Popular Articles

You've built a rocket and flown it several times and you are starting to notice some wear and tear on both your rocket and launch equipment. How do you keep your rocket gear looking good while performing at a high level and staying safe?

Gundam Model Basics

Welcome to the fun world of Gunpla. Gunpla is short for "Gundam Plastic Models" (In Japan, it's just a fad if it doesn't have some weird word to describe it's fanbase). Gundam models are perfect kits...

Filling Model Kit Seams

Let's face it. No one, and I mean no one, enjoys filling seams. It is easily the worst part of building model kits. But, it's gotta be done. Nothing ruins a model faster than a poorly filled seam. Today, I will share some pointers with you...

Model Rocket Range Boxes

You've built your model rocket and have it all ready for its maiden flight. You've watched the weather report and have a good day for launch. In order to launch a rocket, you need to gather your range box. A range box is a fancy term for...

Aftermarket Model Kit Parts

Previously, I have talked about ways to save money by using alternatives to aftermarket parts for your model kit builds. Today I will discuss the various types of aftermarket sets out there and point out their strengths and...

Building A Model Rocket

Today, I will show you how to build a model rocket. I will be using Estes Mini Max for this demonstration. This is a basic rocket that will provide a good first step and teach you all the skills necessary to complete your very own rocket.

Model Rocket Recovery

You've just spent the weekend building your new model rocket and it's time to fly. The last thing you want to do is have all that time and hard work come crashing into the ground. So, let's talk about rocket recovery.

F-100 Model Kit Review

The Trumpeter 1:32nd F-100D is the first production styrene model kit of this aircraft in the bigger scale. The kit does come with a hefty price tag, selling for $150.00, though it can be found in the $120 range from...

Model Kit Weathering Guide

Weathering can be as subtle as the discoloration from a super-heated exhaust pipe on a motorcycle or as prominent as faded paint on a plane. A good weathering job will make your model kit stand out and jump off the shelf.

Model Kits As Collectibles

A collectible is typically a manufactured item designed for people to collect. They are different from other collection items such as butterflies or stamps. To encourage collecting, manufacturers create a series of a certain collectible, with each item being different in some way. Trading cards are an example of this, where the collector will try to purchase and display a complete set of the variations. Periodically, an item may become very valuable, and these are called collector's items.

Model kits can frequently become collectibles as well. In fact, model kits, figurines, train sets, and monster kits can be displayed with pride because you essentially created them by assembling and painting. That is why many model kit collectors treasure their kits so much, they actually have had a hand in what the final piece will look like, unlike stamp or baseball card collecting. This unique feature makes model kits more prized possessions to the avid collector.