Static model aircraft

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Many modelers construct models by assembling plastic model kits, which are produced through the injection molding process."What is injection molding." Polyplastics. Also, there are model kits made from plastic resin."Beginner's How-To Guide to Plastic Modeling." Mega Hobby.(2022, November 4). "[https://finescale.com/how-to/articles/2022/11/building-model-airplanes A beginners' guide to building model airplanes]." Fine Scale Modeler. Some modelers advance from building plastic kits to kitbashing, where they combine parts from various kits,(2024, Jun 26). "Hobby 101: Kitbashing/Converting." Goon Hammer. and a few eventually move on to scratch building, which involves creating models from raw materials.Alexander, Stan. "What is Scratch-Building?." Model Aviation. The tools that modelers commonly use include fine-tipped tweezers, hobby knives, paintbrushes, airbrushes, side cutters, liquid cement, and sanding sticks.

The first plastic aircraft models were manufactured in 1936. The demand for these models experienced a substantial increase during the 1940s, primarily driven by public interest in military aircraft during World War II.(2019, November 20). "The Complete History of Plastic Scale Modeling." AC Supply. The 1950s is regarded as the golden era of plastic modeling, a period marked by the greater economic accessibility of model kits, which allowed a broader segment of the population to engage in this hobby. Furthermore, significant advancements were made in the detailing and accuracy of the models. In the 1960s, the field of aircraft plastic modeling underwent considerable expansion, achieving a larger mainstream acceptance. This era was characterized by enhancements in realism and detail, as well as innovations in painting and decal application techniques, which further increased the authenticity of the models. In contemporary times, plastic model-making continues to evolve, with many modelers integrating technologies such as three-dimensional printing and digital modeling into their practices.

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Materials used to make static metal aircraft include die-cast and aluminum.(2024, May 13). "The History of Die-Cast Model Airplanes." Midwest Model Store."THE HISTORY OF STATIC MODELING." Fire Scale Modeler. Aluminum static models vary in the amount of detail."Aluminium model aircraft." Alibaba.com A detailed aluminum model aircraft might include a detailed fuselage and cockpit, retractable landing gear, and markings that closely mirror the original aircraft.Libuse, C. (2013, Jan). “A Family Tradition of Model Making Turns into a Profession.” The Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum. Additionally, models may be designed with functional features such as hinged access panels, folding wings, retractable landing gears, and activated control surfaces. Moreover, they could potentially include operational navigation lights and electrically powered propellers. Other details such as the paint finish and surface textures, contribute to a realistic appearance in these types of models.

File:Phoenix Models Boeing 787-9 Air Canada C-FRTG “Go Canada Go!”.jpg Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner in 1:400 scale]]Die-cast aircraft models are made out of metal alloys, plastic, or other materials. The most common scales are 1:400 and 1:200 scales.(2023, May 20). "The Art of Die-Cast Airplane Collecting." Flying Magazine. Dinky Toys, TootsieToy company, and Hubley Manufacturing Company were three of the earliest companies to produce die-cast airplane models. Numerous die-cast aircraft models where manufactured from the 1930s to the 1970s. Although initially targeted toward children, these models gained popularity among adults. These included commercial airliners and military aircraft. In the 1980s, die-cast airplane models gained greater popularity due to the 1:400 scale by GeminiJets, which allowed for the production and sale of inexpensive detailed models. Current companies that manufacture die-cast airplane models include Inflight200, Herpa, and Gemini Jets. Iconic airline liveries have grown in popularity in recent years.

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Wooden static models are hand-carved by individual artisans and model making companies."Custom & Wooden Airplane Models" Squadron. The most popular types of wood used in creating these wooden static models are balsa and mahogany. Balsa wood is favored for its lightweight properties, making it easier to carve and shape,(2024, July 10). "Why Is Balsa Wood Used for Miniature Model Kits?" Ac Supply. while mahogany is chosen for its durability and attractive finish.(2025) “You never really own a PlaneArts model  –  you merely look after it for the next generation”?" My Mahogany Models.

Many of the early aircraft static models were made from wood."Plastic Model Making, a Hobby for anyone." Lippisch Model Club. After Lindbergh's solo flight across the Atlantic, there was a great surge in demand in everything related to aircraft, and that led to wooden models, including Guillow's balsa kits, becoming very popular in the United States.Leonard, Andrew (October 25, 2011). "Dreams: Paul K. Guillow's model airplanes have been buzzing over parks since 1926". Technology on Your Time: Toys and Games. O'Reilly Media, Inc. pp. 34–39. Retrieved November 7, 2019. Today, although plastic models have become the dominant field within aircraft modeling, many model makers continue the craft of making static wooden models out of kits or from scratch."Custom Airplane Models Made From Premium Mahogany." Aviator Gear."

"Guillow's Vought F4U-4 Corsair Model Kit, Navy." Amazon.

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There are various types of paper models (also known as cardboard models), ranging from three-dimensional models to simple-folded paper darts. They have been distributed in multiple formats, including books, boxed sets, and newspapers. During WW2, paper models gained appeal due to material shortages. However, interest in paper models slowed down after WW2.Stanley, Michael. "A Short History of Paper Models." Modeling madness.

In recent years, there has been a noteworthy resurgence in the popularity of making paper model planes."Fun Facts About Paper Airplanes." Athens Paper. Although there are limitations, some paper modelers are able to create models with a scale-like look.Kalata, Tomasz . (2019, November 20). "P-39D1 BE Paper Model (KW Model)." Large Scale Planes. One key advantage is that the material is less expensive."CORRUGATED CARDBOARD BOXES." Paper Mart.

• List of model aircraft manufacturers
• Model aircraft
• Scale model
• Model Airplane News
• Model engine
• Model building
• Die-cast toy
• History of aviation
• International Plastic Modellers' Society (IPMS)

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Category:Aircraft