| A scale model is actually a copy or a representation | | | | dimension to the airplane. Collectors on the other hand, |
| of an item or object that is smaller or larger as | | | | focus on the issue of theme and not on personal |
| compared to its actual or original size. Mostly, it is a | | | | construction. |
| smaller representation and serves as a guide to the | | | | Flying scale models or 'aeromodelling' could either be |
| original object. Scale model airplanes are an archetypal | | | | free flight or control line or radio controlled. They are |
| example. There are many reasons why a scale model | | | | actually a realistic representation of a full blown |
| is made. It serves as a prototype and is used to test | | | | airplane. They can either be built from kits or from |
| the performance of the object in its initial | | | | scratch. Some of these kits take a long time to |
| developmental stages. Architects use them as a | | | | assemble and some are ready to fly or almost ready. |
| display model for customers to evaluate and purchase | | | | Scale modeling of airplanes has grown from a |
| the real object. Salesmen use them for the purpose of | | | | business perspective to a hobby. Although, some |
| new product promotion. | | | | people are not inclined towards this area of interest, |
| Wood, plastic and paper are generally used to create | | | | there are many who are passionate about assembling |
| a scale model. Scale model airplanes are of two types: | | | | model airplanes. |
| static and flying. The former is generally made of | | | | The assembler must possess a lot of patience, artistic |
| plastic. However, metal, paper and wood also make | | | | ability and creativity and also, more importantly, have |
| good models. Military aircrafts and commercial airliners | | | | an inherent interest in airplanes and modeling them. The |
| are the most common scale models in this type. The | | | | golden rule before assembling is to do ample research |
| number of manufacturers of the static type has | | | | on the original aircraft. Model kit references like photos, |
| dwindled today as compared to the 1970s and the | | | | documentation, markings, details, color scheme, pilot |
| popular scales are 1:144, 1:72 (the highest), 1:48, 1:32 and | | | | and modifications must be considered along with the |
| finally 1:24. | | | | list of items required like glue, paint, thinner, decal setting |
| Modeling of static airplanes includes kit assembly, | | | | solution etc. Instructions must be carefully read through |
| scratch building and finally a collection or repertoire of | | | | and the sequence followed as prescribed. |
| ready-made models. When it comes to craftsmanship | | | | Although some effects are quite complex to achieve |
| and skill, scratch building deserves the highest repute. | | | | in the first instance, some amount of time and practice |
| Accuracy and keenness to details are important skills | | | | help in mastering these techniques. Capturing the feel |
| here and scratch builders take more time than kit | | | | of a renowned aircraft in a smaller form is both |
| assemblers. Kit assemblers could either assemble | | | | exciting and rewarding. Some popular kits brands of |
| from the materials available in the box or make use of | | | | scale model airplanes include Plantraco Microflight RC, |
| additional items purchased to render functionality and | | | | Megatech, Ikarus etc. |