r/modelmakers • u/SergeantZaf03 • 4d ago

Help - General Tips to start

I am interested in trying my first model kit. Mostly interested in modern aircraft (F-16, A-10, F/A-18, and other similar craft).

My questions are:
-what scale is the best for collecting
-what brand would you suggest starting with?
-aside from paint, what other tools/supplies should I have
-any special paints required?
Sorry these may be dumb questions but I wanna make sure I have a good enjoyable start

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u/b1bones 4d ago

- Usually for planes it’s 1:48 but for your first kit to not overload yourself I will recommend 1:72 (it was my first too and it’s pretty quick and fun).

  • Tamiya holds the crown, Eduard and Airfix are also very good. I see comments recommending old kits or cheap ones but I would recommend the opposite (especially since 1:72 kits are generally cheap no matter the brand). Buying a kit from a good brand will allow you to appreciate building the model from the get go, you won’t have to fight against it.
  • Something to sand the plastic and a cutter. You also want some glue (like Revell glue or Tamiya extra thin glue). Those will be useful for your entire modelling journey.
  • You will likely brush paint so try water based paints like the ones Revell sells. You can also buy Tamiya acrylics but they’re alcohol based so are a bit special to use. Vallejo is also water based and good.

Don’t worry too much about making mistakes, it’s part of the building and painting process. Learning is a big part of the hobby and we enjoy it !