Model Aircraft FAQs

What are model aircraft made out of?
 
Model aircraft is made out of wood, plastic, canvas, die cast metal, or a combination of these materials. Some model aircraft made from wood frames are built by hand.  These models are usually a replica of early aircraft and are painstakingly hand-painted and accurately detailed. 

How can model aircraft be displayed?

There are many options for displaying model aircraft.  Many model aircraft, especially the large models, come with a base for the plane to be displayed on.  Other model aircraft are made to be displayed on a desk or table top without a base. Extremely rare or detailed model aircraft are best kept inside a curio or other display cabinet.  Regardless of how they are designed to be displayed, many model aircraft can be hung from the ceiling to simulate flying. 

Do I need to assemble any parts before displaying my model aircraft?

Some model aircraft will require assembling certain fragile parts, such as propellers, guns, or other ammunition before you display them. This kind of assembly is often quite easy and can be accomplished without any type of glue.  

What is an undecorated model aircraft?
 
Undecorated model aircraft are made solely of wood and have a specialized appeal.  Models like this are hand-carved to display the basic shape or interpretation of a prototype airplane.  Finished with a high gloss and usually given only black window details, these models are truly striking. Undecorated model aircraft let the beauty of the finished wood enhance the shape of the plane.

How are model aircraft sized?

Model aircraft are available in many sizes.  Models vary from small plastic planes to large model aircraft measuring nearly 5 feet long. While it is not the norm, some model aircraft are built to scale.  "Scale" refers to the size of the model in relation to the original.  A 1/32nd scale model is 1/32nd the size of the original plane.  For example, if the prototype airplane has a 32-foot wingspan, then the model will have a 1-foot wingspan. Most often, however, model planes are not built to any particular scale.

How are model aircraft priced?

The price of a model aircraft is based on the size of the model, the material it is made of, and the amount of detailing it has.  The highest quality and most expensive models will almost always have the highest amount of details.

How are model aircraft decorated?
 
Decoration style usually depends on the type of model aircraft.  Hand-made wood models or wooden frame models are usually painted with the greatest detail.  Metal and plastic models usually feature some type of adhesive stick-on decals, in addition to the paint or colored plastic.

How do I care for my model aircraft?
 
Most aircraft models are essentially maintenance-free.  Simply dust it off periodically with a soft cloth or duster. Also, make sure to display your model in a safe environment, so it can't get knocked over.  If the model is made of wood and you would like to add a shine to it, rub a light coating of liquid Turtle wax on it.

How should I handle my model aircraft?

If you need to handle your model aircraft, ALWAYS pick it up by the fuselage or display base. Never pick it up by the wings, horizontal stabilizer, or rudder.

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