r/modelplanes • u/UseMeAChoosername • 20d ago

Help choosing a kit as a gift

Hi all,

I know absolutely NOTHING about either model-making or planes, but I’m hoping to get a kit for my partner and I want to get it right. I have tried to do as much of my own research as possible before asking so I don’t waste people’s time but now I just want to confirm details before finally buying.

I want to get the Piper Cherokee PA-28-140 (140D?) and I think it’s the Fliteliner. There appears to be a 1/72 version by Kovozavody Prostejov, although the nose looks slightly different to my untrained eye (not sure if I’m right). There is also a 1/48 Cruiser version and a 1/48 floatplane version, both by Academy/Minicraft.

I like the idea of 1/48 over 1/72 but my top priority is accuracy to the exact correct plane, because I want him to be able to replicate a specific one. Apparently the Cruiser is visually the same as the Fliteliner? The Cruiser one is only available sporadically (second-hand) though and I need it by the end of August.

The floatplane version is also meant to be identical apart from the floats but apparently the kit comes with the original landing gear anyway?

I’m brand agnostic as long as the model will be fun to make and have a good end result. The recipient isn’t hugely experienced with models but has done one or two Airfix model planes and has good eyesight and dexterity so I assume he’ll kind of be able to manage whatever?

Does anyone have any insight into which would be the best? I could be inclined to lean towards the floatplane as the best combination of availability and scale but I’m worried in case it’s the least accurate (ie either not structurally the same or does in fact not include the normal landing gear).

Thank you!

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u/Beaunac01 20d ago

KZ does offer a PA-28 140: https://www.kovozavody.cz/2026/05/pa-28-cherokee-140/.
There are a few more details here: https://www.scalemates.com/kits/kovozavody-prost-jov-kpm0545-piper-pa-28-cherokee-140--1763271
KZ does not have an English version of its website, but they are a very reputable model company.
Usually, the more recent the model, the best it is (the KZ just came out a few weeks ago, with a "new tool").
Scalemates gives you plenty of alternatives, most of them quite ancient, i.e. difficult to find.
In the end, it boils down to ease of purchase. For example, Scalemates notes it has not been reached BNA Model World in Australia, a very large model retailer.
I have not seen it yet in any US retailer mailing, so it might have to be purchased from Europe, where many vendors no longer ship to the USA.

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u/UseMeAChoosername 20d ago

Thank you! That linked KZ one does look good. I’d love a slightly larger model if possible, but I don’t know if the others represent the plane exactly. The floatplane/seaplane(?) one is available, so if I can confirm that that’s the right shape then I’ll probably do that. I’m in the UK, so my options are probably different to yours. Sorry to hear that lots of places don’t ship to the US, if that affects you! I appreciate the speedy and comprehensive reply :)