sites to purchase a model?

Good post

[Anonymous]

[Deleted by Admins]

[jack54]

Thanks for all the help....

I ended up ordering a 1/48 scale Tamiya F-16CJ block 50.

Amazon had it $38 US with Free shipping.(I really wanted to buy from a hobby store but they were $10 more plus $8 shipping.)
I nearly bought a Hasegawa 1/48 FA-18F but it was more money. If I find I enjoy building the F-16 I might get the F18 next...

Thanks again for the advice!

[Red2112]

Nice!

Hasegawa and Trumpeter are among my favs for airframes, Dragon and Tamiya for land units. But sometimes it dependes on the model and scale.

For paints, Testors, Modelmaster and Vallejo, but again it depends what for. Laquers are a bit more finicky.

Just a couple of quick tips...

- Mix your putty (filler) with "nail polish remover" (acetate), that will make it more managable and will sink well between the wing/frame joint. Easy to remove access too, but do work fast as it dry´s quick.

- Once you have your kit painted, camo, weathering or what ever and your ready for paneling, apply gloss laquer so when you apply your panaeling (a well deluted dark color) to your panel lines, they will slide with ease. With the gloss laquer you also protect your base finish that way.

Plenty of stuff on YT to help you out.

Have fun!

[E]

ORIGINAL: Rebel Yell

1/48th all the way for aircraft.

Kit quality is generally much better with lots more detail to enjoy.

Until you get over 900 models built, as our family did. Then you'll be very glad you chose 1/72nd.

[MrsWargamer]

Used to love 48th scale, but size is an issue if you are an aggressive collector like me. My airforce has gone to 72nd scale which is ok these days. 72nd used to be a bit harder to find quality modern moldings, but today, it is a very good scale if you know how to look for the modern tooling releases.

[jack54]

@ Red

I checked some You-Tubes and times have changed since my 1/35 Tank days....layer after layer. Looks amazing!

Since it's my first attempt in a long time I'll probably use my old way of painting; followed by a black wash for indented details and some dry brush weathering, with a flat clear coat finish. Not the best but it's what I know...LOL

I saved some money using Amazon with the down side of waiting for an early July delivery. The Hobby sites would have it out in 3 days; I'd have it in a week. (well at least I'm not in a rush.)

BTW Tamiya has an F-16 Aggressor/Adversary kit that has the option for various Blocks. I also love the look of the Israeli F-16's. 'Kinetic' makes some... I may have opened a Pandora's Box [;)]

[Rebel Yell]

ORIGINAL: E



Until you get over 900 models built, as our family did. Then you'll be very glad you chose 1/72nd.

Never!

[x2oop]

I used to built mostly 1/72 because I have always had issues with storage space for my models. Otherwise 1/48 is probably best choice.

[loganpaul]

Well, thanks for this useful information, it helps me also